Lufthansa Pilot's Final Flight Honored with Rare Double Tribute
A Lufthansa Airbus A380 received a rare double send-off this week. As the aircraft took off from Frankfurt, it was honoured with both a water cannon salute and a 'wing wave' from the pilot. The special farewell marked the final flight for Captain Christian Pokorski after 33 years with the airline.
The event began with the traditional water cannon salute, a gesture usually reserved for retiring pilots, new aircraft, or route launches. Fire trucks sprayed arcs of water over the plane as it taxied, creating a striking visual tribute. The airline and airport had approved the display in advance.
Onboard, flight attendants likely informed passengers about the upcoming manoeuvres. Once airborne, Captain Pokorski performed the 'wing wave'—a controlled roll of the aircraft's wings, resembling a wave. The move, executed smoothly, showcased his decades of experience.
Lufthansa currently operates eight Airbus A380s, all of which are undergoing a retrofit program. The first updated plane will return to service in April 2026, with the full fleet expected to be modernised by mid-2027. This particular flight, however, was a personal milestone for Pokorski, who had flown the superjumbo for years.
The combined water salute and wing wave marked a fitting end to Pokorski's long career. The Airbus A380, known for its size and engineering, became part of his final farewell. The airline's fleet will continue flying, but this flight stood out as a memorable moment for those involved.
