Lufthansa’s NEW business class seats are ready, but cannot be occupied because US federal shutdown has delayed FAA certification

Lufthansa has accepted six Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners with Allegris cabins but 85pc of business class seats remain blocked pending FAA certification, which has been affected by the US Federal government shutdown.

The US government shutdown since 1 October halts FAA staff needed for final seat approvals with only front-row suites certified so far.

Allegris Dreamliners operate to Toronto since 9 October with routes to Hyderabad, Bogotá, Rio de Janeiro, and Austin planned.

Lufthansa expects nine more Dreamliners by year-end and operates flights to train pilots despite blocked seats. Delays may extend to Boeing 777X certification with first deliveries now in 2027.

Carsten Spohr shared “The shutdown means that FAA employees who we need for certifications and licensing do not show up for duty at this time, which may result in further minor delays.”