The in-house trainings and workshops as part of the SWISS Operations Leadership Development Program have officially begun. This marks the start of the cooperation between Swiss International Air Lines AG (SWISS) and the Chair of Entrepreneurship and Leadership at the University of Liechtenstein, representing a significant advancement in the further development and consolidation of leadership training for SWISS pilots.

Further Development of the Existing Leadership Journey

Through this partnership supporting the SWISS Operations Leadership Development Program, the Chair of Entrepreneurship and Leadership, led by Prof. Dr. Marco Furtner, strengthens the existing leadership development initiatives.

Based on the four pillars of Self-Leadership, Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Followership, the training program accompanies and supports SWISS Captains and First Officers throughout their entire leadership journey. The customized in-house trainings, specifically tailored to SWISS’s needs, include topics such as:

• Support in designing the SWISS Leadership Development Program
• Workshops and seminars in Zurich/Kloten and at the University of Liechtenstein
• Conceptual and academic guidance
• Consulting and coaching

Unique Demands Call for a Unique Leadership Concept

The focus of the Leadership Development Program goes beyond aviation skills and emphasizes leadership within the complex environment involving flight crews, cabin crews, ground staff, and passengers.

Leadership of employees is to be embedded as a core element in the ongoing internal training of SWISS pilots. These pilots regularly operate in changing teams, take on leadership over specialized crew members, and work together to reach common goals. All of this occurs under tight time constraints and great responsibility, where effective teamwork must be ensured and correct conduct upheld. Due to this unique setting, an equally unique leadership concept is required.

Successful Kickoff and Outlook for Synergies

This program phase was launched in June 2024 with a day-long workshop at the University of Liechtenstein, opened by the university’s rector, Dr. Christian Frommelt. The official part of the program was followed by a shared meal and a short tour of the university, rounding off a successful start to the project.

With the start of in-house trainings and workshops, the University of Liechtenstein marks a key milestone in its collaboration with the SWISS team, led by Martin Stüssi, creating ideal conditions for gaining new insights in leadership development and contributing to scientific advancement.