SWISS’ Airbus A330-300 HB-JHC is at HAECO’s facilities in Hong Kong for the SWISS Senses cabin retrofit and a scheduled C-Check. It is the first aircraft in the A330 fleet to receive this configuration, after several delays. Once the work is completed, it will return to Zurich.
SWISS Senses is the airline’s new long-haul cabin product, first introduced on its Airbus A350-900 aircraft. It is now being applied to the 14 existing A330-300s, and will later reach the Boeing 777-300ER. The A330 program was delayed compared to the initial timeline of late 2025 or early 2026. It is being carried out in Hong Kong at a rate of approximately one aircraft every six weeks, with estimated completion by late 2027 or early 2028.
The HB-JHC (MSN 1029, delivered in July 2009 and powered by Rolls-Royce Trent engines) is the first in the process. The seats and the previous cabin have already been removed, the aircraft was prepared for the technical installations and the C-Check is being performed in parallel, so what remains is the installation of the new elements, inspections and tests. When finished, the aircraft will return to Zurich International Airport.
Which SWISS aircraft is receiving the new SWISS Senses cabin?
The Airbus A330-300 registered HB-JHC (named Bellinzona), with serial number MSN 1029.
Where is the HB-JHC retrofit and C-Check being carried out?
At HAECO’s facilities in Hong Kong.
How does the seat configuration change after the modernization?
It will have approximately 227 seats: 4 in First, 43 in Business, 21 in Premium Economy and 159 in Economy (previously 236 total).
How long does it approximately take to complete each A330 in Hong Kong?
Approximately one aircraft every six weeks.
What is the estimated completion schedule for the A330 program?
It is expected to be completed by late 2027 or early 2028.
New configuration:
4 First Class seats (previously 8)43 Business Class seats (previously 45)21 Premium Economy seats (new)159 Economy seats (previously 183)Approximately 227 total seats (previously 236)
The First Class suites are heavier, so around 1.5 tonnes of ballast are being installed in the rear of the aircraft. SWISS’ A330-300s operate routes to North America, the Middle East and India. The 777-300ER modernization will be carried out after the A330s are completed.