Airbus A350. Photo: SWISS The First Airbus A350 Lands in Zurich with 'SWISS Senses' Experience
SWISS' first Airbus A350 landed at its new home in Zurich Airport on October 9, receiving a warm welcome from aviation enthusiasts who gathered to witness history. The new aircraft, registered as HB-IFA, departed from the Airbus factory in Toulouse around midday and landed in Zurich at 15:25.
The Airbus A350 is considered the most advanced wide-body aircraft in the world, and its addition to the SWISS fleet marks the beginning of a new era in the company's service and operations. With the new and revolutionary 'SWISS Senses' cabin, the aircraft offers a flight experience that elevates comfort, design, and technology to new heights.
This new concept reflects SWISS' aspirations to provide a true premium flight product: personal, relaxing, sophisticated, with a clear and consistent commitment to quality and Swiss hospitality.
A350 Photo: SWISS"Today is an important day for us," said CEO Jens Fehlinger: "The Airbus A350 brings our customers to a new era of international flights. The aircraft represents everything we want to be in the future: efficient, advanced, and clearly positioned as a premium airline, from Switzerland for Switzerland. This is a giant step forward technologically, ecologically, and in passenger experience. It's a special moment to receive a completely new plane with a new cabin, something likely to happen only once in a career in aviation. This aircraft embodies all the progress and precision imaginable.”
A350 Photo: SWISSWith fuel-efficient engines and improved aerodynamics, the aircraft consumes about 25% less fuel than the previous model, thereby reducing carbon dioxide emissions. The aircraft is also quieter, made from materials more durable than regular aluminum, which allows for lower cabin pressure and higher humidity content, providing passengers with enhanced comfort during the flight. By 2031, ten A350 aircraft are expected to join the SWISS fleet.
Initially, the new aircraft will operate short flights within Europe to allow SWISS pilots to complete practical training on the plane. The first official passenger flight is planned from Zurich to Palma de Mallorca on October 25.
The inaugural long-haul flight is to Boston on November 20, and the flight will operate with the new 'SWISS Senses' cabin and long-haul service. The new cabin was developed in collaboration with the Lufthansa Group and the certifications have been optimally received.
First images of the A350 landing in Zurich are now available on the SWISS news website, and the company will provide additional materials, including the recording of the plane's live arrival broadcast.