Representatives of Austrian Airlines with representatives of the "Spanish Riding School." Photo: Austrian Airlines Anyone who has visited Vienna is likely familiar with the attractive site "Spanish Riding School," established in the 16th century and serving as a central component of the history and culture of Austria's capital.
Now, Austrian Airlines has teamed up with the historic Viennese institution, naming its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner after it, with the aim of promoting tourism in Vienna.
As part of the "Highlights of Vienna" initiative, the name of the renowned institution now adorns the fuselage of the Austrian Airlines Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner registered as OE-LPL. While noble Lipizzaner horses rise into the air at the Spanish Riding School during their most famous lesson, the name "Spanish Riding School" of this historic institution will now fly around the world with Austrian Airlines.
In addition to the aircraft with registration OE-LPL, another Dreamliner already bears the name of a famous local site.
Last year, the Boeing 787-9 with registration OE-LPM was named "Schönbrunn Palace." The "Highlights of Vienna" initiative aims to symbolize the strong connection between Austrian Airlines and local tourism as well as the history of Vienna’s landmarks.
Austrian Airlines' Chief Operating Officer, Francesco Sciortino, said: "The Spanish Riding School is the ideal partner for us to name our Dreamliner after. Two Austrian institutions steeped in tradition guarantee that Austria's history and culture will travel the world together."
The Spanish Riding School, founded in 1565, preserves tradition, elegance, perfection, beauty, and above all: horse riding at the highest level. The world-famous performances of the Lipizzaner horses and their riders are held at the riding school in the most beautiful venue in the world.
Each year, approximately 360,000 people visit the riding school. About 87% of the visitors come from abroad, with Americans being the second largest visitor group at 16%.
Austrian Airlines plays a crucial role in this. The airline connects Vienna directly with six major airports in the USA, making the centuries-old riding experience ideally accessible to the enthusiastic American public as well as to all international guests.
As part of the collaboration, Austrian Airlines will be granted sponsorship of a horse from the Spanish Riding School. This involves a 12-year-old Lipizzaner named Favory Wera. His rider is Christian Bačinger, a highly experienced rider who has worked at the Spanish Riding School since 1981. He has passed on his knowledge and expertise among others to young rider Teresa Stephan, who showcases Favory Wera in performances.
Alfred Kodl, CEO of the Spanish Riding School, also emphasizes: "The Spanish Riding School and Austrian Airlines combine tradition, precision, and the highest quality, both on the ground and in the air. This partnership is a great opportunity to convey the charm of our Lipizzaner horses to the world and to make Austria's cultural heritage visible in the traditional manner of Austria."
