Swiss International Air Lines concluded the first quarter of 2026 with a positive operating result, thus maintaining its position as the most profitable subsidiary within the Lufthansa Group. While other passenger airlines in the group struggled with losses or stagnant figures in the first three months of the year, Swiss was able to further consolidate its market position.
This economic success now forms the backdrop for ongoing negotiations with the pilots' association Aeropers regarding a new collective bargaining agreement (CBA). The association interprets the figures as confirmation of the staff's high level of commitment, but simultaneously demands a significant adjustment of working conditions.
The current collective bargaining agreement (CBA) dates back to 2023 and was concluded in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to Aeropers, the agreement was based on management's commitment to implement gradual improvements over its term. The association now criticizes Swiss management for showing little willingness to honor these promises, despite record results in the recent past. The demands focus on better planning for employees' social lives and a reduction in workload. As many pilots have reached their limits, the proportion of part-time workers is steadily increasing, further exacerbating the existing cockpit staff shortage.
The strained staffing situation is having a direct impact on the flight operations of the Swiss airline. To maintain its flight schedule, Swiss is increasingly forced to purchase capacity through so-called wet-lease partners or to cancel routes altogether. The Aeropers association emphasizes that more attractive working conditions are essential to secure future pilots in the long term and prevent the exodus of skilled personnel. The negotiations are seen as a crucial moment for the future stability of flight operations, with the pilots insisting on a contract that stands up to national and international comparison.
Swiss management is now under pressure to reconcile economic success with the demands of its workforce. While the company points to the need for investment in fleet modernization and competitiveness, the employee representatives are demanding direct participation in the company's success through more stable work schedules and financial upgrades. Experts anticipate tough negotiations, as the Lufthansa Group, the parent company, closely monitors wage developments at its subsidiaries to avoid setting a precedent for other divisions.