Overview
- Lufthansa confirmed the sale of two 747-8s, and a U.S. Air Force spokesperson said the service is paying about $400 million for the pair.
- The aircraft, identified as D-ABYD and D-ABYG, will be used first for pilot training and later as parts donors for the presidential fleet.
- One jet has been withdrawn from Lufthansa service for delivery in January 2026, with the second scheduled to transfer around October 2026.
- The acquisition responds to delays in Boeing’s VC-25B program and the end of 747-8 passenger production, which tighten the supply of suitable airframes and components.
- The sale reduces Lufthansa’s 747-8 fleet from 19 to 17 and yields proceeds far above typical market appraisals of roughly $40–50 million per aircraft.