Yesterday marked exactly 100 years since the founding of Deutsche Luft Hansa on 6 January 1926, and Lufthansa, Germany’s flagship carrier, launched a spectacular year of commemorations under the motto “We are the Journey“.
The airline, which traces its roots to that historic merger in Berlin, is celebrating not only a century of innovation and global connectivity but also reflecting on its complex past while looking boldly to the future of sustainable aviation.
At the heart of the festivities is the unveiling of a special anniversary fleet. Six aircraft from key sub-fleets – including an Airbus A380, Airbus A350-1000, Airbus A350-900, Airbus A320 family member, Boeing 747-8, and Boeing 787-9 – will sport a striking new livery featuring an enlarged white crane emblem merging into the wings against a deep blue fuselage. Prominent “100” markings and the dates “1926 / 2026” adorn the sides, with the emblem also visible from below. Leading the fleet is the newly delivered Boeing 787-9 named “Berlin”, which entered service earlier this year as the first flying ambassador.
Two additional aircraft will feature retro liveries honouring the airline’s heritage designs. The full fleet is expected to be complete by autumn 2026, turning routes worldwide into moving tributes to Lufthansa’s legacy.
Throughout the year, passengers will encounter the centenary in everyday touches: a special “100 Years of Lufthansa” logo on boarding passes, enhanced onboard services, and anniversary branding at airports and in city centres across Germany and beyond.
Cultural and historical elements form a significant part of the programme. A permanent exhibition opens at the newly completed Hangar One visitor centre adjacent to Frankfurt Airport, showcasing vintage aircraft, archival materials, and interactive displays on Lufthansa’s evolution. Additional highlights include the publication of a comprehensive history book, documentary films and video productions, and a series of special events for employees and customers. Billboard campaigns in major cities will share iconic stories from the airline’s past.
Lufthansa is also using the milestone for honest reflection, particularly on its role during the Nazi era, committing to further historical research and transparent examination of that dark chapter.
As the airline enters its second century, the celebrations emphasise shared journeys – of its 40,000 employees from 122 nations, loyal passengers, and the broader Lufthansa Group workforce of around 100,000. With a focus on sustainability, fleet modernisation, and premium experiences, Lufthansa affirms its position as a pioneer connecting people, cultures, and economies.
The centenary year promises to be a fitting tribute to one of aviation’s most enduring brands.
Lufthansa shared in a written statement “We are proud of our tradition and our values, and we look forward to continuing our great history.”
