Swiss airline grapples with multiple crises affecting flights and costs

Jens Fehlinger, chief executive of Swiss, told the online platform Persönlich that a convergence of crises is straining the airline’s schedule and finances. Closed airspace over the Middle East and the Russia-Ukraine corridor forces long detours, especially to Asian destinations that now rely on two corridors or the North Pole. Fuel prices have surged since the war began, nearly doubling at times, and this spike is already reflected in the carrier’s interim earnings and is expected to affect the annual report.

Weather extremes, notably high temperatures and severe thunderstorms, intermittently block airways and disrupt airport operations, compounding delays. While the Zurich cantonal council chose not to further restrict night flights, Fehlinger noted that the airport remains one of Europe’s most constrained hubs, calling for broader discussion on its competitive position. He affirmed Swiss will stay a strong, independent airline and highlighted cooperation with parent company Lufthansa on bookings and fuel procurement.