Edelweiss Launches Direct Zurich-Bristol Flights Boosting South West UK Tourism and Business Connectivity

Edelweiss Airlines celebrated a major milestone on June 2, 2025, as its inaugural flight from Zurich touched down at Bristol Airport, opening a new direct air link between Switzerland and the South West of England.

The arrival marks the start of a twice-weekly service designed to enhance travel convenience, business connectivity, and tourism prospects for the region.

Until now, travelers from the South West needing to visit Switzerland or beyond often had to connect via London or other major hubs, resulting in longer journey times and less convenient travel options. The new Edelweiss route simplifies this by providing a local departure point, reducing travel time, and increasing accessibility for both leisure and business travelers.

Rupert Lawrie, Commercial Director of Bristol Airport, said:

This improved connectivity is expected to bolster not only leisure tourism but also trade and investment opportunities by facilitating easier business travel and cultural exchange.

Jon Chamberlain, Head of Marketing at Visit West, emphasized the importance of the new flight for tourism growth:

Tourism directly supports thousands of jobs in the South West and drives revenue in hospitality, retail, transport, and cultural sectors. A more direct flight connection to Switzerland could lead to increased visitor numbers, longer stays, and higher economic impact.

Edelweiss customers will benefit from convenient onward travel options via its sister company SWISS Airlines, with easy connections from Zurich to other European cities such as Munich and Vienna. This interline cooperation expands the travel network for passengers, increasing flexibility and choices.

Switzerland, with its status as a global financial hub, offers significant potential for trade and investment partnerships with UK regions like the South West, which is known for its technology, aerospace, and manufacturing sectors.

As this twice-weekly service settles into operation, both Bristol Airport and regional tourism stakeholders anticipate positive impacts, including higher visitor arrivals, increased business travel, and a stronger presence on the international travel map.