Series synopsis
The Two Lives of Lufthansa, also known as Die zwei Leben der Lufthansa is a German documentary television series that premiered on ARTE on March 19, 2026. It ended on March 19, 2026.
From the beginnings of passenger aviation, through militarization during the Second World War, to its development into one of the world’s leading aviation companies: this two-part documentary focuses on the history of Lufthansa and, using previously unpublished archival footage and eyewitness accounts, reveals unknown aspects of the German airline as well as its journey from its founding to the present day.
Premise
From the beginnings of passenger aviation, through militarization during the Second World War, to its development into one of the world’s leading aviation companies: this two-part documentary focuses on the history of Lufthansa and, using previously unpublished archival footage and eyewitness accounts, reveals unknown aspects of the German airline as well as its journey from its founding to the present day.
Episodes
This series spans 1 season with 2 episodes.
| Season | Episodes | First aired | Last aired |
|---|---|---|---|
| Season 1 | 2 | March 19, 2026 | March 19, 2026 |
| Episode | Title | Air date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Pioneers and Propaganda The history of Lufthansa begins with the Junkers F13, the "mother" of passenger aviation. The early years are followed by militarization, which began as early as the Weimar Republic, and the dark chapters of the Second World War. Unpublished archival images and impressions from contemporary witnesses bring unknown facets of Lufthansa to light. |
March 19, 2026 |
| 2 |
Second Hour Zero Lufthansa fought its way back into the market starting in 1955. After a modest start, the 1960s brought in the first profits. As a state-owned enterprise, Lufthansa often served political interests, which led to financial problems in the long run. Despite these crises, Lufthansa developed into one of the world's most important airline groups. |
March 19, 2026 |
Production
Release
| Original network/platform | ARTE |
|---|---|
| First aired | March 19, 2026 |
| Last aired | March 19, 2026 |
| Status | ended |