Emirates appears to offer a more comprehensive and comfortable flying experience with better on-time performance, detailed seat information, extensive in-flight entertainment, and luxurious services. However, Lufthansa offers 'Flex' tickets with free changes or cancellations and is part of the Star Alliance, providing a wide route network.
| Attribute | Lufthansa | Emirates |
|---|---|---|
| On-time performance | 66.26% in 2022 | 81.13% in 2022 |
| Carry-on baggage allowance | Economy and Premium Economy: one item up to 8kg; Business and First Class: two items, each up to 8kg | Economy - one piece (55 x 38 x 20cm, max 7kg); First/Business - two pieces: one briefcase (45 x 35 x 20cm) plus one handbag (55 x 38 x 20cm) or garment bag (20cm thick), max 7kg each |
| Checked baggage (Intercontinental) | Economy Light: no free checked bag; Economy: 1 free (23kg); Premium Economy: 2 free (23kg each); Business: 2 free (32kg each); First: 3 free (32kg each) | To/from North and South America - Economy (max 50 lb/23 kg), Business/First (max 70 lb/32 kg), max 10 items |
| Excess baggage fee | Vary depending on route and booking method. Online fees for the first checked bag on Economy Light fares: $20 for domestic, $35 within Europe, and $75 for intercontinental flights. Excess baggage fees apply for overweight or oversized bags. | $200 per bag |
| In-flight entertainment | Movies, TV shows, music, audiobooks, podcasts, and games. Access to around 45 German and English-language magazines free via the FlyNet Wi-Fi portal. Live match updates were available during the European Football Championship. | ice system with up to 6,500 channels of movies, TV shows, music, and games. Playlist creation and syncing. WiFi available for purchase. |
| Seat comfort and legroom | Not available | Economy: Up to 33-inch pitch, 6-inch recline, 17.05-inch width (Boeing 777), 18-inch width (Airbus A380). Premium Economy: 40-inch pitch, 19.5-inch width. |
| Food and beverage quality | Variety of meals, including options for special dietary needs. Special meals can be pre-ordered up to 24 hours before the flight. | Global dishes made with quality ingredients, children's meals, food for babies, extra snacks and chocolates on longer journeys. |
| Customer service responsiveness | Not available | Aims to acknowledge written complaints within 30 days and send a substantive response within 60 days. |
| Cabin cleanliness and maintenance | Not available | Enhanced cleaning and disinfection, HEPA cabin air filters. |
| Frequent flyer program | Miles & More program allows earning miles on flights and with partners. Miles can be redeemed for upgrades, free flights, hotels, and more. Elite status tiers include Frequent Traveller, Senator, and HON Circle, offering benefits like lounge access, priority check-in, and extra baggage allowance. | Emirates Skywards: miles accumulation, upgrades, lounge access, extra baggage allowance. |
| Route network and destinations | Part of the Lufthansa Group, partnering with Star Alliance. | Over 3,000 flights weekly across 137 destinations in 77 countries from Dubai. |
| Ticket change and cancellation policies | 'Flex' tickets allow free changes or cancellations. Refunds depend on fare conditions. A 24-hour cancellation policy may apply for flights to/from the US. | Varies by fare type and time before departure. Free cancellation within 24 hours of booking if the flight is at least 7 days away. Flex and Flex Plus fares usually have free or reduced change fees, while Saver and Special fares may include cancellation penalties. |
| Overall value for money | Not available | Known for luxurious in-flight services. |
| Aircraft age and condition | Not available | Operates Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft. |