In an exclusive partnership, Lufthansa Group and Viking Cruises have teamed up to offer Viking customers direct, non-stop flights from the New York City area to Malta. Commencing on Wednesday, July 30, flights will operate up to three times per week with Lufthansa’s flagship, twin-engine aircraft – the Airbus A350-900 from Newark International Airport to the Mediterranean island. Viking guests originating outside of New York City Area will have seamless connection experience to Malta on Lufthansa flights from its various US gateways as well as with Star Alliance partner, United Airlines.
“Lufthansa Group’s teaming up with Viking Cruises made complete sense because of the long-lasting relationship the two companies have and the high level of service and quality they both offer,” said Frank Naeve, Vice President Sales, The Americas, Lufthansa Group. “As pent-up demand for international travel ramps up, the Lufthansa Group stands prepared to cater to its American customers with an ever-expanding network of destinations and products., including these direct flights to Malta, exclusively for Viking,”
Lufthansa’s exclusive flights for Viking guests will operate between June 30th and October 14th operating under the flight number of LH 489 and LH 488 for the return flights to Newark Airport.
Onboard the A350-900 The A350-900 is one of the world's most advanced, environmentally friendly long-haul aircraft. It uses 25 percent less kerosene, produces 25 percent fewer emissions and is significantly quieter on take-off. Lufthansa’s A350-900s, part of the airline’s 5-Star offering, seat 293 passengers in a three class configuration with 48 seats in Business Class, 21 in Premium Economy and 224 in Economy Class. At just under 18.4 feet wide, the cabin is more spacious than comparable models of aircraft currently in operation.
Due to the aircraft’s particular construction, passengers reach their destination feeling better rested. This is achieved through improved cabin pressure during the flight, as well as a novel LED lighting system that adjusts with the day and nighttime rhythm of the passengers.
Lufthansa hygiene concept On Lufthansa Group flights, passengers are required to wear a protective medical mask— either a surgical mask or an FFP2 mask, or mask with the KN95/N95 standard, during boarding, the flight and when leaving the aircraft. An exemption from the obligation to wear a mouth-nose mask during the flight is only possible for medical reasons, if the medical certificate is issued on a form provided by Lufthansa Group and a negative Covid19 test, not older than 48 hours at the scheduled start of the journey, is available.
As studies and reports have indicated, infection on board is highly unlikely. All Lufthansa Group aircraft are equipped with the highest quality air filters, which ensure an air quality similar to that in an operating room. In addition, the air circulates vertically instead of dispersed throughout the cabin.
