FRANKFURT — Lufthansa has introduced a special centennial aircraft livery as part of its 100th anniversary celebrations in 2026, applying the commemorative design across multiple aircraft types operating from Frankfurt Airport.
The German flag carrier has already rolled out the anniversary paint scheme on five aircraft spanning both narrowbody and widebody segments of its fleet. The initiative is part of a broader campaign highlighting Lufthansa’s century-long presence in the aviation industry while showcasing the airline’s modern aircraft operating across Europe and on long-haul routes.
The specially painted aircraft will operate across the airline’s global network throughout the anniversary year, allowing passengers and aviation enthusiasts worldwide to see the commemorative design.
Centennial Fleet
Lufthansa has introduced the anniversary livery on five aircraft representing key parts of its fleet and route network.
The aircraft types include the Boeing 747-8, Boeing 787-9, Airbus A320neo, Airbus A350-900, and Airbus A380.
Each aircraft carries a unique registration and represents a key operational group within Lufthansa’s network.
The Boeing 747-8 registered as D-ABYN was among the first aircraft to receive the special design. The jet is one of Lufthansa’s flagship aircraft and primarily operates long-haul routes.
Shortly after delivery, a Boeing 787-9 registered as D-ABPU also joined the fleet wearing the anniversary colors.
The airline also painted an Airbus A320neo registered D-AING, an Airbus A350-900 registered D-AIXL, and an Airbus A380 registered D-AIMH in the same commemorative scheme.
Lufthansa expects to expand the centennial fleet later this year. The airline plans to take delivery of a new Airbus A350-1000, which will also feature the anniversary livery, bringing the total to six aircraft.
Crane-Inspired Design
The anniversary paint scheme prominently features Lufthansa’s iconic crane logo, a symbol long associated with the airline’s brand identity.
The crane emblem was originally designed in 1918 by German graphic artist Otto Firle and has since become one of the most recognizable airline logos in the world.
The centennial design incorporates a deep blue fuselage paired with a large white crane graphic positioned along the aircraft’s body. The visual concept blends the crane’s wings with the aircraft’s actual wings, creating the appearance that the logo is part of the aircraft structure.
In addition to the crane motif, the aircraft feature the number “100” on the left side of the fuselage to mark Lufthansa’s centennial milestone.
On the opposite side, the aircraft display the dates “1926 / 2026,” referencing the period between the founding of the original airline and its 100th anniversary.
Each aircraft also carries a stylized “100” logo on its underside, ensuring the anniversary branding remains visible during flight operations and aircraft photography.
A Century of Lufthansa
The centennial celebration represents a historic milestone for Lufthansa, whose origins trace back to the founding of Deutsche Luft Hansa in 1926.
Over the past century, the airline has grown into one of Europe’s largest aviation groups and a major player in global air travel.
By placing the special livery on multiple aircraft types, Lufthansa aims to reflect both its heritage and the diversity of its modern fleet.
Industry observers note that the design appears especially striking on the Boeing 747-8, whose distinctive upper deck provides a large canvas for the crane artwork.
With the centennial aircraft scheduled to operate on routes across the airline’s network throughout the year, Lufthansa’s anniversary branding is expected to become a visible symbol of the airline’s 100-year journey in aviation.
