A Lufthansa A380 was today named “Johannesburg” by Mrs Nomvula Mokonyane, the Premier of South Africa’s Gauteng province. The official ceremony took place at OR Tambo International Airport in the presence of Councillor Parks Tau, the Executive Mayor of Johannesburg, who unveiled the name on the aircraft’s fuselage. Following the naming ceremony, the aircraft departed for a scenic flight to the Cape Town area, performing a low overflight of the city and Table Mountain.
Johannesburg, 28 June 2011

In a festive ceremony at OR Tambo International Airport, a Lufthansa Airbus A380, the world’s largest passenger airplane, was named “Johannesburg” by Mrs Nomvula Mokonyane, the Premier of South Africa’s Gauteng province. Councillor Parks Tau, the Executive Mayor of Johannesburg proudly unveiled the South African city’s name on the aircraft fuselage, assisted by Mr Kay Kratky, member of the Lufthansa German Airlines Board, who is responsible for the airline’s Frankfurt and Flight Operations division.

Following the naming ceremony, the aircraft departed for a scenic flight to the Western Cape, performing a low overflight of Cape Town and the Table Mountain to greet residents and A380 fans. The “Johannesburg” was piloted by Captain Jürgen Raps.

“Our A380 bears the name of Johannesburg as a symbol of friendship between Germany and South Africa. It will travel the world as an ambassador for intercultural understanding, bridging continents and connecting people”, said Kay Kratky. “We would also like to use this opportunity to express our gratitude towards our customers and partners in South Africa. Without their loyalty and support we would not be here today”, he added.

Johannesburg became Lufthansa’s third A380 destination in September 2010, right after Tokyo and Beijing. Meanwhile, New York, San Francisco and Miami have been added as further destinations served by Lufthansa’s new flagship. As of 30 October, when the winter timetable goes into effect, Lufthansa will operate a daily A380 service on its Frankfurt-Singapore route as well, bringing the number of A380 destinations to seven