Swiss International Air Lines reports CHF 3 million operating result amid cost challenges

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Swiss International Air Lines reports CHF 3 million operating result amid cost challenges

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Oliver Buchhofer Chief Operating Officer | Swiss International Air Lines

By Sky Industry News

Apr 29, 2025

SWISS has reported a CHF 3 million operating result for the first quarter of 2025, compared to CHF 31 million in the same period last year. The decline is attributed to Easter falling in the second quarter this year instead of the first, coupled with rising costs. However, strong cargo business and lower fuel prices helped offset some of these impacts. SWISS is preparing for the summer peak travel season with an emphasis on stability and customer satisfaction.

The company achieved adjusted earnings before interest and taxes of CHF 3 million for the first quarter, with revenues totaling CHF 1.22 billion, marking a 2% increase over the previous year. "Our first-quarter earnings were in line with our expectations," stated SWISS Chief Financial Officer Dennis Weber, noting the impact of calendar shifts such as Easter.

Demand remained strong despite an expanded flight program lowering average seat load factors. Rising costs, especially in personnel and air navigation services, further affected earnings. Nevertheless, cargo business and lower-than-expected fuel prices provided a boost.

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SWISS looks to the stronger quarters ahead for better financial performance. "We expect to see favorable business trends over the next few months," Weber noted. He acknowledged rising risks, particularly from tariff conflicts and uncertainties in the US market.

In passenger volumes, SWISS transported 3.7 million passengers in the first quarter, similar to last year, with 32,000 flights—a 3% increase. Capacity rose by 6.4% in seat-kilometer terms, while traffic volume increased by 3%. The systemwide seat load factor was 78.1%, down from 80.7% in 2024.

The airline improved in punctuality with 79% of flights departing on time, a nearly four percentage point improvement. Schedule stability was solid at 98%, minimizing short-notice changes.

SWISS is investing in system stability and customer experience for the summer peak. CEO Jens Fehlinger emphasized the importance of reliability, noting, "We aim to stand out through our stability and reliability this year too."

SWISS invests CHF 1 billion annually to enhance travel experiences, with innovations in seating and service concepts. The upcoming delivery of the first Airbus A350-900 with the new SWISS Senses cabin concept is expected to set new benchmarks in comfort and innovation.