Zurich, October 9, 2025 – A new chapter begins for SWISS as the airline officially welcomes its first Airbus A350-900 to its home base in Zurich. The aircraft, registered HB-IFA, arrived from Airbus’s facilities in Toulouse at 15:25 local time, greeted by crowds of aviation enthusiasts and SWISS employees.
The A350, adorned with a unique “Wanderlust” livery celebrating Switzerland’s natural and cultural diversity, marks a milestone in the airline’s modernization strategy. According to SWISS CEO Jens Fehlinger, the A350 symbolizes the airline’s future direction: “efficient, advanced, and distinctly premium, from Switzerland and for Switzerland.”
Equipped with the brand-new “SWISS Senses” cabin, the aircraft introduces a new era of passenger experience, combining cutting-edge technology with a focus on comfort, aesthetics, and personalization. CCO Heike Birlenbach highlighted that the A350 brings “more space, a relaxing ambience, and a truly individual travel experience.”
The A350 is 25% more fuel-efficient than its predecessors, offering lower CO₂ emissions and significantly quieter operations. Its advanced materials also allow for improved cabin air quality and higher humidity levels, enhancing overall comfort.
SWISS plans to add ten A350s by 2031, gradually replacing older long-haul aircraft. Initially, the A350 will operate short-haul training flights within Europe, with the first passenger service to Palma de Mallorca on October 25, followed by its first long-haul route to Boston on November 20, featuring the full SWISS Senses cabin and new onboard service.
The airline has released exclusive images and a livestream recording of the arrival via its online newsroom.
