Cologne/Bonn Airport marks 75 years of civil aviation

Cologne/Bonn Airport celebrated a major milestone on 26 September 2025, marking 75 years since the launch of civil air traffic at the site. On that date in 1950, British European Airways (BEA) operated the first scheduled passenger flight from Cologne to Berlin with a Vickers Viking, ushering in a new era for the airport.

To commemorate the anniversary, the airport and British Airways – BEA’s successor – held a special event at the gate for the London Heathrow flight. Passengers were treated to an anniversary cake, a candy bar, gift bags, and commemorative postcards.

Airport CEO Thilo Schmid highlighted the historical symbolism of celebrating with British Airways, which still connects Cologne/Bonn to London Heathrow up to twelve times weekly, linking the region with the global air network.

The airport’s history dates back to military use in 1913. After World War II, the British Royal Air Force expanded the site before handing it over for civil aviation in 1950, with strong backing from Chancellor Konrad Adenauer. The airport company was formally established that December.

Today, Cologne/Bonn Airport hosts over 25 airlines serving around 100 destinations worldwide, while also standing as a major international freight hub for UPS, DHL, and FedEx.