Edelweiss Air

Edelweiss Air is not just an air carrier, but a true symbol of Swiss hospitality in the sky, named after the famous Alpine flower. As a subsidiary of Swiss International Air Lines and part of the Lufthansa Group, this airline specializes in turning a flight into the beginning of a long-awaited holiday. The Edelweiss philosophy is simple: the journey to the most beautiful corners of the planet should be comfortable, reliable, and imbued with care for every passenger.

Features and Advantages of Edelweiss Air

Swiss Quality and History
Founded in 1995, the airline has evolved from a small charter carrier into Switzerland's leading leisure airline. Joining the Lufthansa Group guarantees passengers the highest standards of service and technical reliability. The edelweiss flower logo on the tail of the aircraft has become a mark of quality for tourists who value punctuality and attention to detail.

Flight Geography: From Beaches to Winter Fairytales
The Edelweiss Air route network covers the world's most attractive tourist spots. From its hub, the company operates flights to popular European cities such as Prague or historic Edinburgh, as well as to sunny resorts. Beach lovers choose flights to Palma de Mallorca or exotic Male. For those seeking winter magic, flights are available to Rovaniemi — the home of Santa Claus.

Fleet and Onboard Comfort
The company's fleet consists of modern Airbus liners (A320 for short and medium distances, A340 and the newest A350 for long-haul flights). The cabins are equipped to ensure maximum coziness: from ergonomic seats in Economy Class to fully flat beds in Business Class on long flights. On board, passengers are offered dishes inspired by Swiss cuisine and, of course, famous chocolate.

Safety — The Top Priority
Edelweiss Air's flight safety is ensured by strict Swiss regulations and regular maintenance carried out by Swiss International Air Lines specialists. The airline prides itself on an impeccable reputation and regularly receives high marks in international safety rankings.

Contacting Edelweiss Air representatives is quick and convenient, no matter where you are. The airline offers 24/7 telephone support for urgent inquiries, as well as convenient online channels for managing bookings and additional requests.

Official Website

You can find up-to-date information on flights and services at: www.flyedelweiss.com

Contact Details

• Official Website: www.flyedelweiss.com
• Customer Support: +41 848 333 593 (International number, available 24/7).
• Ticket Booking: +41 848 333 593 (Service Centre).
• Email: For written inquiries, it is recommended to use the official "Contact Form" on the airline's website.
• Mobile App: The airline does not have its own app. To check in and manage your booking, it is recommended to use the mobile version of flyedelweiss.com or the partner airline SWISS app.

Social Media

Follow news, promotions, and inspiring photos on official accounts:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• X (Twitter)
• LinkedIn
• YouTube

Local Offices and Representation

• Headquarters: The Circle 32, 8058 Zurich Airport, Switzerland.
• Airport Counters: The main service counters are located at the base airport Zurich (ZRH). Check-in counter numbers (Check-in 1 or 3) are always displayed on the electronic departure boards.

24/7 Support

The main Edelweiss Air Service Centre (+41 848 333 593) operates 24/7, providing assistance to passengers at any time of day, including weekends and holidays.

Please note: Contact details and operating hours may change. We recommend checking current information on the official website before contacting them. Call costs depend on your service provider's rates.

Preparing for a trip with Edelweiss Air begins with packing your suitcases correctly. As a Swiss airline focused on leisure, the carrier offers fairly generous and transparent baggage rules so your holiday starts without unnecessary hassle at the airport. However, allowances may vary depending on the booking class and fare, so it is important to check the details in advance.

Hand Luggage: Essentials with You

Edelweiss Air's hand luggage rules are designed to ensure comfort for all passengers on board. The number of items depends on the selected class of service:

• Economy Class: One piece of hand luggage weighing up to 8 kg is allowed. Maximum dimensions are 55 x 40 x 23 cm.
• Business Class: Passengers may take two pieces of hand luggage, each weighing up to 8 kg, with the same size restrictions (55 x 40 x 23 cm).

In addition to the main bag, every passenger (adult or child with their own seat) may bring one personal item on board free of charge. This could be a handbag, laptop bag, or shoulder bag measuring no more than 40 x 30 x 10 cm. It is important that this item fits under the seat in front of you.

Checked Baggage: Allowances and Weight

Free checked baggage allowances depend on your route and fare. The standard Weight Concept or Piece Concept applies as follows:

• Economy Class: The standard fare usually includes one piece of baggage weighing up to 23 kg. Please note: on the cheapest fares (e.g., Economy Light), checked baggage may not be included and must be paid for separately.
• Business Class: The allowance is increased to two pieces of baggage, each weighing up to 32 kg.

For infants (under 2 years), one piece of baggage weighing up to 10 kg is usually provided, as well as free carriage of a collapsible stroller.

Excess Baggage and Fees

If your items exceed the established limits for weight or quantity, a surcharge will apply. Edelweiss Air recommends paying for additional baggage in advance via online services, as rates at the airport are significantly higher. Overweight items (more than 23 kg but less than 32 kg) and additional baggage pieces are calculated at different rates. Remember that a suitcase weighing more than 32 kg will not be accepted as ordinary baggage due to safety regulations for handlers — it will have to be processed as cargo.

Sports Equipment and Musical Instruments

As an airline based in a country of Alpine peaks, Edelweiss understands outdoor enthusiasts. If you are flying to their hub in Zurich or other winter sports destinations, you will appreciate the special conditions:

• Skis and Snowboards: On many fares, the first set of ski or snowboard equipment is carried free of charge (in addition to the standard baggage allowance). This rule does not apply to Light fares.
• Other Sports: Bicycles, golf, or diving equipment are carried for a fixed fee. Be sure to register sports equipment in advance via the call centre.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments (violin, flute) can be carried in the cabin as hand luggage if they fit within the dimensions. For a cello or guitar, you can purchase an extra seat in the cabin ("Seat for baggage") or check them in a hard case.

Restrictions and Prohibited Items

For safety reasons, there are strict rules regarding what can and cannot be taken on board:

• In Hand Luggage: Liquids only in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent 1-litre bag. Sharp objects and replica weapons are prohibited.
• In Checked Baggage: It is strictly forbidden to check in lithium batteries and power banks — they can only be carried in hand luggage. Electronic cigarettes are also prohibited in checked baggage.
• Total Ban: Explosives, flammable liquids, toxic chemicals.

Tips for Efficient Packing

To ensure a smooth flight, weigh your suitcases at home before leaving. Be sure to attach a tag with your name and contact details (outside and inside the suitcase). Always keep valuables, documents, money, and vital medicines with you in your hand luggage — in case of a delay with your checked baggage. If you are carrying fragile souvenirs, wrap them in soft clothing and place them in the centre of the suitcase.

Edelweiss Air's pet transport rules are designed to ensure maximum safety and comfort for your pet, whether it's a short flight or a long journey. The airline understands that pets are part of the family, so it offers flexible conditions for transporting cats and dogs from its hub to the city of Zurich and across its entire route network. The main thing is to prepare documents in advance and choose the appropriate method of transport.

In the Cabin (Hand Luggage)

This option is suitable for small pets that can travel next to their owner throughout the flight.

• Carrier Dimensions: A soft bag must be no larger than 55 x 40 x 23 cm.
• Weight: The maximum weight of the animal together with the carrier is 8 kg.
• Allowed Animals: Only dogs and cats.
• Placement Requirements: The animal must remain in the bag under the seat in front for the entire flight.
• Limit: Usually no more than two animals per passenger are allowed (in one or different carriers, if conditions permit).

In the Baggage Compartment (Checked Baggage)

If your pet weighs more than 8 kg or the container exceeds hand luggage dimensions, it travels in a special air-conditioned compartment.

• Container: A rigid container (cage) complying with IATA standards is required.
• Cage Size: The animal must be able to stand, turn around freely, and lie down in a natural position.
• Comfort: The cage must be equipped with a water bowl and absorbent bedding.
• Restrictions: Transport may be restricted during extreme temperatures at departure or arrival airports.

As Cargo

This method is used for very large animals or under special circumstances.

• When Required: If the weight of the animal with the cage exceeds the baggage limits (usually over 75 kg) or if the animal is flying without the owner.
• Requirements: Processing is done through the cargo division (Swiss WorldCargo).
• Destinations: For some countries (e.g., UK, Hong Kong), importing animals is only permitted as cargo.

Necessary Documents

Without the correct set of documents, the pet may not be allowed on the flight.

• International veterinary passport.
• Microchip (ISO standard) for identification.
• Valid rabies vaccination (administered at least 21 days before departure).
• Health certificate (required for some destinations).
• Special permits for entry into countries with strict quarantine controls.

Cost of Services

Pet transport is not included in the free baggage allowance and is paid for additionally as excess baggage.

• In the Cabin: Fixed fee per flight segment (the most budget-friendly option).
• In the Baggage Compartment: Price depends on the cage size (Small, Medium, Large) and flight distance.
• Payment: It is recommended to pay for the service in advance via the call centre or website.

Preparation Tips

Reducing stress for the animal is key to a calm flight for everyone.

• Accustom your pet to the carrier or cage several weeks before travel.
• Put a favourite toy or item with the owner's scent in the container.
• Do not feed the animal heavily 2–4 hours before departure, but provide access to water.
• Do not use sedatives without strict veterinary recommendation (due to pressure changes, this can be dangerous).

Restrictions

There are important exceptions to be aware of before booking.

• Brachycephalic Breeds: Dogs and cats with flattened faces (Pugs, Bulldogs, Persian cats) are often banned from transport in the hold due to the risk of breathing problems.
• Aggressive Breeds: Special cage construction requirements apply to fighting dog breeds.
• Guide Dogs: Transported free of charge in the aircraft cabin with appropriate training certificates.

Important: The number of spaces for animals on each flight is limited. We strongly recommend booking a space for your pet immediately after purchasing your ticket by contacting Edelweiss Air support.

Traveling with Edelweiss Air, you automatically gain access to the benefits of Miles & More — Europe's leading loyalty programme for travellers. Since the airline is part of the Lufthansa Group, passengers can earn valuable miles and status points not only on flights with this Swiss carrier but also on routes of all partner airlines, turning every flight into an investment in a future journey.

Membership Levels and Privileges

The Miles & More status system is designed to reward frequent flyers, offering more comfort with each new level:

• Member (Blue): The entry level, allowing you to earn miles immediately after free registration.
• Frequent Traveller (Silver): Access to Lufthansa Group business lounges, priority check-in, and increased baggage allowance.
• Senator (Gold): Access to Star Alliance Gold lounges worldwide, priority boarding, and booking guarantee.
• HON Circle (Black): The highest elite status with exclusive access to First Class terminals and limousine service.

How to Earn Miles

The earning system is flexible and allows you to top up your account not only in the sky but also on the ground:

• Flights: The number of miles earned depends on the ticket price and booking class on Edelweiss and partner flights.
• Programme Partners: Miles are awarded for stays at chain hotels and car rentals from global providers.
• Co-branded Cards: Miles & More cardholders earn miles for any daily purchases, from coffee to electronics.
• Daily Shopping: Earn bonuses for purchases in duty-free shops and from numerous retail partners.

How to Spend Miles

Accumulated points are your currency for new experiences and improved comfort:

• Award Tickets: Pay with miles for a flight to the airline's home hub — Zurich or anywhere in the world.
• Class Upgrade: Use miles to upgrade from Economy to Business Class to enjoy Swiss service.
• Worldshop: Purchase quality suitcases, electronics, and accessories in the special online store using miles.
• Charity: The opportunity to donate accumulated miles to social and environmental projects.

Alliance Membership

Thanks to membership in Star Alliance through its parent company, the Edelweiss Air loyalty card works globally:

• Global Alliance: Privileges apply on flights of all 26 Star Alliance member airlines.
• Key Partners: SWISS, Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines, United, Air Canada, Turkish Airlines, and others.

How to Join the Programme

Becoming a member is very simple: just complete the free registration on the official Miles & More website or download the mobile app. Immediately after receiving your digital card number, you can enter it when booking tickets for Edelweiss Air flights so you don't miss a single mile.

A flight with Edelweiss Air is the start of your holiday from the moment you board. The airline is proud of its Swiss heritage, which is reflected in every detail of the service: from punctuality to the quality of the meals served. Since Edelweiss specializes in leisure destinations, the atmosphere in the cabin is always more relaxed and festive than on strict business flights.

Service Classes: Choose Your Level of Comfort

Depending on the aircraft type and flight duration, for example, a short flight to Europe or a long journey to Male, the cabin layout may vary. However, high standards remain consistent across all classes.

• Economy Class: Ergonomic seats with adjustable headrests ensure comfort even during long flights. The ticket price includes meals, beverages, and an entertainment system (on long-haul flights). This is an excellent choice for those who value Swiss quality at a reasonable price.
• Economy Max: A special feature of Edelweiss Air is the enhanced economy class. Passengers get 15 cm more legroom and an increased seat recline angle. This zone is located in the front part of the economy cabin, guaranteeing faster disembarkation upon arrival.
• Business Class: On long-haul flights, business class seats convert fully into a 2-metre horizontal bed. Passengers can adjust the seat cushion firmness (a unique air cushion function) and use the massage function. On short flights, business class involves a blocked middle seat for greater privacy.

Please note: The airline does not offer First Class, as the Business Class concept on board Edelweiss fully covers premium leisure needs.

Meals and Beverages: A Taste of Switzerland

Unlike many other carriers, Edelweiss Air maintains the tradition of complimentary meals on board. The menu varies depending on the time of day and flight duration.

• Swiss Traditions: On most flights, passengers are offered hot or cold dishes prepared from seasonal products. The final touch to the meal is often famous Swiss chocolate or a traditional "Biberli" gingerbread.
• Beverages: Non-alcoholic drinks (water, juices, sodas) are offered free of charge in all classes. A selection of other beverages is also often included in the service, even in Economy Class.
• Special Meals: If you have specific dietary preferences (vegetarian, gluten-free) or religious requirements (such as Halal meals), you can order a special meal free of charge no later than 4 days before departure via the website or call centre.

In-Flight Entertainment

You won't be bored during the flight. The Edelweiss Air entertainment system offers a wide selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games.

• On Long Flights: Every seat (including Economy) is equipped with a personal HD touchscreen. You can choose what to watch from an extensive library.
• On Short and Medium Flights: Passengers can use their own devices (smartphones, tablets) to connect to the internal entertainment Wi-Fi network. Simply connect to the onboard network to access movies and the flight map right on your screen.

Services for Families and Passengers with Special Needs

Departing from the hub in the city of Zurich or returning home, every passenger can count on care and attention.

• For Children: Young travellers receive gift play sets, colouring books, or puzzles featuring the airline's mascot — Giancarlo the marmot. Baby food must be ordered in advance. Flight attendants are always ready to help warm up a bottle for an infant.
• Assistance for Passengers with Reduced Mobility: The airline provides full assistance at the airport and on board. Aircraft seats have movable armrests for easy transfer. It is important to request assistance service (WCHR/WCHS/WCHC) when booking your ticket.
• Shopping: A Duty Free shop operates on board, where you can purchase exclusive Swiss watches, cosmetics, perfumes, and souvenirs at attractive prices.

The Edelweiss Air route network is centered around its home hub in the city of Zurich, from where travellers can depart to both European capitals and exotic corners of the planet. The airline specializes in leisure destinations, offering convenient connections and seasonal flights for the perfect holiday. Below is a table of current routes, sorted by flight frequency over the past three weeks.

A journey with Edelweiss Air begins long before arriving at the airport. To ensure your holiday goes flawlessly and your budget doesn't suffer from unforeseen expenses, it is worth using a few proven tips for planning a trip with this Swiss airline.

Best Time to Book

Since Edelweiss specializes in popular tourist destinations, ticket demand depends heavily on seasonality.

• Long-haul Flights: If you are planning a trip to exotic countries, for example, to Male, it is better to book tickets 5–6 months before departure. This will allow you to catch the lowest Economy Saver fares.
• European Destinations: For flights to Prague, Edinburgh, or Mediterranean resorts, the optimal purchase time is 2–3 months in advance.
• Peak Season: Be careful when planning flights during school holidays in Switzerland (July-August, Christmas, Easter) — tickets for these dates sell out very quickly and are more expensive.

How to Find the Best Prices and Promotions

Edelweiss Air is not a low-cost carrier, but it regularly offers great deals.

• "Flight Specials" Section: Always check the special offers section on the official website. Discounts often appear there for flights at the beginning and end of the season.
• Flexible Dates: Use the price calendar function when searching. Shifting your departure by 1–2 days can save up to 20% of the ticket cost.
• Subscription: The airline's newsletter is the most reliable way to be the first to know about sales.

Online Check-in: Save Time

To avoid queues at the airport, especially in the busy hub of Zurich, it is strongly recommended to check in online.

• Opening Time: Web check-in opens 23 hours before departure.
• Where to Check In: This can be done on flyedelweiss.com or via the partner airline SWISS website.
• Boarding Pass: You can print it at home or save the mobile version on your smartphone.
• Automatic Check-in: When booking through certain tour operators or on some fares, an automatic check-in service is available — the boarding pass will be sent to your email.

Seat Selection: Comfort in the Sky

Choosing the right seat is key to feeling good after the flight.

• Economy Max: If you are flying far, consider paying extra for Economy Max seats. An additional 15 cm of legroom and a greater recline angle significantly increase comfort.
• Advance Booking: Free seat selection is only available during online check-in (23 hours prior), but choice may be limited. If you are flying as a family or group and want to sit together, it is better to pay for seat selection in advance at the ticket purchase stage ("Advance Seat Reservation" category).

Mobile Technology

Edelweiss Air does not have its own separate mobile app. To manage bookings, check-in, and track flights, use:

• Mobile Website Version: It is fully optimized and functional.
• SWISS App: Since the companies are closely integrated, the SWISS (Swiss International Air Lines) app is excellent for storing boarding passes for Edelweiss flights (flight codes WK/LX).

Insurance and Safety

Don't forget about travel insurance. If you are flying to ski resorts (e.g., via Rovaniemi) or planning an active seaside holiday, make sure your policy covers sports risks. Edelweiss Air recommends taking out insurance that covers trip cancellation, as tickets on the cheapest fares are often non-refundable.

The history of Edelweiss Air is an inspiring journey from a small charter carrier to Switzerland's leading leisure airline. Founded on October 19, 1995, in Bassersdorf by the travel group Kuoni, the company was named after the famous Alpine flower — a symbol of resilience and natural beauty. From the very beginning, the goal of creating the airline was to provide Swiss tourists with a comfortable flight to holiday destinations, which defined its unique, relaxed service style.

First Flights and a Change of Eras

The airline operated its first commercial flight in February 1996 on a McDonnell Douglas MD-83 aircraft. In the early years, the fleet was modest, but the bright livery with a red nose and an edelweiss flower on the tail quickly made the planes recognizable at European airports. A major milestone in the carrier's history was 2008, when Edelweiss Air was acquired by Swiss International Air Lines. This merger opened a new chapter: the carrier became part of the global Lufthansa Group family while retaining its unique brand and specialization in leisure routes.

Fleet Evolution

Over time, the airline completely modernized its aircraft fleet, moving away from outdated models in favor of Airbus liners. The transition to the A320 family for short distances and A330/A340 for long-haul flights allowed for a significant expansion of flight geography and improved fuel efficiency. Today, the fleet continues to be updated: the introduction of the newest Airbus A350 marks the company's commitment to sustainability and even greater passenger comfort.

Expanding Horizons

Integration with a global network has turned the home hub in the city of Zurich into a convenient starting point for travel around the world. While in the early years the route network was limited to classic Mediterranean beaches such as Palma de Mallorca, today the flight map is strikingly diverse. The airline has successfully mastered long-haul destinations, regularly taking tourists to paradise islands, for example, to Male (Maldives). In addition, the network has been enriched with European cultural capitals, including Prague and historic Edinburgh, as well as unique seasonal destinations such as winter Rovaniemi in Lapland.

Modernity and Innovation

In recent years, Edelweiss Air has been actively investing in service digitalization and onboard product improvement. The introduction of the Economy Max concept, modernization of business class cabins, and enhancement of the inflight entertainment system confirm the company's status as a premium leisure carrier. Despite global growth, the airline remains true to its roots, promoting Swiss quality and hospitality on every flight.