Edelweiss modernizes its long-haul fleet with the Airbus A350-900

Edelweiss is procuring six highly efficient and low-emission Airbus A350-900 aircraft. These will be gradually added to the Edelweiss fleet starting in summer 2025. By the end of 2026, the existing five Airbus A340-300 long-haul aircraft will be replaced, and Edelweiss' long-haul fleet will be restored to pre-coronavirus levels.

Edelweiss CEO Bernd Bauer: "The modernization of the long-haul fleet is a milestone in Edelweiss's almost 30-year history. Edelweiss will thus operate one of the youngest long-haul fleets in Europe starting in 2026."

The Airbus A350-900 has an even greater range than the Airbus A340-300, allowing new holiday destinations to be directly connected to Switzerland in the future. For passengers, the new aircraft offers an even more relaxed and pleasant travel experience. The spacious "Airspace" cabin of the Airbus A350-900 features wide aisles and large-capacity overhead bins. Thanks to the modern cabin, the aircraft also has a very quiet passenger compartment, which contributes significantly to improved travel comfort. Edelweiss guests will also appreciate the improved air quality in the future. Thanks to state-of-the-art technology, every seat on the aircraft breathes fresh air without drafts and enjoys the natural light that streams in through the 30% larger panoramic windows.

The aircraft, previously operated by LATAM Airlines, will initially have 339 seats and offer Edelweiss' renowned comfort in all classes: 246 seats in Economy Class, 63 seats in Economy Max with more legroom and greater recline, and 30 seats in Business Class that convert into a flat bed. All guests will benefit from one of the most modern in-flight entertainment systems with large, high-resolution screens and USB power outlets at every seat. Business Class passengers can even enjoy films and series on a 19-inch screen.

Due to global material shortages and reduced maintenance and engineering capacities, the first four aircraft will initially operate in the original operator's configuration with slight modifications to the cabin and the Edelweiss livery. Edelweiss will later install a completely new cabin configuration with new seats and a new interior design. This will significantly enhance the comfort and travel experience for all guests. Edelweiss is investing a three-digit million euro amount in this project.

An environmentally friendly and economical aircraft
"The design of the Airbus A350-900 sets new standards in efficiency with state-of-the-art technologies and outstanding aerodynamics. It is one of the most environmentally friendly long-haul aircraft in the world," continued Bernd Bauer. Latest-generation engines and the use of lightweight materials make the twin-engine Airbus A350-900 one of the most fuel-efficient wide-body aircraft. It consumes 25 percent less fuel and therefore produces 25 percent less _CO2 than the four-engine Airbus A340-300. Noise emissions are also up to 50 percent lower.

According to current planning, the first Airbus A350-900 with the Edelweiss livery will arrive in Zurich in summer 2025 and will be deployed on Edelweiss' entire long-haul network, which includes over 20 destinations in North, Central, and South America, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and the Indian Ocean.