The Swiss airline Edelweiss has its second Airbus A350 at Zurich Airport was ceremoniously named “Piz PaluThe modern long-haul aircraft thus bears the name of an imposing peak in the Engadine valley. The first Airbus A350, which joined the fleet in March, was already named "Piz Bernina." The naming underscores Edelweiss' traditional practice of naming its aircraft after Swiss regions, towns, or mountains associated with the edelweiss alpine flower.
David Birrer, Chief Operating Officer of Edelweiss, emphasized that the Airbus A350 heralds a "new era" for the airline, as it is particularly comfortable and efficient. The choice of another name from the Engadine region is no coincidence, as the region stands for natural beauty and panoramic views – qualities that the new aircraft also embodies. The symbolic naming is also intended to emphasize the airline's deep roots in its home region.
The naming was also positively received in the Engadin region. Emilio Bianchi, Board of Directors of Corvatsch Diavolezza Lagalb, expressed his pride that another aircraft bears the name of an Engadin peak. As a token of appreciation, the Edelweiss region presented a picture of Piz Palü by nature photographer Romano SalisEdelweiss aircraft are often named after Swiss towns or famous mountains to demonstrate their connection to their homeland.
The Airbus A350 "Piz Palü" is used on Edelweiss' long-haul routes, flying passengers to various destinations worldwide. Edelweiss' fleet currently consists of aircraft of the types Airbus A320, Airbus A340 and now also the A350. The A350-900, considered one of the most modern aircraft on the market, is to gradually replace the older A340 aircraft, as the company announced in its fleet plans.