First flight to Zurich takes off
Published: 30 March 2011
Today, Wednesday 30th March sees the first flight take off from Cardiff Airport to the Swiss city of Zurich.
Passengers on the Helvetic Airways service will now be able to fly direct from Cardiff to Zurich four days a week. Flights will operate from Cardiff on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.
The route uses the 100 seat Fokker aircraft and it is the first time during the airport’s history that it has operated a direct route to Zurich. It is hoped the service will attract business and leisure travellers to and from Wales as well as south west England.
Arriving on the first flight from Zurich will be Swiss tour operators, media and VIPs visiting Wales for a two day visit of the region.
Patrick Duffy, managing director of Cardiff Airport, said: “Today will see the first flight arrive and return to Zurich with celebrations at the airport as we welcome guests from Switzerland and Helvetic Airways.
“Research conducted by the airport and the airline demonstrated that Zurich is a sought after business destinations from Wales and we are hoping the new service will be welcomed by the business community at both ends of the route.”
The new service will enable local businesses with links to Zurich to fly direct to the city.
Schmid Telecoms UK Ltd has its headquarters in Zurich, and has a number of other offices around the word including its UK office which is based in Dinas Powys, Cardiff.
Managing director of Schmid Telecom UK, Peter Coleman travels to the company’s headquarters in Zurich at least once a month. “This new service will be hugely beneficial as travelling direct from my local airport is convenient, saving time and ultimately money. This means my business will increase efficiencies so I’m delighted with the launch and will be a regular customer”
Bruno Jans, CEO of Helvetic Airways AG, said: “We are pleased the first flights are selling well especially from Zurich to Cardiff showing a real interest in Wales for both business and leisure purposes.
“We have seen a good response to our promotional flight offer of £99 one way including taxes and charges and hope the route continues to do well as visitors to both Switzerland and Wales see what each respective destination has to offer and book a return visit.”
Helvetic Airways will offer flights from £99 one way, including all taxes and charges for a limited period. Tickets can be purchased online at www.helvetic.com.