Lufthansa to centralise key functions, raising concerns over SWISS autonomy

According to an internal paper leaked to the newspaper Handelsblatt, the Lufthansa Group is planning a sweeping reorganisation from 2026, shifting key responsibilities such as network planning, sales, and loyalty programmes to its Frankfurt headquarters under the project “Matrix Next Level.” Subsidiaries like SWISS would retain focus on onboard products and services but lose authority over strategic decisions.

Lufthansa Group CEO Carsten Spohr argues the move will boost efficiency, profitability, and customer satisfaction across the Group, while critics warn that airlines risk becoming mere “production platforms” without real decision-making power.

SWISS, a key profit driver within the Group, stresses that it will remain a “strong airline” with influence in committees and autonomy over its service offering. The airline also highlights the benefits of Group synergies, which enable investments of around CHF 1 billion annually.

A final decision on the restructuring is expected in September.