As Lufthansa Group commemorates its 100th anniversary, the milestone stands as a testament to a century of pioneering achievements, operational excellence and enduring leadership in the global aviation industry. Over the past hundred years, the Group has continually evolved through innovation, strategic expansion and an unwavering commitment to delivering a world-class travel experience.
In this exclusive interview, Kevin Markette, Senior Director, South Asia, Lufthansa Group, reflects on the defining milestones that have shaped Lufthansa’s remarkable journey, discusses the strategic significance of India within the Group’s global network, and shares insights into the company’s approach towards digital transformation, sustainability, operational resilience and its vision for the next century of aviation.
Lufthansa is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. What have been the defining milestones behind this remarkable journey, and what lessons will shape the airline’s future?
Celebrating 100 years is an opportunity to reflect on a century of innovation. From helping shape modern commercial aviation to becoming one of the world’s leading airline groups, Lufthansa has continually evolved to meet the changing needs of travellers. Perhaps the biggest lesson from the past century is that success comes from never standing still. That’s why today we’re investing around €3 billion in the customer experience—from new aircraft and our new Allegris premium cabin concept to digital innovations that will help define the next chapter of our journey.
India is one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets. How does Lufthansa view India’s strategic importance, and what opportunities do you see for expanding connectivity?
India is one of the most important growth markets in our global network. Strong economic growth, deepening business ties with Europe, rising outbound tourism and an expanding premium travel segment all make India strategically significant. Today, Lufthansa Group connects five Indian gateways with four European hubs, offering around 11 daily departures, and we continue to invest in both capacity and the customer experience. The launch of SWISS services to Bengaluru later this year, together with the introduction of our second A380 to India on the Mumbai–Munich route, further demonstrates our long-term commitment to the Indian market.
AI and digital innovation are transforming aviation. How is Lufthansa using technology to enhance both operational efficiency and the passenger experience?
Technology is becoming increasingly central to everything we do. We are using artificial intelligence to enhance operational planning, predict maintenance needs and improve the overall customer experience. For our passengers, digital innovation means more intuitive booking and check-in journeys, better real-time travel information, faster baggage services and increasingly personalised experiences. On board, we are also investing in next-generation connectivity, including the rollout of Starlink internet across all of our aircraft, to ensure customers can stay connected throughout their journey.
Sustainability is reshaping the future of aviation. What are Lufthansa’s key priorities in achieving its environmental goals while continuing to grow?
Sustainability is one of the defining challenges for aviation, and there is no single solution. Our approach is built on a combination of measures, starting with one of the world’s youngest and most fuel-efficient long-haul fleets, which significantly reduces fuel consumption and emissions. At the same time, we are accelerating the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel, expanding Green Fares, improving operational efficiency and supporting the development of future technologies. Our objective is clear: to continue connecting the world while steadily reducing our environmental footprint and moving towards a more sustainable future for aviation.
With evolving regulations and global challenges, how is Lufthansa strengthening its resilience while maintaining innovation and service excellence?
The aviation industry has demonstrated remarkable resilience over the past few years. At Lufthansa Group, that resilience comes from the strength of our diversified business model.As a multi-brand airline group with strong global partnerships, an extensive network and continued investment in our people, technology and products, we are well positioned to adapt to changing market conditions. At the same time, we remain focused on what matters most to our customers: operational reliability, service excellence and delivering a consistently premium travel experience.
As Lufthansa begins its next century, what is your vision for the airline, and what message would you like to share with travellers in India?
Our ambition is to remain Europe’s leading premium airline group by combining innovation, sustainability and an exceptional customer experience. For our customers in India, our message is clear: India is a strategic market for Lufthansa Group, and we will continue to invest in new aircraft, premium products, expanded connectivity and stronger partnerships. We look forward to connecting even more travellers, businesses and cultures between India, Europe and the world in the decades ahead.
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