Airliner World Magazine

The cover story of the March 2026 issue of Airliner World puts readers on board a landmark moment for European aviation, as Swiss International Air Lines introduces its new long-haul flagship. Reporting from the historic inaugural passenger flight, Thomas Haynes delivers an in-depth look at the airline’s Airbus A350 debut – exploring what the aircraft means for SWISS’ network, product and long-term strategy, while capturing the atmosphere of a truly milestone journey.

Beyond the cover, the issue delivers a global industry perspective. At the International Air Transport Association’s Global Media Day, industry leaders – including Director General Willie Walsh – outline the challenges and opportunities shaping 2026, from supply chain disruption to sustainability and taxation pressures.

Growth and transformation are recurring themes throughout the magazine. Wizz Air marks a major fleet milestone at 250 aircraft while signalling its ambitions for the years ahead, and Bournemouth Airport sets out plans to secure its future on the UK south coast. In the US, Pittsburgh International Airport unveils the first completely new from-the-ground-up terminal built in the country since the pandemic.

Elsewhere, the issue highlights aviation’s critical role in connecting remote regions. Aleutian Airways provides essential lifeline services across Alaska and the Aleutian chain, while PNG Air continues to tackle the unique operational challenges of serving communities across the rugged terrain of Papua New Guinea.

Leadership, legacy and history also feature strongly. Air Astana enters a new era as long-serving CEO Peter Foster prepares to step down. Lee Cross goes behind the scenes at the Kazakhstani flag carrier to find out what makes it tick - all this and more making Airliner World March 2026 an essential read.