note
Flag carrier of Switzerland. Airline was formed when Basler Luftverkehr (Balair) and Astra Aero AG merged in 1931. In the 1930s, Swissair used Douglas DC-2s and DC-3s. Service to London was inaugurated in April 1935. During World War II airline stopped trading. Operations resumed again in July 1945. First trans Atlantic service was opened two years later when New York was added to Swissair network using Douglas DC-4s. First jet was Sud Aviation Caravelle delivered in April 1960. The same month, Swissair also introduced Douglas DC-8s on its New York route. Early 1970s saw fleet renewal when Boeing 747 joined fleet in 1971 and Douglas DC-10 year later. These two types served Swissair's long-haul network for next 20years. Swissair joined resources with KLM and SAS to maintain its 747s and DC-10s. Swissair was first customer of Airbus A310 first of which joined fleet in March 1984. Swissair also took delivery of the first 747-300 series jumbo jet in March 1983. Another major fleet renewal started when Swissair took delivery of Airbus A330 in September 1998. Airline operated world wide network except for Australia. It built a reputation of high quality service and was one of the world's elite airlines. Little was known of its financial health, however. Airline collapsed in the wake of financial difficulties caused by failed expansion program and downturn of whole industry after the September 11th terrorist attacks. Swiss banks refused to loan money to Swissair, that has been up to its demise considered of one of the best run airlines in the world. Another Swiss carrier regional Crossair took over most of Swissair assets and together with its assets formed new airline called Swiss International Air Lines that took over most of Swissair and Crossair duties. Both Crossair and Swissair ceased to exist legally.
founded - demised (age)
March 26 1931 - March 31 2002 (71)
headquarters
Hirchengraben 84 CH-8001, Zurich
web
base airports
related operators
current /stored fleet (0)
