Swiss has announced Jens Fehlinger as their new CEO, marking a shift in leadership for the Lufthansa subsidiary. Fehlinger will officially take over the position on October 1st, with Heike Birlenbach temporarily leading the airline until then. Fehlinger comes from building up Lufthansa City Airlines and will manage the summer business before transitioning to Swiss.
Lufthansa City Airlines aims to compete in the European short-haul market with competitive prices and increased domestic flights. Despite criticism for potentially compromising employee benefits, Fehlinger is set to navigate these challenges. With Swiss being a profitable and reputable arm of the Lufthansa Group, his role is highly sought after by ambitious managers within the company.
Fehlinger’s arrival at Swiss signifies a major shift for him, moving away from low-cost airlines to a premium product. With Swiss’s strong market presence in Switzerland and stable income, Fehlinger’s focus will be on maintaining Swissness and ensuring the airline’s success. Despite being a newcomer to Switzerland, Fehlinger is tasked with strengthening customer relationships and maintaining the airline’s profitability.
As Swiss continues to innovate, Fehlinger will oversee the introduction of new A350 aircraft next year, offering enhanced travel experiences and fuel efficiency. With ample room for growth in customer service and overall travel experience, Swiss is poised for continued success under Fehlinger’s leadership. Despite potential challenges, Fehlinger’s experience and strategic vision will be crucial in driving Swiss forward in the competitive airline industry.