This is How easyJet Intends to Continue to Grow in Switzerland
easyJet is ramping up its operations in Switzerland with plans for new routes, a modern fleet, and an expanded package holiday offering. As the leading airline in Basel, where it holds a 60% market share, easyJet is now focusing on growth at Zurich Airport, the largest airport in Switzerland.
The British low-cost airline currently ranks as the second-largest airline in Switzerland, boasting a 26% market share. In 2024, easyJet transported 14.4 million passengers from Switzerland and is set to introduce six new destinations from Zurich for the 2025 summer flight schedule. These new routes will include popular locations such as Palma de Mallorca, Olbia, and Edinburgh. Additionally, the airline is expanding its network from Basel, adding destinations like Seville, Rimini, and Reykjavik to its winter 2024/25 and summer 2025 schedules.
Jean-Marc Thévenaz, head of easyJet Switzerland, emphasized the strength of the airline's network from Basel, which currently serves around five million passengers annually, with growth expected to continue.
easyJet is committed to maintaining a modern and fuel-efficient fleet, with an average aircraft age of seven years. The airline plans to further reduce this average by acquiring new Neo models, which are designed to lower fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions, making them more environmentally friendly compared to older aircraft.
In addition to expanding its flight services, easyJet is also focusing on its package holiday division, easyJet Holidays. In 2024, the airline reported that 2.6 million passengers booked package holidays, with a notable preference for four-star accommodations among Swiss travelers. Popular summer destinations for 2025 include Crete, Larnaca, and Mallorca. The package holiday offering has been particularly successful in Geneva, where easyJet Holidays is the most booked service.
2025 will be a significant year for easyJet as it marks the 20th anniversary of its Basel base. To celebrate, the airline has introduced a special 'Basel' livery on one of its aircraft. Additionally, easyJet is an official partner of the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest (ESC), which will take place in Basel. The anticipation surrounding the ESC has already led to a surge in advance ticket sales, boosting demand for easyJet flights.
Thomas Haagensen, easyJet's Group Market Director, expressed confidence in the airline's growth strategy in Switzerland, noting that the brand is well recognized in Zurich. After the summer season of 2025, easyJet plans to evaluate its performance and consider adding more routes from Zurich.
With its strategic expansion plans, commitment to sustainability, and successful package holiday offerings, easyJet is poised for continued growth in Switzerland. The airline's focus on enhancing its services and celebrating key milestones reflects its dedication to becoming a leading player in the Swiss travel market.