Founded: 2002
Headquarters: Basel, Switzerland (operations based in Zurich)
Main hubs: Zurich (ZRH) and Geneva (GVA)
Swiss International Air Lines, usually known simply as SWISS, is the national airline of Switzerland. Known for its punctuality, polished service and, of course, Swiss chocolate handed out at the end of every flight, it connects Switzerland with destinations across Europe and around the world. Here is a profile of the airline.
A brief history of SWISS
SWISS was created in 2002 from the regional airline Crossair after the collapse of the former national carrier, Swissair. In 2005 it became part of the Lufthansa Group, and it is a member of Star Alliance, the world’s largest airline alliance. This gives passengers access to a huge network of connecting flights and shared loyalty benefits.
The SWISS fleet
SWISS operates a modern fleet of Airbus and Boeing aircraft. On European routes it flies Airbus A220s – SWISS was the launch customer for the type – and A320-family jets. Long-haul routes are served by Airbus A330s and A340s and Boeing 777-300ERs, with new long-haul aircraft joining the fleet.
Where SWISS flies and what to expect
SWISS flies to around 100 destinations in Europe, North America, Asia, Africa and South America, mainly from Zurich and also from Geneva. Its service is consistently highly rated: comfortable cabins, good catering on long-haul flights and attentive crews. Its Miles & More loyalty programme is shared with the other Lufthansa Group airlines.
Safety
Safety and security come first at SWISS. Its crews are highly trained and its fleet meets the strictest international safety standards.
SWISS and Israel
SWISS operates flights between Zurich and Tel Aviv, giving Israelis convenient connections to Switzerland and onward across the Star Alliance network. Its operations to Israel have been suspended and resumed at various times depending on the security situation – see SWISS resumes flights to Ben Gurion and check the current schedule before booking.
Tips for flying SWISS
- Compare fare types: economy fares range from Light (hand luggage only) to Classic and Flex, which include checked baggage and more flexibility.
- Use Zurich as a hub: Zurich Airport is efficient and easy to navigate for connections.
- Plan a stopover: the airport has a train station, so you can be in central Zurich in about 10 minutes.
Planning your visit? Read our Switzerland travel guide, and our city guides to Zurich and Geneva. SWISS is a sister airline of Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines.
