Edelweiss Air Boosts A320neo Fleet with Five Ex-Lufthansa Aircraft

Edelweiss Air, the leisure airline based in Zurich and part of SWISS International Air Lines within the Lufthansa Group, has unveiled plans to expand its narrowbody fleet by acquiring five additional A320neos. These aircraft will be sourced from within the Lufthansa Group and were previously operated by Austrian Airlines.

In a recent statement from Edelweiss Air, the airline disclosed that these new aircraft will join its short-haul fleet between 2027 and 2028. Three A320neos will replace the oldest Airbus A320s currently in service, which have been in operation for approximately 26 years. Additionally, two of the new aircraft will enhance the airline’s capacity to support its anticipated growth.

With this expansion, Edelweiss aims to operate a total of 18 short-haul aircraft comprising both A320s and A320neos.

In August 2025, Edelweiss Air took significant strides toward modernizing its short-haul fleet, acquiring Airbus A320 aircraft from its sister carrier, SWISS. The airline announced an increase in its fleet by two aircraft, with one Airbus A320 set to be introduced in October 2025 and an A320neo following in March 2026.

The A320-200, with the registration HB-JLQ, was delivered to SWISS in 2011, while the A320neo, delivered in 2020, has been in storage in Zurich since 2023. With these recent additions, Edelweiss Air is committed to a “modernization program” that underscores its dedication to enhancing operational efficiency.

The Airbus A320neo is noted for its cutting-edge engine technology from Pratt & Whitney, combined with optimized aerodynamics. These advancements lead to reduced drag, heightened operational efficiency, and more sustainable flight profiles. Passengers can also expect more comfortable cabins with ample storage space.

Edelweiss Air emphasizes that the addition of these five aircraft will create a younger, more versatile, and powerful short-haul fleet. This investment not only strengthens the airline’s position at Zurich Airport but also improves operational flexibility across its routes, showcasing a long-term commitment to sustainable and technology-driven growth.

Modernizing Long-Haul Fleet Too

In addition to enhancing its short-haul fleet, Edelweiss Air is also working on modernizing its long-haul operations. The airline plans to retire its five 314-seat Airbus A340-300s, which average 22 years in service. These planes will be replaced by new Airbus A350-900s, each capable of accommodating 339 passengers.

So far, two of the new A350-900s have already been delivered, with an additional four aircraft scheduled to arrive in the coming months. These aircraft are former LATAM Airlines planes that had been in storage in France after their retirement from that fleet.

How do you think the addition of these new aircraft will affect Edelweiss Air’s operations and passenger experiences?