In Memoriam: Bernard Frechen

In Memoriam: Bernard Frechen

Bernard Frechen

A pillar of our flying community – always remembered, deeply missed.

It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to our dear friend and fellow aviator, Bernard Frechen. For many years, Bernard was one of the cornerstones of general aviation in Luxembourg – a quiet force who contributed tirelessly to our flying community, both through AOPA Luxembourg and through his work with Aérosport and LFTA.

As president of AOPA Luxembourg, I can only confirm what many of our board members have expressed: Bernard was a hard worker, dependable and precise. Every single year, without fail, he took the lead in organising our Nav Refresher and the Autumn Rally – two events that became benchmarks of excellence, thanks to his preparation, his methodical approach, and yes, his Deutsche Gründlichkeit.

He brought structure, quality, and high standards to everything he touched. Bernard didn’t need the spotlight. He worked quietly and efficiently, always with the goal of making things better for others.

Our friend Reinhard, who knew Bernard for more than 20 years, recalls how they met at Aérosport. Both came from the same region in Germany – Bernard from Paderborn, Reinhard from just 70 km away – and shared not only a common dialect, but also a common passion.
After retirement, Bernard went “all in” – taking on roles such as Safety Manager and Security Manager at LFTA, and publishing regular safety bulletins that were still being sent out even during his illness.
As Reinhard put it so well: Bernard’s 40-hour-a-week presence at Aérosport made him a cornerstone of running the club and the school smoothly. His vast knowledge of aviation and regulation made him an extremely competent advisor and a strong negotiator with the authorities, such as DAC and LuxAirport.
He even once made a successful emergency landing following an engine failure – a testament to the solid airmanship developed through his earlier years as a glider pilot.

Those who worked closely with Bernard also remember his impact on individual pilots. He had a gift for encouraging those who doubted themselves. Cristina shared how Bernard gently supported her to sign up for her first Nav Refresher and Rally – experiences that turned out to be highlights of her flying journey.
Etienne, who flew with Bernard just after obtaining his PPL, described the Nav Refresher as a turning point in his aviation life. Bernard not only helped him discover new ways of thinking, but also entrusted him with continuing the tradition – and coached him throughout the planning of the 2024 and 2025 editions.

Bernard’s passion for aviation started long ago, and he never lost that spirit. After graduating as an electrical engineer from the prestigious RWTH Aachen, he built a professional career before dedicating himself fully to general aviation. He was a mentor, a friend, and a silent force behind many of our community’s successes.

He passed away at the age of 75. To his family – his two brothers and sister – we extend our heartfelt condolences.

We will remember his quiet dedication, his brilliant mind, and his generous heart. His legacy will live on in our logbooks, in our shared skies, and in every pilot who takes off with more confidence thanks to him.

Fly high, Bernard. You will always be flying with us.

On behalf of AOPA Luxembourg and the Luxembourg pilots’ community,
Peter