Eurowings D-AKNQ
The Story of Airbus A319 D-AKNQ – From US Airways to Eurowings
Airbus A319 MSN 1170 began its journey with US Airways as N729US, delivered on February 18, 2000, following its first flight earlier that month. For five years, it served across the U.S. carrier’s short- and medium-haul network before crossing the Atlantic to Germany in July 2005, where it joined Germanwings and received the registration D-AKNQ.
As the Lufthansa Group consolidated its point-to-point operations, D-AKNQ transitioned to Eurowings on October 29, 2017, continuing to connect city pairs across Europe in the airline’s distinctive blue-and-magenta livery.
In 2020, the aircraft retired from frontline service and entered storage — concluding a 20-year flying career that spanned two continents and three airlines. Two years after its final flight, it was ferried to St. Athan, where it was ultimately scrapped in 2023.
Eurowings History – From Regional Airline to Modern Lufthansa Group Carrier
The story of Eurowings is one of transformation, innovation, and enduring German aviation heritage. From its humble beginnings as a regional carrier to its rise as one of Europe’s leading low-cost airlines, Eurowings has been a driving force in shaping modern European air travel.
Early Years and Foundation
Eurowings traces its roots back to 1993, when Nürnberger Flugdienst (NFD) and Reise- und Industrieflug (RFG)merged to form a single regional airline. Operations officially began in 1994, using ATR 42 and ATR 72 turboprop aircraft on domestic and short-haul European routes.
During its early years, Eurowings earned a reputation for reliability, efficiency, and precision — connecting smaller German cities with major hubs and embodying the meticulous standards for which German aviation is renowned.
The Lufthansa Group Connection
A pivotal moment came in 2001, when Lufthansa acquired a 24.9% stake in Eurowings. Over the following decade, this stake gradually increased, and by 2011, Eurowings became a fully integrated part of the Lufthansa Group.
Under Lufthansa’s guidance, Eurowings operated as part of the Lufthansa Regional network, linking regional airports with major international hubs such as Frankfurt and Munich. This partnership brought growth, stability, and access to Lufthansa’s world-class operational expertise — while allowing Eurowings to retain its distinct identity.
Transformation into a Low-Cost Airline
Around 2014–2015, Eurowings entered a bold new chapter. Lufthansa repositioned the brand as its low-cost carrier, enabling it to compete directly with European budget airlines like Ryanair and easyJet.
This transformation included the introduction of a modern Airbus A320-family fleet, replacing older Bombardier CRJregional jets. The integration with Germanwings soon followed, uniting two strong brands under a single, modern identity.
Eurowings even ventured into the long-haul market, operating Airbus A330s to destinations across North America, Asia, and the Caribbean. Although these routes are now managed by Eurowings Discover, the move demonstrated the airline’s ambition and willingness to innovate.
Eurowings Today
Today, Eurowings operates an extensive short- and medium-haul network throughout Europe and neighboring regions. With major bases in Cologne, Düsseldorf, Hamburg, and Berlin, the airline carries millions of passengers each year under the Lufthansa Group umbrella.
Eurowings continues to evolve, focusing on sustainability, modernization, and customer value. A major fleet renewal is already underway — including the introduction of Boeing 737-8 aircraft — reinforcing Eurowings’ commitment to efficient, eco-friendly operations and a modern passenger experience.
Aviation History You Can Hold
For aviation enthusiasts, Eurowings represents more than just a low-cost carrier — it’s a living piece of European aviation history.
At AircraftTag, we’re proud to preserve a part of that legacy. Our Eurowings AircraftTag, crafted from the original fuselage of Airbus A319 D-AKNQ, transforms authentic aircraft skin into a collectible artifact of aviation history. Each tag is individually numbered and hand-finished, celebrating both Eurowings’ heritage and the craftsmanship behind every flight.
Owning an AircraftTag from a Eurowings A319 means holding a tangible piece of European aviation heritage — a reminder of how far the airline has come since 1993, and a tribute to the spirit of flight that continues to inspire travelers worldwide.