Finnair or SWISS – Which Business Class is best?

Finnair and SWISS already offer competitive round the world Business Class fares but with the launch of Finnair’s newly redesigned Business Class cabin, how does it compare to SWISS?

Finnair have renewed Business Class seats on their entire A350 & A330 long-haul fleet rolling out during 2022-2023. Bringing their signature Nordic experience, the new Collins’ AirLounge seat is a 21” fixed contoured shell design. This means the seat doesn’t recline but does convert into a fully flat 2m bed and still provides a large enough space for comfort and privacy. 

The A350 has a 1-2-1 layout while the A330 alternates between 1-2-1 and 2-2-1. Single travellers will prefer the individual seats offering more space and storage while couples can select the double seats and lower the divider to share the journey. There is no additional charge for seat selection.

SWISS operates on B777, A330 & A340 and offers a Business Class seat as a spacious workplace with a 25.5” width, considerably wider than Finnair, that converts into a fully flat 2m bed. For extra comfort, you can experience the built-in massage function.  Their alternating 2-2-1 seat layout means single travellers will want to select the throne seat for an additional fee, offering more storage along with both window and aisle access.   

Your arrival service with either airline will be completely seamless with priority check-in, boarding and lounge access, and be treated to a Champagne upon boarding. If you need extra luggage space Finnair have a larger allowance with 3 x 32kg bags of checked luggage while SWISS only allow for 2 x 32kg bags. 

To pass the time on your journey, watch the extensive range of movies and tv shows on the larger 18’ Finnair entertainment screen compared with SWISS 16” screen. Both offer noise cancelling headphones, Finnair being a product of BOSE. 

SWISS offers a culinary experience, Taste of Switzerland, to highlight top chefs and cuisines from Swiss regions, served on a linen lined table. Finnair has a similarly delectable offering of 6 courses and an additional second meal for longer flights, served on chinawear from Finnish designer, Iittala. All meals are accompanied by an extensive selection of wine, champagne, beer, spirits, juice and soft drink with SWISS also offering unique Swiss chocolates after dinner. 

Both airlines provide a useful amenities kit including eyeshades, earplugs, socks and additional items to make your journey more comfortable. Finnair’s kit is also accompanied by a Marimekko collectable design bag you can take with you when you depart.

With SWISS Business Class Global Fare from $6760 and Finnair Business Class RTW Fare from $7727, it will be interesting to see if the new Finnair cocoon seat design provides a new level of comfort for passengers. The feedback so far is even without the ability to recline, the cocoon shape actually provides more space to relax and stretch out. 

Contact our airfare specialists today to discuss your round the world travel plans.