On the Ground: SWISS began operating nonstop service six days a week between San Francisco and Zurich in June. I flew on the inaugural service to Zurich, Switzerland’s financial center and largest city. As a member of Star Alliance and part of the Lufthansa Group, SWISS shares access to United Airlines’ Red Carpet Club at San Francisco. The club, about a decade old and located just past security to the right in the International Terminal, has held up reasonably well, though it does not quite match the premium offerings of some leading international carriers. There are two drink coupons available, an abundance of power outlets and workstations with desks. Food options are limited; two of the five selections on the coffee machine were out of service. On the return trip, however, the sparkling two-level SWISS lounge at Zurich Airport — a modern facility about ten minutes from downtown — made up for the modest San Francisco lounge experience. (25/30)
Pre-flight: The Airbus A340 operating our inaugural flight featured SWISS’s new business-class cabin, the first aircraft to receive this interior, which the airline plans to install across its 77-plane fleet over the coming year and next. The new product is outstanding. Boarding moved swiftly and the overhead bins offered generous storage. I started the flight with a glass of mild Swiss Chardonnay and appreciated the cabin crew: experienced, efficient and professional without being intrusive. The new business class alternates rows in 2-2-2 and 2-2-1 layouts, providing power outlets at every seat and ample personal space for work or relaxation. I had a single window seat that also provided aisle access — an ideal arrangement. (30/30)
In-flight: Shortly after takeoff the food-and-beverage service began. I enjoyed a smooth Swiss Pinot Noir sourced from lakeside, hilly vineyards. The tender veal in cream sauce, a classic Swiss dish, had already been served out, but my salmon was moist and well seasoned. For dessert I sampled a selection of fine cheeses and, naturally, creamy Swiss chocolate. During the 11½-hour flight I made good use of the in-flight entertainment system, which offered a wide mix of movies, TV shows, games, music and radio channels while many passengers worked on laptops and devices. Later in the flight I chose to sleep. SWISS’s business-class seat converts to a fully flat 180-degree bed with adjustable air-cushion support, delivering one of the more comfortable beds available in the sky. (38/40)
The Experience: SWISS’s long-haul business class performs at a level that rivals, and in some respects surpasses, the first-class cabins of other carriers. The elements under the airline’s direct control — from cabin design and crew service to seat comfort and onboard dining — operate with precise, consistent quality.
Total Score: 93/100