About this Episode
The official National Day celebrations concluded with the traditional Te Deum mass at Notre Dame cathedral, marking Grand Duke Guillaume’s first official birthday as head of state. The ceremony, attended by dignitaries including Prime Minister Luc Frieden, involved prayers for the Grand Duke, political leaders, and the well-being of the country, with Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich leading the proceedings. This year, notable absences included members of the extended Grand Ducal family, and there was no sermon due to the heat. The mass featured musical interludes and ended with the national anthem, with the Grand Ducal couple receiving a standing ovation.
Authorities have focused on the aftermath of the Antonov AN‑2 crash at Findel, clearing the aircraft, reopening the runway after inspections and managing disruption for some 5,200 passengers; Luxair has reported 44 flights affected, over 3,500 of its passengers rebooked and estimated costs near €200,000, while emergency crews and airport teams have begun a technical analysis to determine causes and the pilot has suggested a side wind; officials have also renewed calls to restrict sports and private flying at Findel amid rising commercial traffic pressures.
Rail operator CFL has announced a technical fault near Berchem that has suspended fast train services between Luxembourg City and Rodange and disrupted links toward Thionville and Metz; regional trains continue to run but with reduced frequency, CFL teams are working on site and expect normal service to resume around 3pm, and passengers have been asked to check CFL.lu for updates.
