The iconic Junkers Ju-52 of the Lufthansa Berlin Stiftung can now be admired at the Lufthansa Group's conference and visitors center at Frankfurt Airport. Visible from the outside, the aircraft is a striking eye-catcher for aviation enthusiasts.

"Tante Ju," as the aircraft is affectionately known, recently underwent restoration at Paderborn-Lippstadt Airport. Because the Ju-52 is no longer airworthy, it was transported to Frankfurt by low-loader. The relocation coincides with Lufthansa's 100th anniversary. The airline emphasizes the importance of preserving historical aviation heritage. In the visitors center, the Ju-52 s tands next to a Lockheed Super Star. Both aircraft will be officially displayed starting in 2026.

The Ju-52 was delivered to Lufthansa approximately ninety years ago, directly from the factory in Dessau. In the following years, the aircraft was used in Germany and Norway. Between 1957 and 1963, it flew in Ecuador, after which it was shipped to the United States in 1969 to participate in air shows.

The Lufthansa Berlin Foundation later adopted the aircraft into its fleet and kept it operational for sightseeing flights for many years. However, the program was terminated in 2019 after Lufthansa withdrew its funding. A fatal accident involving a JU-Air Ju-52 over the Alps also played a role in the decision to discontinue flights.

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* Origin: AVIATION ECHO HQ (2:292/854)