Overview
Lufthansa is marking a historic milestone as it celebrates 100 years since its first scheduled flights took off from Berlin, highlighting a century of aviation progress and innovation.
The Historic Beginning
The origins of Lufthansa date back to 6 April 1926, when the first flights of its predecessor airline departed from Berlin.
- One aircraft flew from Berlin to Zurich
- Another travelled from Berlin to Cologne
- These flights marked the beginning of scheduled commercial aviation in Germany
At the time, the journeys were modest, with only a few passengers onboard.
Centenary Celebrations in 2026
To commemorate the 100 year anniversary, Lufthansa organised special events and flights on the exact same date in 2026.
- Two modern aircraft recreated the historic routes
- A Boeing 787 flew from Berlin to Zurich
- An Airbus A350 travelled from Berlin to Cologne
These flights symbolically retraced the original journeys, though without stopovers, using today’s advanced aviation technology.
Major Event in Berlin
A large scale celebration took place at Berlin Brandenburg Airport:
- More than 600 guests attended the event
- Aviation enthusiasts and spectators gathered to watch the flights
- The parallel departure of both aircraft recreated the historic moment
The event brought together industry leaders, employees and media to honour Lufthansa’s legacy.
Then and Now
The contrast between 1926 and 2026 highlights the evolution of aviation:
- Early flights used small aircraft with very few passengers
- Modern flights carry hundreds of passengers across long distances
- Technology, safety and comfort have significantly improved over the century
This transformation reflects the rapid growth of global air travel.
Significance of the Milestone
Lufthansa’s centenary is not just about history, but also about its role in shaping modern aviation.
The airline has grown into one of Europe’s largest carriers, connecting continents and playing a key role in international travel.
Conclusion
The 100 year celebration of Lufthansa’s first flights from Berlin serves as a reminder of how far aviation has come. By recreating its original routes, the airline honoured its past while showcasing the advancements that define modern air travel.
