Swiss International Airlines Review

This is an airline that we rate well. Skytrax lists Swiss International Airlines (SIA) as a 4-star airline and the reviews we have had from readers are also positive.

Swiss International Airlines serves 72 destinations in 39 countries around the world, with the main hub being Zurich. At the time of writing, it operates 88 aircraft.

In a lovely touch, each aeroplane is named after a local town or city. The names are written on the aircraft fuselage, with cabin interiors showing the coat of arms of the town or city.

Swiss International Airlines A330

Swiss is part of Lufthansa and, therefore, closely linked to the latter, which is part of the Star Alliance network. Connections between parties to this network seem to run smoothly. SIA are a fairly recent airline, having been formed in 2002 after the bankruptcy of Swissair, Switzerland’s former flag carrier. The loyalty programme is the same as Lufthansa and branded ‘Miles and More’.

A new logo has been introduced with a Swiss-cross design, which ensures that everyone is aware that this is ‘the airline of Switzerland’. Linked to the new logo is the motto, ‘Our sign is a promise’.

Swiss Airlines

Whether dealing with ground staff or in the air, we have found all staff to be very professional and the airline does seem to exemplify the Swiss values of hospitality and care.

Check-in with SIA is efficient and full use is made of self-check-in facilities, with staff on hand to help if required. Queues to drop bags or check-in always seem to be small and fast moving. Online check in is available up to 23 hours ahead of the flight departure time.

SIA’s economy class travel is broken down into two categories: Europe and Intercontinental. For the short hops within Europe, a beverage is usually offered, with a snack for the longer European flights. On longer flights in the Intercontinental category, economy offers seats with adjustable headrests and ergonomic seat cushions, as well as full, hot meals and a selection of Swiss cheeses. A hot towel is also proffered just before landing.

Business class travel on SIA has recently been revamped and, on long-haul flights, the seat reclines into a two-metre-long, lie-flat, air-cushioned bed. Even more fun is the way you can adjust the firmness and turn on a special massage function! Seating is arranged to provide eight out of nine seats with direct aisle access.

All flights offer the normal choices of entertainment, an in-flight magazine and duty free shopping. Food, where served, is above average.

To cap it all, the planes are clean and washrooms well-presented and regularly checked during the flight.

Overall Swiss International Airlines is a good choice and an airline we think will continue to improve. As a plus, they are the only airline that offers Swiss chocolate!

Swiss Airlines Cockpit

Please do add your comments as we’d love to learn more about this airline.