The era is coming to a close. Lufthansa will retire Airbus A340-600 after the summer schedule — marking the end of a remarkable chapter in long-haul aviation.
In this exclusive behind-the-scenes documentary, I take you inside the final base maintenance check of Lufthansa’s A340-600 at Lufthansa Technik in Manila, Philippines — where over 3,200 engineers and technicians work across 8 massive maintenance bays capable of handling aircraft up to the A380.
This is a rare look at what it takes to keep a long-haul aircraft flying — and how it is prepared for its final return to service.
What you’ll see in this video:
- Full cabin walk during C1 maintenance check, including crew rest & lower deck toilet areas
- Inside the E/E bay beneath the cockpit — the aircraft’s electronic nerve center
- Hydraulic system testing (Green, Blue & Yellow systems) from the cockpit
- Up-close access inside the Rolls-Royce Trent 500 engine nacelle
- Landing gear inspection, fault discovery, and structural repair
- Landing gear swing test before the aircraft comes off the jacks
- Engine run procedure with all four engines operating
After 44 days in base maintenance, the aircraft is finally cleared to return to the skies. But this video is more than just about the aircraft. It is a tribute —not only to the A340-600…but to the people who kept it flying.
To the engineers, technicians, and teams behind the scenes — thank you for your skill, your dedication, and your commitment to safety.
Footage: Lufthansa Technik Philippines 18:44-22:16
