In an exciting development for travelers in both the UK and Switzerland, Edelweiss Air has announced a new direct route between Bristol Airport (BRS) and Zurich Airport (ZRH) starting in June 2025 taking over the route from Swiss Airlines. This new service aims to connect passengers from the Southwest of England to Switzerland’s largest city, opening up a wealth of opportunities for tourism, business, and culture. The new route is expected to operate on a twice weekly basis, making it easier for travelers to reach the heart of Europe with ease and comfort.
Edelweiss’ Growing Presence in Europe
Edelweiss Air, Switzerland’s leading leisure airline and a subsidiary of Swiss International Air Lines, has been steadily expanding its European footprint over the past decade. Known for its dedication to high-quality service and hospitality, Edelweiss has become a popular choice among passengers looking for a more personalized travel experience. With the new Bristol-Zurich route, the airline is catering to the growing demand for connectivity between the UK and Switzerland.
This route is also part of a broader plan by Edelweiss to strengthen its network in Western Europe. The airline currently serves over 70 destinations across more than 30 countries, with a strong focus on leisure destinations, both within Europe and overseas. With Zurich as its hub, Edelweiss offers easy connections to a range of locations worldwide, making the new Bristol route a valuable addition for travelers looking to explore Switzerland and beyond.
Bristol Airport: A Key Hub for Southwest England
Bristol Airport serves as a critical hub for the Southwest of England, providing air travel options to over 9 million passengers each year. As the gateway to popular destinations like Bath, Somerset, and Devon, the airport’s addition of a Zurich route will offer new possibilities for travelers in the region.
This new service is anticipated to be especially beneficial for those traveling on business, as Zurich is a major financial center and home to many international corporations. The route will also serve leisure travelers drawn to Switzerland’s stunning landscapes, cultural attractions, and winter sports.
Route Details and Schedule
Starting in 2025, Edelweiss will offer two flights per week between Bristol and Zurich. The specific schedule and frequency have yet to be finalized but are expected to provide convenient options for both weekday and weekend travelers. Flights will be operated on Edelweiss’ modern fleet, known for its comfort-focused cabin interiors, premium seating options, and high standards of Swiss hospitality.
Zurich Airport’s central location and excellent ground transportation connections make it easy for travelers to explore other Swiss destinations, including Lucerne, Interlaken, and Geneva. From Zurich, passengers can also connect to Edelweiss flights to popular vacation destinations like the Canary Islands, Greece, and Egypt, or connect through Swiss International Air Lines to Asia, Africa, and North America.
The Zurich Experience: What Awaits Travelers
Zurich is renowned for its blend of cosmopolitan flair and natural beauty. Travelers can explore the vibrant city center, with its world-class museums, galleries, and restaurants, or venture into the surrounding Swiss Alps for outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, and mountain biking. The city is also known for its commitment to sustainability, with green spaces, efficient public transport, and environmentally-friendly urban planning.
Switzerland’s appeal as a tourist destination continues to grow, attracting travelers with its high quality of life, safety, and reputation for exceptional service. Edelweiss’ new route will facilitate access to these attractions, encouraging more visitors from the UK to experience what Switzerland has to offer.
Benefits for Regional Economies
The launch of the Bristol-Zurich route is expected to have a positive impact on both the Swiss and British economies. For the Southwest of England, the new route offers increased connectivity that could attract Swiss tourists and business travelers, boosting local tourism and creating opportunities for regional businesses. In Switzerland, the new influx of UK tourists could stimulate the hospitality, retail, and tourism sectors, especially in Zurich and nearby alpine resorts.
Moreover, the new route could enhance business relationships, as both Bristol and Zurich are centers for finance, technology, and innovation. Enhanced connectivity between the two cities will likely support bilateral trade and collaboration, particularly in sectors like finance, engineering, and the life sciences.
Sustainability and Edelweiss’ Green Initiatives
Edelweiss Air is committed to operating sustainably and minimizing its environmental impact. As part of Swiss International Air Lines, Edelweiss participates in the group’s sustainability initiatives, which include reducing carbon emissions, optimizing fuel efficiency, and incorporating biofuels where possible. The airline also offers passengers the option to offset their carbon footprint, allowing travelers to contribute to reforestation projects and other environmental initiatives.
In addition, both Bristol Airport and Zurich Airport are actively working towards greener operations. Bristol Airport has implemented measures to reduce its environmental impact, including investing in renewable energy sources, improving waste management, and promoting sustainable transport options for passengers and employees.
