Connected Kvarner and Switzerland: The first SWISS aircraft landed in ZL Rijeka

The first aircraft of the Swiss national airline has ceremonially landed at Rijeka Airport on the island of Krk SWISS International Air Lines from Zurich.

This historic flight officially established a new seasonal air route that directly connects Switzerland and Kvarner for the first time, opening up significant commercial and operational opportunities for the regional tourism sector.

The arrival of the aircraft was marked by a traditional greeting on the runway. Passengers and crew were welcomed by representatives of the airport and local tourist boards, with a performance by a folklore group from the island of Krk and appropriate indigenous welcome gifts.

Strategic importance for the B2B sector and Kvarner

For travel agencies, tour operators and hoteliers in Kvarner, the introduction of a line by a reputable carrier like SWISS represents a strong incentive to attract guests with higher purchasing power.

The Swiss market is known for its demand for premium services, high-end camping, health tourism and top gastronomy, which perfectly coincides with the long-term strategy of repositioning Kvarner as a high-end destination (also known as a luxury or elite destination).

In addition to bringing guests directly, this line also works in the opposite direction. Since Zurich Airport (ZRH) is one of the largest and most important European and global air hubs, passengers from Kvarner, Istria and the wider region now have easier intercontinental and European travel through the flight network of SWISS and partner companies within the Star Alliance group.

The Rijeka Airport Management emphasizes that the arrival of this renowned partner confirms growing international interest for the region and thanked all partners who contributed to the realization of this project, which is crucial for the tourism and economic development of Kvarner.

Key operational information about the line:

• Operating period: From the end of June to the end of August.
• Frequency: Twice a week, Mondays and Fridays.
• Flight duration: A little over an hour (about 1h 20min).
• Aircraft type: Flights are operated by Embraer aircraft.

Return ticket prices on the direct Zurich - Rijeka route, they range from 230 euros to 270 euros for basic economy class, depending on the occupancy of the aircraft and in relation to the usual seasonal fluctuations.

During the peak summer season (July/August) typical prices in more flexible tariffs are between 320 euros and 510 euros.

For travel agencies, tour operators and DMC managers in the region, we present an overview of sales channels and commercial conditions for contracting this line within the Lufthansa Group (of which SWISS is a full member).

Sales channels for agencies

Travel agencies and tour operators can book and issue flights through standard and advanced distribution systems:

GDS systems (Global Distribution Systems)

The line is fully visible and available for booking in the Amadeus, Saber and Travelport (Galileo) systems under the two-digit airline code LX.

Lufthansa Group Partner Plus and NDC Smart Offer

Agencies that use NDC (New Distribution Capability) channels or the direct interface of the Lufthansa Group can access lower distribution fees (avoidance of GDS surcharges) and specific promotional prices intended exclusively for registered partners.

Group rates (Group Bookings)

Considering that the line is ideal for organized groups (sailors, wellness and camping groups from Switzerland), standard group booking rules apply.

A group is considered to be a group of at least 10 passengers traveling together in the same direction on at least one common flight.

Agency benefits offered are: flexible deposit payment terms, the possibility of late delivery of passenger names (usually up to a few days before the flight), and the right to free name changes within a certain period before departure.

Reservations are made through the Lufthansa Group Book-a-Group portal or by sending an official inquiry to the authorized sales office (GSA) for the region.

Tariff classes and price structure

On this line, SWISS offers three standard tariff packages in economy class, which enable agencies to package arrangements more easily:

• Economy Light: The most favorable tariff that includes only hand luggage up to 8 kg. Great for shorter weekend city-break packages.
• Economy Classic: Standard tariff that includes checked baggage (one piece up to 23 kg). A key option for tour operators selling standard 7-day or 14-day packages in Kvarner.
• Economy Flex: Includes baggage, free seat selection and maximum flexibility with the ability to cancel or change flight dates without penalty, ideal for business travelers and premium clients.

SWISS Business Class is also available on all flights, offering increased comfort (a free seat next to the passenger), greater luggage capacity, access to business lounges in Zurich, and priority boarding and baggage claim.

Sources: SWISS, Croatian Aviation, Rijeka Airport