SWISS Wanderlust: Discover the special livery of first Airbus A350
The SWISS A350 Livery Captures Switzerland's Greatest Symbols
SWISS has chosen a unique way to mark the arrival of its first Airbus A350-900. The fuselage of the “SWISS Wanderlust” is adorned with iconic images such as the Grossmünster cathedral, an alpine marmot, and Freddie Mercury. The symbols and motifs used in the aircraft's livery are all related to Switzerland, underlining the airline's strong connection to its homeland. SWISS has created a unique flying art gallery as a tribute to Swiss culture.
A Flying Art Gallery
The distinctive livery of the A350-900 was designed by Swiss artist Frédéric Siegel, known for his original illustrations and animations. Thanks to his creative vision, SWISS’s first Airbus A350 has become the world’s first flying art gallery. The aircraft’s fuselage and engine nacelles feature both traditional and modern elements—presented with artistic flair and a playful twist. The illustrations were also inspired by a story by Ina Haller from Aarau, depicting a symbolic journey through Switzerland that connects past and present.
“This special livery is our flying declaration of love for Switzerland,” says SWISS Chief Commercial Officer Heike Birlenbach. “It shows how deeply we are connected to our country, while inviting everyone to discover its uniqueness in a fun and creative way.”
A Livery to Explore – and Win
The livery’s design elements also serve as a gateway to an interactive experience: the “SWISS Treasure Hunt.” Using augmented reality (AR) available at swiss.com/treasurehunt, users can discover hidden details, solve puzzles, and compete for the grand prize—a round-trip Business Class flight for two aboard the new Airbus A350.
New Aircraft, New Era
By taking delivery of its first Airbus A350-900, SWISS is entering a new era of efficiency and sustainability. Over the next few years, the airline plans to introduce ten of these modern, fuel-efficient long-haul aircraft. The first of them, bearing the “SWISS Wanderlust” livery, is set to begin operations in late summer 2025—complete with Freddie, Helvetia, and the marmot on board.
The “SWISS Wanderlust” Livery Motifs
The illustrations feature iconic landmarks and symbols from across Switzerland:
- Basel: Art Basel fair, Tinguely Fountain, and the Rhine River ferry
- Bern: Federal Parliament Building, city bears, and the “Bööötle” tradition on the Aare River
- Geneva: Jet d’Eau fountain and international organization headquarters, including the UN
- Locarno: Film Festival and the Golden Leopard leaping from the Piazza Grande screen
- Lucerne: Chapel Bridge, Swiss Transport Museum, and a paddle steamer on Lake Lucerne
- Montreux: Freddie Mercury statue, Chillon Castle, and the Montreux Jazz Festival
- St. Moritz: Horse races on the frozen lake – a symbol of winter luxury
- Wengen: Legendary Lauberhorn ski races and the Lauterbrunnen Valley
- Zurich: Bahnhofstrasse, Grossmünster Cathedral, Prime Tower, and the Guardian Angel sculpture by Niki de Saint Phalle
And also unique national symbols:
- Marmot – a beloved symbol of alpine wildlife
- Wilhelm Tell’s apple pierced by an arrow – referencing the national legend
- Helvetia – personification of Switzerland, this time in sunglasses and on a lounger
- Treasure chest – symbol of the nationwide prize competition
