SWISS to operate more flights with its own aircraft and crews again from summer 2027
Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) has announced plans to operate significantly more flights using its own aircraft and crews starting with the summer 2027 schedule, reducing its reliance on wet-lease partners.
Key Changes
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SWISS will reduce the number of externally operated wet-lease aircraft from 26 to around 18 by summer 2027.
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The airline will increasingly operate flights itself, including the return of additional Airbus A320 aircraft to its own operations.
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Going forward, Helvetic Airways will become SWISS's primary wet-lease partner.
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SWISS's cooperation with airBaltic will end after the 2026/27 winter timetable period.
Why SWISS Can Take Back More Operations
In recent years, SWISS relied heavily on wet-lease partners due to operational challenges, including:
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Shortages of Pratt & Whitney engines
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Additional pilot and crew training requirements
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Limited cockpit crew availability
According to SWISS, these constraints are beginning to ease as:
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More engines become available.
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Pilot staffing levels improve.
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Operational planning becomes more stable.
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This allows the airline to gradually bring more flying back in-house.
Strategic Focus on Helvetic Airways
SWISS plans to deepen its long-standing relationship with Helvetic Airways, viewing the carrier as a reliable strategic partner that offers:
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Operational flexibility
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Seasonal capacity support
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Improved planning certainty
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Continued schedule stability
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At the same time, SWISS acknowledged airBaltic's important role in helping maintain flight operations during the challenging period caused by engine shortages and capacity constraints.
Management Commentary
SWISS CEO Jens Fehlinger emphasized that reducing wet-lease dependence by up to eight aircraft compared with the previous summer is a significant achievement that requires:
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Adequate crew resources
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Favorable operational conditions
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Long-term planning
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He described the move as an important step toward the airline's objective of operating more flights with its own aircraft and personnel.
Key Takeaway
SWISS is entering a new phase of operational recovery. As staffing and aircraft availability improve, the airline plans to regain greater control of its network by operating more flights itself, while streamlining wet-lease partnerships and strengthening its strategic cooperation with Helvetic Airways.
