In the coming weeks, the iconic Junkers Ju 52, fondly called “Aunt Ju,” will relocate to the Lufthansa Group Conference and Visitor Center in Frankfurt.
This historic aircraft, owned by the Deutsche Lufthansa Berlin Stiftung (DLBS), was recently farewelled at Paderborn-Lippstadt Airport.
There, since 2020, the Quax Association meticulously restored it. From 2026, just in time for Lufthansa’s 100th anniversary, the Ju 52 will be showcased in Frankfurt.
At its new location, the historic trimotor aircraft will continue to delight aviation fans, employees, and visitors.
Departure from Paderborn
A heartfelt ceremony in Paderborn marked the aircraft’s departure. The Lufthansa Group expressed gratitude to the Quax Association and Paderborn Airport for their years of support in maintaining not only the Ju 52 but also the Lockheed Super Star.
The Quax Association will continue caring for two other DLBS aircraft in Paderborn: a Dornier Do 27 and a Messerschmitt Bf 108.
Wolfgang von Richthofen, Project Manager of the Lufthansa Group Conference and Visitor Center, shared his excitement. “The Ju 52 preserves Lufthansa’s and aviation’s rich history. As a key exhibit in our new visitor center, it will captivate customers, staff, and aviation enthusiasts alike.”
Werner Knorr, CEO of DLBS, added, “Leaving Paderborn isn’t goodbye. It’s the start of a new chapter for the Ju 52, celebrating its vital role in aviation history.”
The Legacy of the Junkers Ju 52
The Junkers Ju 52 holds a special place in Lufthansa’s story. Introduced in the 1930s, it became an aviation icon.
Joining Lufthansa’s fleet in 1932, the Ju 52 made up nearly half of the airline’s aircraft. Its reliability and cost-effectiveness made it a cornerstone of operations.
Originally a single-engine aircraft, it evolved into a sturdy three-engine model known for its durability and easy maintenance.
Today, it stands as a symbol of aviation’s early days and Lufthansa’s enduring legacy.
A New Hub for Aviation Enthusiasts
In 2024, Lufthansa began building its state-of-the-art Conference and Visitor Center near the Lufthansa Aviation Center (LAC) at Frankfurt Airport.
This modern facility will serve as a hub for collaboration, welcoming employees, customers, business partners, and aviation lovers. It will highlight Lufthansa’s innovative spirit while honoring its past.
The center’s star attractions will be two restored aircraft: the Junkers Ju 52 (D-AQUI) and the legendary Lockheed Super Star (D-ALAN), currently being repainted at Münster-Osnabrück Airport.
A large transparent façade will let visitors admire both planes from afar. Inside, an open gallery will display rare Lufthansa artifacts, many shown publicly for the first time.
Like Lufthansa’s Seeheim training and conference hotel, the new center will host external events. Guests can also enjoy a cozy coffee lounge with culinary offerings, making it a perfect spot for aviation enthusiasts to soak in history and innovation.
Looking Ahead
The Ju 52’s move to Frankfurt marks a milestone in preserving Lufthansa’s heritage. As the Lufthansa Group Conference and Visitor Center opens in 2026, it will offer a unique blend of history, innovation, and hospitality.
Visitors can explore the Ju 52, the Lockheed Super Star, and other exhibits, connecting with aviation’s past and future. This new chapter ensures the iconic “Aunt Ju” continues to inspire for generations to come.
