SWISS to launch Premium Economy class on intercontinental flights.

With the beginnings of a plan in place to eventually reopen the Australian borders, we have a new product to look forward to enjoying on round the world trips next year. Starting in the fourth quarter of 2021, SWISS will start rolling out a brand-new premium economy product across their Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. All of the 777’s are projected to be refurbished by mid-2022, so we can expect to see it on all major routes in time for the popular northern hemisphere summer season next year.

SWISS have chosen German seat manufacturer ZIM to produce the new seats, which may look familiar to some, as it is the same design used on partner airline Lufthansa. Seats are arranged in three rows with a 2-4-2 layout, compared with the 3-4-3 of economy class. Featuring a hard-shell seat design to allow for 31 degrees of recline without impinging on the space of the passenger behind, as well as 39 inches of leg room (one inch more than Qantas and Singapore Airlines), a fold-out leg rest, a 15.6-inch touchscreen entertainment system, a personal reading lamp, a pair of noise cancelling headsets, a power outlet and 2 USB ports.

Initial renderings for the retrofitted product have it taking up the front part of the forward economy cabin, without being in a dedicated cabin area due to the galley layout of the 777 aircraft. Whilst we’d love to see a more private premium economy cabin, simply having more premium economy seats in the sky is very welcome as demand has exceeded supply in recent years making discount premium economy availability especially difficult. With additional inventory and the ability to combine with the Lufthansa Premium Economy product on global fare itineraries, we’re very excited to have more choice for customers in the medium term.

Premium economy customers will be welcomed onboard with a refreshing elderberry drink and throughout the flight will be offered a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Guests will also have a selection of three hot meals, which will be served on fine china. One of the meal options will be a meal inspired by the tastes of Switzerland, while another of the options will be created by the world’s oldest vegetarian restaurant, Hiltl in Zurich. There is an option to pre-order other special meal options before departure as well.

Additional benefits when flying premium economy with SWISS include double the amount of checked baggage in comparison to economy, with 2 pieces permitted at 23kg per bag. Guests will also enjoy priority boarding, an amenity kit made of sustainable materials for their journey and the opportunity to access the SWISS Business Lounge in Zurich and Geneva for a small fee, as well as the SWISS Arrival Lounge in Zurich.

Bookings have been released in premium economy class for most major routes between the USA, Asia and Europe from mid-March 2022, so get in touch with your travel consultant now to start planning your 2022 journey.