To catch our Qatar Airways flights to Cape Town, my girlfriend and I first needed to get from New York to Oslo. In the days leading up to our trip I searched frantically for Lufthansa First Class award space. In fact, I wrote an entire post about booking this flight here.
Thankfully, the day before our departure I managed to find and book two seats in Lufthansa First Class with Avianca LifeMiles. The cost was just 82,890 LifeMiles and $40 for each ticket. This represents considerable value considering the cost of each seat was just over $12,000!
I still can’t believe I managed to find available award space. After finding the seats I was relieved that I had finally finished re-booking our entire trip. The only thing I had to do now was to pack, go to bed early, and catch my flight from Chicago to Newark the next morning. Needless to say, this would be an absolutely fantastic way to start our trip to Cape Town.
Also, I should mention that this flight was a complete surprise for my girlfriend. See, I told her that because of the last minute changes we were going to be flying in economy class on Lufthansa to get to Oslo. She had no idea that I actually managed to book Lufthansa First Class. So now the real challenge was to keep it all a secret until we boarded the flight to Frankfurt!
I’ve reviewed Lufthansa First Class twice before. Once from Frankfurt to Newark and once from Chicago to Frankfurt. Both of those prior reviews will go into a bit more detail about the cabin and seat. Therefore, for this review, I’ll focus mostly on the flight and transfer process in Frankfurt.
A Slight Complication Before Departure
At 3AM in the morning of our scheduled departure I received a text from Lufthansa. The text from Lufthansa stated “Your flight LH403 EWR-FRA 07Feb 18:20 is delayed. New: 07Feb 22:55. Please accept our apologies.” This simple text meant that we would miss our connecting flight to Oslo and ultimately miss our connecting flight to Cape Town. This delay could have jeopardized our entire trip. Also, since we were traveling on several different itineraries, the airlines would not protect our flights. This meant that we would have been on the hook for any no-show or change fees that could have resulted from a previous delay.
Since the text woke me up I decided to act quickly and immediately called Lufthansa customer service. A Lufthansa phone agent answered immediately and I frantically explained the situation. I mentioned that I previously saw 2 seats still available of LH401 out of New York’s JFK airport that I’d like to switch to. The phone agent managed to change our flights in just over a minute at no additional charge. She also confirmed us on a new flight from Frankfurt to Oslo. This allowed us to get to Oslo a few hours before our originally scheduled arrival. As I write this, I still can’t believe how easy of a change this turned out to be.
Arriving At New York’s JFK Airport
To start this entire trip I first needed to fly to New York from Chicago to meet my girlfriend. Originally we planned to meet at Newark, but since we changed flights we now had to meet at JFK. This meant that I had to take a cab from Newark to JFK which took just over an hour.
After the long cab ride from Newark I eventually arrived curbside at JFK’s Terminal 1. Lufthansa’s check-in area is located at the far end of the arrivals curb.
Once inside the terminal it was a very short walk to the Lufthansa check-in counters located just inside the terminal.
The Lufthansa First Class check-in counters are located at the far end of the terminal nearest to the security checkpoint.
As we reached the check in counters I told my girlfriend that because she has Star Alliance Gold status (United Platinum), we could use the First Class check in counters. She looked a bit puzzled when I told her this, but didn’t argue. Instead, we proceeded to the First Class check-in lanes and she still had no idea that we were flying in First Class.
Lufthansa First Class JFK Ground Service
When we arrived there were no other passengers in line for First Class check-in. We proceeded directly to the check-in counter and I handed our passports over to the check-in agent. While the agent checked us in I preyed that he would not spoil the surprise.
At this point I had no idea that the agent would also double as our personal handler. He would end up checking us in and escorting us through security, to the lounge, and to the plane. Ultimately our check-in agent became our ground concierge who managed the entire ground experience at JFK. This was an amazing service that we appreciated greatly.
Lufthansa First Class Security Screening
After finalizing the check-in process our ground escort directed us to the private security screening room in JFK’s terminal 1. This small glass enclosed room felt more like a hotel lobby than the line for airport security. It was in this room that we emptied our laptops and liquids into bins for security screening. Once emptied, the bins were carried to the luggage scanner by our ground concierge. He also escorted us to the front of the security line where he presented our boarding passes and passports to the TSA agent.
We were then directed again to the front of the line to pass through the metal detectors. Our concierge made sure our bags went through the x-ray machine in the meantime. On the other side of the security checkpoint our bags were again collected by our ground agent and handed back to us. It was a seamless check in process that set the mood for the entire trip.
At this point my girlfriend began to question what exactly was happening. I reassured her that all of this was because of her Star Alliance Gold elite status. Again, she seemed a bit confused, but didn’t really ask any other questions. Keep in mind I had no idea that Lufthansa offered this personal ground service at JFK.
Lufthansa First Class Lounge JFK Airport
After collecting our carryon bags our Lufthansa ground service concierge directed us to the Lufthansa Lounge just past security. This is the same lounge that I visited during my Japan Airlines First Class flight from JFK to Narita early last year. Because I’ve reviewed the lounge so recently I’ll simply link that review here. For now, I’ll focus on the “First Class” aspect of the Lufthansa Lounge.
Once inside the lounge entrance, the Lufthansa ground agent checked us in and took us directly to the elevator. Until this point, our boarding cards and passports were managed by the Lufthansa agent. It wasn’t until we were in the lounge that our documents were handed back to us. I must say, having someone else worry about your documentation, security, etc. was a very nice touch. Lufthansa really nailed the ground experience, especially for an outstation.
Inside the elevator another guest pressed the “S” button for the Senator Lounge. Then, our representative hit the “P” button for the First Class Wining and Dining floor.
It was at this moment that my girlfriend asked what “P” stood for. She knew she had access to the Senator Lounge because of her status, but still had no idea we were in First Class.
When she asked what the “P” represented the ground agent told her it was the button for Lufthansa’s First Class Wining and Dining area which we had access to because we were flying in First Class. SURPRISE!
Lufthansa First Class Wining and Dining
The First Class Wining and Dining area is located above the Senator Lounge. The dining area is basically a large loft that sits above the rest of the lounge.
You can access this area via the elevator at the entrance to the lounge or by the stairs toward the back of the lounge.
When we entered the wining and dining area of the lounge there were already several passengers seated. I decided to postpone taking photographs of this portion of the lounge as the area is extremely private and I wanted to respect the privacy of the other First Class passengers.
Neither of us were hungry when we arrived at the airport nor did we plan on eating. Instead, we simply enjoyed the wonton amuse bouche while waiting to board our flight.
I also ordered a cappuccino which came with a little rock candy stirrer which I enjoyed.
Both the amuse bouche and cappuccino were excellent. However, given the flight departed at 4PM EST, neither of us were hungry enough for dinner. That being said, if your goal is to maximize sleep on the fairly short Transatlantic hop, then this is an excellent opportunity to eat before your flight. Based on what I saw of the menu, I think it’s safe to say the food in the lounge is as good if not better than anything you’ll find on board the aircraft.
Boarding Our Lufthansa First Class Flight
After spending about 45 minutes in the lounge it was finally time to board our flight to Frankfurt. Similar to the entire check-in process, when it was time to board our flight, our Lufthansa concierge returned to the lounge to escort us to the flight. We again handed over our documents and followed him to our departure gate. We never had to worry about which gate we were departing from, our boarding time, or where we were going. Instead, our Lufthansa ground agent guided us the whole way.
When we arrived at the boarding gate our documents were handed back to us. We then reached the biometric check-in gates. I’ve never experienced biometric boarding before, but it was a very cool process. You simply walked up to the gate, looked into the camera, and were directed to board. We did not have to scan our boarding passes or passports to board the flight. I have to admit, I hope all airlines adopt this in the coming years.
Once through the biometric gates our Lufthansa concierge escorted us down the jet bridge to the L1 boarding door. He then introduced us to the crew who then directed us onto the plane and to our seats.
Lufthansa 747-8i First Class Cabin
Since we were the last two passengers to board, everyone was already seated and situated when we entered the nose of the 747. As always, the First Class cabin was stunning in the afternoon hours at JFK.
For the flight across the Atlantic, we were lucky enough to get seats 3D and 3G. These seats are the only two located directly next to each other toward the rear of the cabin.
The seats sit directly behind the service counter located in the center of the First Class cabin.
This area is home to the pre-departure service items prior to departure, but is also used as a self-service snack station throughout the flight.
These seats are a little less private than those found in row 1, but they were perfect for us since we’d get to sit together.
Shortly after taking our seats the rest of the cabin crew stopped by to introduce themselves.
Pre-Departure Service
We were offered a pre-departure beverage while the various crew members welcomed us to the flight.
We both ordered a glass of Champagne and a glass of water which arrived with a plate of warm nuts.
On flights the originate away from a Lufthansa hub, mixed nuts are served as a pre-departure snack compared to only macadamia nuts on a ex-hub flight.
As we settled into the our seats we were able to admire the stunning forward cabin of the Lufthansa 747-8i.
I have to admit, it’s an incredible experience to fly in the nose of a 747. There’s something so unique in knowing that you are sitting directly beneath, or in some cases in front of, the flight deck. I have to admit, I get a bit sad knowing that the days of the 747 are numbered as more and more airlines opt for more fuel efficient aircraft.
Lufthansa First Class Amenities
Also before takeoff the flight attendants distributed various pre-departure amenities. These included our Rimowa hard case amenity kits. I am happy to see that Lufthansa has returned to these classic amenity kits. The past two times I’ve flow in Lufthansa First Class I received a soft leather pouch which doesn’t feel nearly as premium as the Rimowa case.
Inside the Rimowa amenity kit were the same familiar items: La Prairie lotions, flight socks, ear plugs, a dental kit, and a folding comb/brush.
A short while later the flight attendant returned with Van Laack pajamas which I changed into shortly after takeoff.
A nice blanked was also provided in each of our ottomans prior to our arrival on board. This was the first time I remember receiving an extra blanket when flying First Class with Lufthansa.
Departing New York
The crew closed the boarding doors at exactly our 4:00 PM EST departure time. As we pushed back from the gate we were told to expect an hour taxi to our departure runway. JFK is incredibly busy in the early evening with several departures for various destinations all over the world. Because of this, there is often about a long wait for the departure runway. Thankfully, the time passed by very quickly from the confines of our First Class seats and before we knew it we were airborne above New York.
The climb out of JFK was very smooth and incredibly quiet. Because the nose is so far ahead of the massive jet engines, the forward cabin is very quiet as you climb and are traveling and a relatively slow speed.
Shortly after takeoff we turned left toward the Atlantic and began a steep climb to our cruising altitude. It was at this point that we were reminded again about the short flight time thanks to the very fast moving jet stream. In fact, about 45 minutes after takeoff we reached 35,000 feet and reached a speed of 815 MPH. From then on we slowed to maintain our scheduled arrival time.
Lufthansa First Class Lavatory
Just after takeoff I visited the lavatory to change into my pajamas. Since we were going to be flying for about 24 hours I wanted to keep my regular clothes as clean as possible.
It’s worth noting just how nice Lufthansa’s First Class lavatories are. Of all the airlines I’ve flown, I can’t think of a prettier aircraft lavatory.
Of course, Lufthansa includes a signature First Class rose in a vase located next to the sink.
They also provide passengers with several amenities, such as mouth wash, lotion, misting spay, dental kits, combs, and shave kits.
Additionally, the lavatory on the 747-8i features a window to the outside world which is always welcomed in an aircraft lavatory.
I also discovered that the lavatory features a folding changing table which proves a great place to put things while changing into or out of the provided pajamas.
After changing into my pajamas I returned to my seat to catch the final moments of daylight and prepare for the in-flight meal service.
Lufthansa First Class Menus
When the cabin crew distributed the pajamas and amenity kits dining and wine menus were also handed out.
Inside the food menu was a brief welcome note which welcomed passengers to First Class and introduced the dining experience.
The menu continued with a list of appetizers, mains, and desserts. The second page of the menu included various breakfast items available prior to arrival into Frankfurt.
A full wine menu was also distributed to passengers. This menu listed each of the wines available on the flight and included a brief description of each.
In total there were 8 wines (4 whites and 4 reds) available to First Class passengers. There was also a 2004 Cuvee Louise Champagne, a few aperitifs, and various liquors available.
Overall, the menus were both a bit limited, but that’s to be expected with a flight time of just over 5 hours.
Lufthansa First Class Dinner Service
As the sun set the flight attendants circulated the cabin asking passengers for their meal orders.
As my girlfriend and I did not eat in the lounge we were both getting a bit hungry. We both decided to forego sleep in favor for the complete dinner service which began with an amuse bouche and another glass of Champagne.
Shortly thereafter our flight attendant returned to set our tables for dinner. This included coving the large tray table with a tablecloth and providing a dinner roll along with salt and pepper mills.
Next, the meal service continued with the delivery of the various appetizers and Lufthansa’s signature First Class caviar service.
The appetizers on our flight included a Salmon Tartare dish, a Vitello Tonnato, and Mediterranean Grilled Vegetable Salad.
The Caviar of course came with a side of hard boiled egg whites and yolks, sour cream, chopped onions, and a lemon.
Following the appetizers, I requested the Braised Beef Cheek and grilled Lamp Chop with gnocchi as my entree. This wasn’t the best meal I’ve ever had on an airplane, but I have to admit the entree was quite tasty.
With my entree I also ordered a Konig Ludwig Dunkel beer. I’ve only ever had this beer on Lufthansa First Class and it’s a hit each time.
Shortly after clearing my entree the flight attendant returned with a Viennese Style baked Brioche stuffed with apricot jam. This dessert came served on a bed of vanilla sauce and ice cream. To no one’s surprise, the dessert was excellent.
Also to no one’s surprise, following the meal service it was time for bed as I fell swiftly into a food coma. As the flight attendant cleared my tray table I requested the turn-down service while I visited the lavatory to brush my teeth before bed.
Sleeping Across The Atlantic
When I returned to my seat my bed was prepared and the cabin lights started to dim.
Before long, the overhead lights were dimmed and I tried to fall asleep. This proved difficult at first because the passengers in seats 1A, 1K, and 2K remained awake and chatted for a while. However, once their meals were cleared they turned off their lights and went to bed as well.
I only slept for about 3 hours until the cabin crew began the sunrise lighting sequence. This started with a very dim orange/red glow from the overhead portion of the cabin.
For the next 30 minutes or so the glow grew more intense and other passengers turned on their overhead lights.
After a short while most of the other passengers were awake and upright when the cabin crew announced we would be landing shortly. Then, about 30 minutes later we touched down in Frankfurt in the early morning hours.
Arriving In Frankfurt
Ultimately we landed in Frankfurt at around 5AM after making a few sweeping turns over Germany. After landing we had about a 15 minute taxi to our arrival gate. We exited the aircraft around 5:30AM and entered the empty terminal.
Because our flight to Oslo was moved up we now only had a two hour connection in Frankfurt. That’s not all that much time to begin with, but the layover was especially tight since we wanted to also visit the Lufthansa First Class Terminal.
Visiting The Lufthansa First Class Terminal
In Frankfurt Lufthansa has an entire terminal building dedicated to First Class passengers. This entire terminal doubles as an ultra exclusive First Class lounge for departing passengers. However, the First Class Terminal is also available to connecting First Class passengers even with onward itineraries in economy class. The only catch is that you have to exit the airport and walk to the FCT building when connecting to a Lufthansa flight.
To visit the First Class Terminal we had to clear customs, exit the airport, and walk outside to the FCT building. In total, all of that took just 20 minutes which was surprisingly quick. Before long we were outside in the frosty cold air facing the imposing Lufthansa First Class terminal.
We proceeded into the lower level entrance and rode the elevator to the waiting area on the second floor. We then handed our passports to a Lufthansa First Class Terminal representative who printed out our connecting boarding cards and directed us through security. On the other side of the security checkpoint we entered the stunning Lufthansa First Class terminal.
Lufthansa First Class Terminal Overview
As with the flights, I’ve also reviewed the Lufthansa First Class terminal in detail before. So, for this review, I’ll focus on the areas of the lounge that we visited and the private car transfer to our connecting flight.
The first thing you see when you walk in is the fully stocked bar. I don’t know if I’ve ever seen a bar with more drink options.
As we passed by the bar the bartender offered us a drink, coffee, or simply water. After we ordered we explored the lounge for a minute. When we arrived back to where we left our bags, our drinks we ordered from the bartender were waiting for us.
Exploring The First Class Terminal
We were among the first guests in the Terminal which allowed me to explore areas of the lounge that were previously extremely crowded. For example, I’ve never seen all three of these nap chairs empty before.
It was also odd seeing every single seating area empty. Each time I’ve visited the lounge before most of the seating areas were occupied.
After looking around for a few minutes we quickly made our way to the Lufthansa First Class Terminal’s bath rooms.
These bath rooms include a large soaking bath, but also a shower behind the sink area.
Visiting the bath room was a very welcomed stop after spending nearly a full day of traveling.
Lufthansa First Class Terminal Dining
Following the quick shower, we then visited the dining area of the First Class Terminal. Since we visited early in the morning, the lounge was setup with a very elaborate breakfast buffet.
The dining area also offers a self-service bar area if you wanted to make a morning cocktail.
Perhaps the best part of the dining area was the fresh prosciutto slicer which we took full advantage of.
If we had extra time we could have also opted to sit at a full-service table in the dining area. However, since we didn’t have enough time for a full meal we only grabbed a few items to snack on during the layover (prosciutto included).
After making a small plate each we sat down in one of the open seating areas to eat. Shortly after sitting down a lounge representative found us and informed us that it was time to go to our connecting gate. She then directed us downstairs to a car that was waiting for us.
A Private Porsche Ride To Our Departure Gate
Our primary reason for visiting the First Class Terminal was the private car service to our connecting flight. That’s right, Lufthansa drives First Class Terminal guests to their connecting gate… in a Porsche!
For our short drive to the plane we were put into the back of a beautiful Porsche Cayenne hybrid. We then pulled out of the First Class Terminal onto the airport roadways.
There is just something so unique about seeing aircraft from the inside of a car. Having a private chauffeur drive you to your connecting gate remains the most fun aviation related thing I’ve ever done.
As I mentioned, the drive to our connecting gate was extremely quick as there was no scenic route this time. However, I still managed to do some plane spotting. In fact, as we exited the car I noticed an Airbus A320neo painted in the new Lufthansa livery next to our departure gate.
After pausing for a few photos our driver directed inside and upstairs to the jet bridge connected to the Airbus A320 that would take us to Oslo.
After a quick boarding process we departed Frankfurt just as the sun began to rise.
It was a beautiful sunrise that capped off another excellent experience in Lufthansa First Class.
Final Thoughts
What a fantastic way to start our trip to Cape Town! I am so glad that my girlfriend and I were finally able to enjoy Lufthansa First Class together. She was blown away by the experience and, even though I’ve done it before, so was I. Lufthansa’s First Class experience is just so darn solid. It’s not the flashiest First Class product around, but the entire experience is just so polished.
Even better, I had never experienced such fantastic ground services both in New York and in Frankfurt. On both occasions we simply handed over our passports and the rest was taken care of. We never once had to think about boarding times, gates, or security. Instead, all of that was taken care of for us. All we had to do was remove our laptops and liquids and put them back in our bags on the other side. Everything else was taken care of for us.
As it stands, Lufthansa First Class continues to be my favorite way to use miles. Sure, there are better First Class products out there and better values to be had, but I just love Lufthansa First Class. The entire experience, from the moment you arrive at the airpot to the moment you leave on the other side is so impressive. Also, I absolutely love sitting in the nose of the 747 and know that I’ll only have a few more opportunities to do so in my lifetime.
