Edelweiss presents Switzerland's first Airbus A350
- Switzerland's first Edelweiss Airbus A350 officially unveiled
- Both former and current CEO of Edelweiss together on site
- First commercial flight on April 1, 2025 to Tenerife
Edelweiss, Switzerland's leading leisure airline, has officially unveiled its first Airbus A350. A ceremony took place in an aircraft hangar at Zurich Airport on Thursday afternoon, March 27, 2025. The first of six modern long-haul aircraft was not only welcomed but also christened "Piz Bernina." Representatives from the Engadine region and invited guests attended this special occasion. During the event, guests were given the exclusive opportunity to view the interior of the new Airbus A350 for the first time.
Unique in the history of Edelweiss
This was unprecedented in Edelweiss's history: all previous and current CEOs of the airline were present at this christening. Niklaus Grob, who founded Edelweiss Air AG together with Kuoni Reisen AG on October 19, 1995, was the airline's first CEO. He was succeeded in 2002 by Karl "Charly" Kistler, who not only served as CEO but also as captain. Bernd Bauer has been CEO of Edelweiss Air AG since 2014.
New standards in efficiency, comfort and environmental friendliness
Latest-generation engines and the use of lightweight materials make the twin-engine Airbus A350 one of the most fuel-efficient wide-body aircraft. It consumes up to 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. The Airbus A350 has an even longer range than the Airbus A340, allowing for direct connections to new holiday destinations with Switzerland in the future.
Significantly better travel comfort
The aircraft features 246 Economy Class seats, 63 Economy Max seats with extra legroom and a wide recline, and 30 Business Class seats that convert into a flat bed. All passengers benefit from one of the most modern in-flight entertainment systems with large, high-resolution screens, as well as USB power and power outlets at every seat. Business Class passengers can even enjoy films and series on a 19-inch screen.
For guests, the new aircraft means an even more relaxed and pleasant travel experience. The spacious "Airspace" cabin of the Airbus A350 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, you can breathe fresh air from every seat on the aircraft without drafts and enjoy the natural light that streams in through the 30% larger panoramic windows.
Comprehensive modernization from the end of 2026
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 design. A complete rebuild is planned for the end of 2026, during which the cabin elements will be comprehensively modernized, offering guests an even more comfortable travel experience. The rebuild will also include the installation of a Premium Economy cabin and onboard internet access. Edelweiss is investing a three-digit million euro amount in this. In November 2025, Edelweiss will announce what the new Airbus A350 cabin will look like.
From April onwards, travelling with guests for the first time
The first commercial flight of the Airbus A350 is scheduled for April 1, 2025. Initially, the aircraft will be used on short- and medium-haul flights to familiarize crew members with the new aircraft type. The inaugural flight will be from Zurich to Tenerife. Other destinations in the first few months include Faro, Ibiza, Heraklion, Palma de Mallorca, Antalya, and others. From mid-May 2025, the Airbus A350 will be used on long-haul flights, starting with flights to Las Vegas.