Traditional brand German Airways celebrates its 70th anniversary

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German Airways, Germany‘s second-oldest airline, is celebrating a significant anniversary today: Exactly 70 years ago, the Federal Aviation Authority granted the company, then known as Westdeutsche Luftwerbung GmbH (WDL), its second operating license from the Federal Republic of Germany. This milestone marked the beginning of an eventful history at Essen-Mülheim Airport, from which one of Germany‘s most traditional and enduring airlines developed.

The Beginnings – From Aerial Advertising to a Versatile Service Society

WDL was founded by visionary founder Theodor Wüllenkemper. Initially, the company focused on banner flights and other forms of aerial advertising—a niche market in which it quickly established a reputation. The portfolio was gradually expanded in the first decades. In addition to company flights, WDL soon began handling special medical transports, which, due to their sensitivity, placed high demands on reliability and speed.

Freight orders for global logistics companies also became part of the offering. This diversity contributed to the continuous modernization and adaptation of the fleet. Legendary aircraft such as the Learjet dominated the scene, as did robust Fokker F-27 turboprops.

Change and Growth – From WDL Flugdienst to German Airways

In 1974, the company underwent a significant name change to WDL Flugdienst, later known as WDL Aviation. Under this name, the company steadily expanded its range of services and established itself as a reliable partner in national and international air transport.

Another turning point became apparent in October 2017: A comprehensive modernization effort not only led to the renewal of the fleet but also to the repositioning of the company under the German Airways brand. At the same time, the airline joined the International Air Transport Association (IATA), a key global industry association – a sign of its growing importance at the European level.

Today: Most modern regional airline with a diverse service portfolio

Today, German Airways operates a modern Embraer E190 fleet, allowing it to respond flexibly to changing customer requirements. Its services extend across Europe to include charter and wet-lease services; the latter means German Airways operates flights on behalf of major flag carriers, thus supplementing their capacity.

In addition to these major customers, the airline offers specialized services for various target groups:

• Factory transport and shuttles: Optimal solutions for companies with regular travel needs between different locations.
• Special transport: Safe transport of sensitive or urgently needed goods and people.
• Sporting events: Transportation of national teams, Champions League or Bundesliga teams, as well as other sports such as football, rugby or volleyball at the highest level to competitions.
• Cultural tours: Transportation of bands, orchestras or celebrities for performances and events.

This broad positioning impressively demonstrates German Airways’ ability to combine traditional values with modern requirements and to consistently pursue its chosen growth path.

Tradition meets innovation – Looking ahead

German Airways proudly looks back on its seven decades of existence, reflecting an eventful history characterized by a spirit of innovation, adaptability, and deep roots in German aviation tradition. Our thanks go to all employees, business partners, and customers who have made this success story possible.

German Airways continues to set clear goals for the future: maintaining independence and ensuring quality and reliability remain part of the company’s mission statement. Planned innovations are intended to help open up new market segments while simultaneously meeting increasing demands for sustainability.

This means that German Airways is ideally positioned to continue making a significant contribution to the European aviation industry in the coming decades – always with the aspiration of being a regionally rooted but internationally active airline.

Summary

German Airways looks back on 70 years of experience – from its pioneering status as Westdeutsche Luftwerbung GmbH to a modern regional airline focused on charter and wet-lease flights, as well as special transport services throughout Europe. The company combines tradition with innovation – equipped with a state-of-the-art Embraer E190 fleet, it successfully operates in a wide range of areas, from sports team transfers to cultural tours. Future-oriented steps are already planned, ensuring that German Airways remains a strong partner within the European aviation landscape.