SWISS is a young European airline, established in 2002 as a successor to the bankrupt Swiss national carrier Swissair. In its first three years of existence, SWISS suffered huge losses, and, as a result, the management decided to merge with the larger German Lufthansa. SWISS is an integral part of the Lufthansa Group and Star Alliance, with flights from Zurich home airport to both Swiss and European regions, as well as transcontinental flights to the USA, Canada, and several Asian capitals.
SWISS Fleet
According to the latest information, in early 2020, the SWISS air fleet includes a variety of regional airplanes. For long-haul flights, the airline uses comfortable wide-body liners. In total, the Swiss carrier operates 91 aircraft, the average age of which is nine years.
Travel Classes in SWISS
Unlike its Lufthansa Group partners, SWISS follows a model with three travel classes: Economy, Business, and First Classes.
Economy Class
The Economy Class cabins on SWISS flights are designed to meet all modern requirements. The standard pitch, width of the seat, and the tilt of the backrest allow you to reach your destination comfortably. Passengers wishing to have more legroom can reserve and pay for emergency row seats in advance. On long flights, passengers can enjoy a personal entertainment system with more than 140 films, TV series, music, and much more.
Business Class
Passengers traveling in SWISS Business Class acquire all business benefits. They enjoy separate check-in counters, comfortable lounges, priority boarding, and much more.
Business Class seats inside European destinations are characterized by increased space between the rows, as well as a guarantee of privacy (the adjacent seat remains free).
Innovative, elegant, and comfortable — this is how the airline describes the renewed Business Class cabin on its intercontinental flights. The seat can be easily transformed into a workspace or a 2-meter bed if needed.
First Class
Passengers on intercontinental flights can only enjoy exceptional First Class privileges. A separate cabin in the front part of the aircraft consists of eight private luxury seats with the function of massage and transformation into a full-size bed. There is also a personal wardrobe, La Prairie cosmetic sets, and a personal entertainment system with Internet access.
Baggage and carry-on baggage in Swiss International Airlines
Thanks to the transition to the Fare Families model, SWISS passengers can not only personally select the necessary amount of luggage for their journey, but also choose the level of flexibility of the fare: from the most rigid — non-refundable and non-changeable, to fully non-refundable fares.
Carry-on baggage:
- Economy Class — 1 piece weighing up to 8 kg, the sum of the three measurements does not exceed 115 cm;
- Business Class/First Class — 2 pieces weighing up to 8 kg. The sum of the three measurements does not exceed 115 cm.
Checked-in baggage:
- Economy Class (minimum fare) — no baggage allowance;
- Standard fare — 1 piece weighing up to 23 kg.
- Business Class — 2 pieces weighing up to 32 kg. First Class — 3 pieces weighing up to 32 kg.
Excess baggage/Sports equipment
No later than 24 hours before a departure, passengers can order and pay for additional luggage or all kinds of sports equipment (sets of skis, snowboard, bicycle, fishing equipment, and so on). Dimensions and weight for each type of sports baggage are set individually by the airline.
Menus on board of Swiss International Air Lines
In addition to the standard menu on international flights, passengers with particular preferences can order meals at least one day before a departure. The airline offers specially designed menus for children and infants up to 2 years old, allergy sufferers, vegetarians, etc. For exceptional occasions — birthday, anniversary, or any significant date, the company offers different kinds of champagne and candy.
Flight Check-in with SWISS
For most SWISS flights as well as Lufthansa Group partners, online check-in opens 23 hours before a departure. It can be done on the airline's website, or you can request a new feature — automatic check-in when buying a ticket. At the moment, the airline does not charge any fees for check-in at the airport.
Flying with pets
SWISS allows its passengers to carry pets in the cabin and the luggage compartment. All documents for your pet must be completed in advance, and the terms and cost of this service must be agreed with the airline. From 01.01.2020, the airline has introduced a ban on the carriage of dogs and cats with shortened nose and face (Brachycephalic breeds) in the luggage compartment.
Loyalty Program with SWISS
SWISS passengers can become members of the largest loyalty program for passengers today — Miles & More Star Alliance. By traveling with 26 airlines, it is possible to earn award miles and upgrade your status as a frequent flyer. It is possible to exchange accumulated bonuses for various services both in the air and on the ground. It includes visiting business lounges around the world, priority boarding, upgrades, and much more.