COLOGNE- Lufthansa (LH) is preparing a full centennial livery program ahead of its 100th anniversary, with the first Boeing 787-9 set to arrive at Frankfurt Airport (FRA). The airline is introducing a unified anniversary design across several major aircraft types.
The 2026 project expands far beyond the initial 787 plan. Multiple fleets will carry the blue fuselage, white crane motif, and 100-year markings as part of a company-wide celebration.
Lufthansa 100th Anniversary Livery
Lufthansa confirmed that its leading aircraft families will receive the commemorative design. The concept centers on a blue fuselage paired with a white crane whose wings blend visually into the aircraft’s wings. This layout builds on the original crane emblem created by Otto Firle in 1918, which has served as the airline’s defining symbol.
The design incorporates the numerals 100 on the left side of the fuselage, while the right side displays 1926 / 2026. A 100 emblem is also applied to the underside of each aircraft. The intent is to create a consistent, brand-wide visual tribute throughout the anniversary year.
The fleet rollout includes the Airbus A320, Airbus A350, Airbus A380, Boeing 747, and Boeing 787. The Airbus A330 and Airbus A340 will not receive the livery since both types are being phased out. Lufthansa expects the full set of aircraft to be completed by fall 2026.
The Boeing 787-9 Berlin Leads the Program
The first aircraft in the series is the Boeing 787-9 Berlin, registration D-ABPU. The aircraft received its special livery at Boeing’s Charleston facility before being moved to Everett for final preparations.
It is scheduled to arrive at Frankfurt shortly before Christmas and is expected to enter scheduled service in January.
This 787-9 serves as the official leader of the centennial fleet. Its blue fuselage, integrated crane wings, and anniversary markings signal the launch of the most extensive livery initiative Lufthansa has produced in recent decades.
Flagship Types Set for High-Visibility Impact
The Boeing 747-8 and Airbus A380 are expected to generate significant attention due to their size and profile.
The 747-8, often viewed as the airline’s most iconic aircraft, will present the design on one of the most recognizable silhouettes in aviation. The A380, although visually less distinct, will stand out due to the scale of its surface area and its presence on major long-haul routes.
With several flagship aircraft participating, Lufthansa aims to showcase the centennial concept across a wide global network. Each aircraft will act as a mobile tribute to the airline’s history and visual identity.
Delivery Timeline Toward Fall 2026 Completion
Lufthansa will introduce each livery sequentially as aircraft rotate through scheduled maintenance and paint facilities.
The phased approach ensures operational stability while building momentum toward the full centennial celebration in 2026.
The airline expects all designated aircraft to be painted and flying regular routes by the start of the fall travel season in 2026. Once in service, the centennial fleet will act as a global branding statement throughout the anniversary period.
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