Due to ongoing issues with Pratt & Whitney engines, Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) has temporarily grounded all nine of its Airbus A220-100 aircraft. The airline announced plans to use these aircraft as “engine donors,” transferring their engines to the larger A220-300 fleet to maintain operations.
At a press briefing on Thursday, SWISS Chief Financial Officer Dennis Weber stated:
“The Airbus A220 engines have begun showing signs of early wear. This requires extensive maintenance, causing unplanned groundings. Therefore, we have decided to suspend operations of all our A220-100 aircraft.”
Weber added that engine maintenance challenges are expected to continue for at least another 18 months.
SWISS was the launch customer for the A220 program—originally known as the Bombardier CSeries—and received its first aircraft in 2016. Now aiming to simplify its fleet, the airline plans to repurpose A220-100 engines for use on its A220-300s to ensure operational continuity and streamline technical processes.
Previously, the A220-100s operated London City Airport routes, which require special certification. Those services are now handled by Helvetic Airways using Embraer E2 aircraft under a partnership with SWISS.
The airline does not plan to sell its A220-100s; instead, they will remain in the fleet as non-operational reserves. Due to persistent problems with the Pratt & Whitney PW1500G engines, around 25% of aircraft equipped with this engine type worldwide are currently grounded.
