Austrian Airlines has confirmed its entire long-haul fleet will be given new, modern Economy Class seats and an improved in-flight entertainment system.

In Business Class the airline will introduce innovative seats which can be transformed into full-flat beds.

The entire interior design of the aircraft is also being given a new visual, as Austrian Airlines reworks the colour concept of its cabins.

“We are investing over €90 million,” said Austrian Airlines chief executive Jaan Albrecht

“I view that as an important investment in the future of Austrian Airlines.

“The software, the warm and charming service we offer on board, has always been unique.

“When it came to the hardware, however, there was clearly room for improvement.

“Now, both software and hardware match up to our high standards.”

Around 1.1 million customers travel long-haul with Austrian Airlines every year, on some 5,500 flights.

“The conversion of the long-haul fleet is an important milestone in a series of measures being taken to improve our product and quality,” added Austrian Airlines chief operating officer Karsten Benz.

“In 2011, Austrian Airlines incorporated the new Europa cabin into its medium-haul aircraft of the Boeing and Airbus types.

“By the end of the first quarter of 2013, all the cabins on the carrier’s Dash and Fokker aircraft will have been given a face-lift.

“These will also be given leather seats, and adjusted to match the visual design of the medium-haul cabin.

“Another product innovation was the opening of the Austrian Star Alliance Terminal, with its six new lounges, in June 2012, followed by the introduction of the new catering concept, with à la carte menus by DO&CO, also in June 2012.

The conversion of a long-haul aircraft takes around six weeks per aircraft.

The first converted aircraft should take off before the end of this year.

Conversion of the fleet as a whole will then take place on a step-by-step basis in the winter of 2012/2013, and should be complete in spring next year.