The centenary highlights both the historical significance of Lufthansa and its role in shaping international aviation over the past century, connecting people, cultures, and economies while driving innovation in air travel.

The airline’s origins trace back to the merger of Junkers Luftverkehr and Deutsche Aero Lloyd, a consolidation that formed the first Lufthansa and laid the groundwork for a long-standing presence in global aviation. This early chapter established the foundation for an international success story that continues even today.

Between 1926 and 1934, the Luft Hansa fleet included over 40 Junkers F13 aircraft. Photo: Lufthansa.

Lufthansa’s history, however, has been marked by periods of disruption and renewal. The airline faced significant challenges, including interruptions to operations and multiple new beginnings, reflecting a trajectory shaped by resilience and continual adaptation.

A Dark Chapter

The most controversial period in Lufthansa’s history occurred during the Nazi era, when the airline became part of the regime and played an active role within it.

As part of its centenary observances, Lufthansa is using the anniversary to critically examine its involvement during this time, drawing on historical research. The company has stated that its reflection on history encompasses not only the post-war years but also the period from its original founding to the collapse of the first Lufthansa.

Senator service in the first class cabin of a Lufthansa Boeing 707 (around 1965). Photo: Lufthansa.

“Second Lufthansa”

A new era began in 1953 with the re-establishment of what is referred to as the “second Lufthansa,” creating the legal foundation of today’s airline. This phase marked another pioneering effort, as the company sought to rebuild following the war. Flight operations resumed in 1955, launching the journey of the newly formed Deutsche Lufthansa AG.

As Lufthansa approaches its 100th year, the anniversary serves as a moment of reflection on its complex history and a bold transition into its second century of operations.

Lufthansa celebrates a significant anniversary with customers, fans, and employees under the motto “We are the Journey.” Photo: Lufthansa.

"We are the Journey"

The centenary celebrations will take place under the motto “We are the Journey,” reflecting the shared experience of employees, passengers, and long-time fans of the Lufthansa brand. Since its first flight a century ago, the airline has not only built its own legacy but has also played a significant role in shaping the development of global aviation.

The anniversary also recognises the passengers who have travelled with Lufthansa through decades of change, disruption, and progress. Their continued loyalty and trust are described as central to the airline’s long-term success, with the milestone serving as a gesture of appreciation to those who have been part of its evolution.

Employees are a central focus of the centenary. Since its founding, Lufthansa’s workforce has been linked by what the company describes as a shared spirit of pioneering ambition, a passion for aviation, and a commitment to high standards. Today, around 40,000 people from 122 nationalities work for the Lufthansa brand, while the wider Lufthansa Group employs approximately 100,000 people representing more than 160 nationalities.

Lufthansa stewardess uniform from 1970 to 1979. Photo: Lufthansa.

Centenary Year to Feature Exhibitions, Events, and Special Campaigns

Throughout the anniversary year in 2026, Lufthansa will roll out a wide range of activities and initiatives. Main highlights include a permanent exhibition at the Lufthansa Group’s Hangar One, a series of special events, the release of a history book, as well as film and video productions. The programme also includes employee celebrations, customer-focused events, and a range of marketing and product campaigns.

From January, the anniversary will be visible across multiple customer touchpoints. A dedicated “100 Years of Lufthansa” emblem will appear on boarding passes, at airports, and onboard Lufthansa flights. Beyond aviation hubs, the airline’s history will also be showcased through poster campaigns in city centres, using iconic imagery and messaging to trace the brand’s evolution.

Special Anniversary Liveries Take to the Skies

One of the most prominent features of the centenary celebrations will be a dedicated anniversary fleet. Across the core Lufthansa brand, key sub-fleets will each feature one aircraft painted in a special 100-year livery. In total, the Lufthansa anniversary fleet comprises six aircraft: an Airbus A380, an Airbus A350-1000, an Airbus A350-900, an Airbus A320, and a Boeing 747-8.

Boeing 787-9; flight from Charleston to Everett on Nov 17, 2025; D-ABPU; Berlin. Photo: Lufthansa.

At the forefront of this fleet is a Boeing 787-9 named Berlin. The aircraft was delivered from Boeing’s production facility in Washington State, USA, to Germany shortly before Christmas and has since arrived at its new home base in Frankfurt. Registered as D-ABPU, the aircraft is expected to enter scheduled service in the near future.

In addition to the anniversary designs, two aircraft will feature retro liveries. These designs are intended to blend tradition with progress, positioning each aircraft as a flying representative of the Lufthansa brand. Central to both the historic and modern designs is the crane emblem, originally created by Otto Firle in 1918, which continues to serve as Lufthansa’s global symbol.