A Humble Takeoff

On 31 March 1962, a Fokker F27 Friendship aircraft departed from Luxembourg-Findel Airport, heading for Paris-Le Bourget. It was the moment that marked the first commercial flight of Luxair, the nation’s brand-new airline. The need for a national carrier had grown evident, and Luxair filled that role with ambition.

Origins and Early Growth

Luxair was formed from the restructuring of the Luxembourg Airlines Company, which had been founded in 1948. In its first year of operation, Luxair extended its reach beyond Paris to destinations like Amsterdam and Frankfurt, serving nearly 9,000 passengers. It quickly expanded its fleet and routes, embracing jet technology and exploring international partnerships.

Experimentation and Adaptability

During the 1970s, Luxair experimented with long-haul services, most notably through a partnership with Trek Airways that offered flights to Johannesburg. Although these routes were not permanent, they showcased the airline’s willingness to adapt and evolve. This flexible approach would become a defining feature of the company.

The Birth of LuxairTours

In 1968, Luxair launched LuxairTours—a game-changer for the company. This new venture offered comprehensive holiday packages, combining flights with accommodation and transfers. LuxairTours quickly became popular with holidaymakers in Luxembourg and surrounding regions. Today, it remains a critical pillar of Luxair’s operations, connecting travellers with leisure destinations across Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.

Cargo as a Financial Backbone

While Luxair has made a reputation for its efficient passenger and holiday services, its long-term stability has largely depended on cargo. LuxCargo, the freight division, plays a central role in supporting the airline financially. Luxembourg’s favourable geographic location and logistics ecosystem have helped LuxCargo grow into a major European freight hub. The transition of ground handling to Luxcargo Handling S.A., a Cargolux subsidiary, has further increased efficiency and profitability.

A Symbol of National Pride

Six decades later, Luxair continues to embody the spirit of Luxembourg: small but ambitious, flexible yet reliable. It has known economic challenges, industry upheavals, and global crises. With LuxairTours thriving and LuxCargo ensuring financial resilience, Luxair steps into its 65th year as a symbol of national achievement.