German airline Lufthansa has decided to make its Indian destinations among the first in Asia to launch its new product.

From October 31, first-class passengers flying in its Boeing 747 to Mumbai and Delhi are not only being provided a “real” mattress for a good night's rest in the newly done up first class cabin, but the airline has even halved the number of seats to eight in its first-class to offer greater privacy and comfort.

Stretching the comfort level across the aircraft, Lufthansa's economy class now has seats that offer up to seven centimetres of additional personal space and legroom.

“This is part of a most important refurbishment exercise that was started by the airline to upgrade its products in all classes.

On the India route, the upgraded first and economy class product is now available and we hope to offer a more upgraded product from early next year,” said Mr Axel Hilgers, South-Asia Director, Lufthansa.

On the same day, Hong Kong-based Cathay Pacific introduced a first-class cabin on the Mumbai-Hong Kong flight. Cathay's first-class comes with seats which can be used as arm chairs, chair lounges or extra long and wide beds.

The airline claims that the bed is one of the longest provided by any commercial airline.

Said Mr Rakesh Raicar, Sales and Marketing Manager-India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Cathay Pacific, “India has a growing luxury segment and the first class will provide them with the ultimate travel experience.”

HBL