Swiss International Air Lines (SWISS) has rolled out a major update to its long-haul Business and First Class service, with new meals, tableware, amenity kits and comfort items designed to create what the airline calls a restaurant-style experience in the air.
The update follows the introduction of refreshed Economy and Premium Economy service earlier this year.
“After introducing our remodelled SWISS Economy and SWISS Premium Economy service products in March, we are now taking the next consistent step, with the most comprehensive service renewal in the history of our company,” said Heike Birlenbach, SWISS Chief Commercial Officer. “Our new SWISS Business and SWISS First services are designed to provide all the ambience of a superior restaurant aloft, with greater choice, more individuality and an even firmer emphasis on Swiss hospitality. Our new premium inflight services make flying with SWISS much more than just transport. Because what we’re offering here is a genuinely memorable air travel experience.”
Birlenbach said the overhaul involved everything from tableware to service processes, with new products trialled and tested extensively. “Our crews have been intensively prepared, too, to ensure that they are fully familiar and at home with our new service product,” she added. “So what our guests on board will experience is the result of a truly massive undertaking on which our many teams throughout SWISS, both aloft and on the ground, have worked with all their passion and commitment.”
What’s new in Business Class
Business Class passengers now start their flight with a Swiss-style aperitif once the aircraft reaches cruising altitude. Nuts are joined by olives or other fresh options, and drinks include the new SWISS Alpine Essence cocktail, created specifically for the airline.
The main meal service is delivered course by course, with a soup course added to the menu. Cheese and dessert selections have been expanded, and pralines from Swiss chocolatier Aeschbach are offered to finish.
For rest, new bedlinen is provided, with extras such as a Muntagnard sleepshirt and an additional seat cover available on flights over ten hours. Amenity kits co-developed with Swiss eyewear brand VIU, care products made with Soeder’s Alpine Valley scent, and upgraded headphones are also part of the refresh.
Between meals, travellers have access to a wider range of drinks and snacks throughout the flight.
What’s new in First Class
In First Class, the service has been redesigned to highlight exclusivity and presentation. Meals are now served on fine porcelain with black-accented tableware.
Before departure, travellers are welcomed with Sprüngli apéro flûtes and their choice of drink, including the SWISS Alpine Essence cocktail. Once airborne, service begins with an amuse-bouche trio, followed by delicatessen items served from a trolley at the seat. A seasonal sorbet, a five-cheese course with expanded bread options, and pralines from Sprüngli complete the main service. On some longer daytime flights, an afternoon tea with sweet and savoury treats is also offered.
Comfort items include Zimmerli pyjamas and slippers, Sisley amenity kits, products from Swiss brands Rohner and VIU, and Soeder’s Alpine Valley scent in hot towels, pillow sprays and care items. First Class seats are also equipped with new noise-cancelling headphones.
Part of the SWISS Senses programme
The changes are part of “SWISS Senses,” the airline’s broader project to update its long-haul cabins. Alongside redesigned inflight service, the programme will introduce new interiors, seats and ambient lighting across all travel classes.
