In what is a stark departure from recent history, Swiss International Air Lines has selected the 777-300ER for its long haul fleet renewal program, breaking its all-Airbus traditions. The last Boeing type operated by Swiss was the 747.
Boeing announced a commitment for six 777-300ERs valued at US$1.9 billion. No dates have been released on the delivery schedule.
Swiss Air Lines CEO Harry Hohmeister said: “The Boeing 777-300ER is the ideal size and range to meet our Swiss market needs. We have made a landmark decision to further invest in an advanced aircraft fleet to retain our competitive edge over many of our competitors who are operating aircraft with more than 300 seats on similar routes.”
Swiss, owned by the Lufthansa group, is making a renewed push into the Australian market as an offline carrier. Its new daily services between Singapore and Zurich from May 13 are being promoted as a convenient alternative to other airlines. Singapore completes Swiss’s Asian network, which already includes Hong Kong, Bangkok, Tokyo, Shanghai and Beijing.
