From briefing to take-off: Gian's entry into the world of the cockpit

Gian's day starts early at 7:30 a.m. in the Zurich Airport Operations Center. Together with his father Christoph, he meets SWISS First Officer Michel Kölla and Captain Marc Albrecht, who will be operating Flight LX1830/1831 to Athens and back. Right from the start, the 16-year-old is immersed in day-to-day operations, taking part in the pilots' briefing and closely observing how the cockpit crew makes critical decisions on weather, route and fuel calculations. This gives him a first-hand understanding of the planning and coordination required to ensure a safe flight.

The excitement grows for both Gian and his father as they take the crew bus to the Boeing 777, HB-JND. Upon arrival, Gian's eyes light up at the sight of the massive aircraft. And once he takes a seat in the jump seat - the crew seat - in the cockpit, he truly becomes part of the team.

Shortly after, Gian has to leave the cockpit: it's time for the external check! This critical pre-flight inspection involves a thorough examination of the aircraft. Captain Marc Albrecht explains every detail to Gian - from the engines to the landing gear, to the slats and flaps.

Above the clouds: The flight from Zurich to Athens and back

At 9.25 a.m., the Boeing 777 with the registration HB-JND takes off, and Gian has the best seat in the cockpit. Fascinated, he listens to the radio communication and watches as Zurich becomes smaller and smaller below them. The sun shines above the clouds and for a moment Gian's dream of flying becomes reality. After a smooth flight of two hours and seven minutes, the plane lands safely in Athens. Here, Gian also explores the first class and even the crew bunk, where the pilots rest during long-haul flights.

On the return flight to Zurich, Gian is once again in the cockpit, eagerly following the approach to Zurich. Despite a strong west wind and heavy cloud cover, the Boeing 777 lands smoothly at 5:26 p.m., where Gian’s family is already waving to him. While Gian enjoyed the flight to Athens and back, his family had the chance to tour the airport.

At the end of the rotation, the entire crew gathers in front of the Boeing 777 and presents Gian with a photo book created by the crew throughout the day.

A View from Above: A Visit to the Tower with Skyguide

But the day isn’t over yet. Together with his family, Gian also gets to visit the tower, where he enjoys a unique view of the entire airport and a sunset over the runways. Here, he watches the air traffic controllers at Skyguide in action and impresses them with his knowledge of the phonetic alphabet and the tasks of air traffic controllers. With a bright smile, Gian says goodbye before heading to dinner with his family and the Kinderhilfe Sternschnuppe Foundation.

It was an emotional day that showed Gian that dreams can come true - even if they sometimes turn out differently than expected. Thanks to the commitment of the Sternschnuppe Foundation and the support of SWISS and Skyguide, Gian experienced an unforgettable day that will remain in his memory for a long time.