In 2024, easyJet Switzerland celebrates its 25th anniversary in Geneva. This milestone marks a quarter-century of contribution to connectivity, the economy, and employment in Switzerland.
Founded in Geneva on April 1, 1999, easyJet Switzerland revolutionized the Swiss aviation landscape by introducing the low-cost model and becoming the first airline in Switzerland to offer low-cost flights accessible to all. The company's initial destinations included Nice, Amsterdam, and Barcelona from Geneva.
Today, easyJet is the second-largest airline in Switzerland and the top carrier in Geneva, commanding a 47% market share and offering over 90 destinations. Since its inception, the airline has transported more than 150 million passengers to and from Switzerland.
Over its 25 years of operation, easyJet Switzerland has played a significant role in developing air transport in Switzerland by connecting the country to numerous destinations in Europe and beyond. It has also stimulated the local economy by generating millions of Swiss francs in economic impact and creating both direct and indirect jobs. The company employs over 1,000 staff in Switzerland, all under local contracts.
Jean-Marc Thévenaz, Executive Director of easyJet Switzerland, stated "easyJet Switzerland embodies a true Swiss success story. Every step of our journey, from humble beginnings to becoming a major player in Swiss aviation, reflects the dedication of our employees and the trust of our customers. Together with our ground teams and crew members, we are proud to have contributed to the holiday memories of millions of Swiss."
André Schneider, Director of Geneva Airport, added, "easyJet has been an essential partner of Geneva Airport for many years. Their contribution to Switzerland's connectivity with Europe and their commitment to sustainability are invaluable. We congratulate easyJet on this significant milestone and look forward to continuing our successful collaboration in the years to come."
easyJet has always been a pioneer in sustainable development, continuously reducing its environmental footprint over the past 25 years through new technologies, policies, and fleet renewal. In 2022, easyJet launched its "Net Zero" roadmap, paving the way for decarbonizing air transport for the next 25 years.
To achieve the goal of net-zero emissions by 2050, the entire aviation ecosystem must work closely together. That's why easyJet is collaborating with numerous partners, including Airbus and Rolls-Royce, on the development of new technologies. Beyond sustainable aviation fuels and operational efficiency improvements, supporting a third pathway in Switzerland, namely hydrogen, is now essential for decarbonizing heavy transport, including air travel.