Switzerland's Largest Airline Will Have A Striking New Business-Class Cabin For Long-Hauls

The long-awaited debut of SWISS International Air Lines' new signature in-flight passenger experience is almost here. In 2023, the carrier announced the introduction of SWISS Senses, a curated cross-cabin upgrade with a focus on comfort. The plan was to begin rolling out the new configuration in 2025 with the delivery of its new Airbus A350-900 aircraft. While we don't know the exact date the first new SWISS Senses-configured plane will take to the skies, we do know SWISS anticipates delivery of the first of 10 Airbus A350-900s this summer, with the remainder entering service as they are delivered through the end of 2031. SWISS initially ordered five of the advanced twin-jet aircraft in 2019, but the global pandemic delayed production. In 2024, SWISS added an additional five Airbus A350-900s to its order.

Offered exclusively on its long-haul fleet, SWISS Senses is the carrier's most extensive cabin redesign since the airline launched in 1931. The upgrade encompasses SWISS's first-class cabin (one of the best in the air, according to traveler reviews), in addition to its business- and economy-class cabins. Passengers who experience the new SWISS Senses product will encounter a familiar color scheme. The new cabin decor features the airline's signature palette of claret, anthracite, and beige. The tranquil backdrop complements a major change — the new design includes the introduction of SWISS's first-ever passenger suites. Offered in the first- and in some business-class cabins, the configuration is designed to mitigate the effects of jet lag while providing ultimate comfort, including human-centric lighting, an innovative approach that involves configuring artificial light sources to enhance well-being by, among other things, working in tune with circadian rhythm. The most unexpected design element, though, is the choice of seating available to passengers traveling in the business-class cabin. And by choice, we mean the cabin offers several distinct seating styles. 

In a twist, the new SWISS Senses business-class cabin incorporates a choice of seating options, including suites and double seats designed for passengers traveling together. But that's not all. The full roster includes a privacy seat, an extra-long bed, a double seat, an extra-space seat, and, of course, a classic seat. Additionally, the double seat configuration includes a retractable screen for solo travelers who prefer more privacy. Regardless of style, all SWISS Senses business-class seats offer direct aisle access. New features include a state-of-the-art entertainment system equipped with large screens and featuring OLED technology to offer the highest quality video displays, 10-inch in-flight entertainment tables, illuminated haptic seat controls, more stowage space, wireless charging, and Bluetooth connectivity. For extra comfort, all SWISS Senses business-class seats are equipped with heating and cooling technology.

All of the airline's new Airbus A350-900s will feature the SWISS Senses experience. Beginning this year, the carrier will begin retrofitting its Airbus A330-300 and Boeing 777-300ER fleets. "Our new Airbus A350s will make our fleet even more modern," SWISS CEO Jens Fehlinger said in a company statement. "This is a major investment, and a vital one to ensure that we continue to meet our customers' high expectations. With these advanced twinjets and their innovative cabins, we're bringing our long-haul aircraft fleet up to a totally new level of modernity, sustainability, and in-flight comfort."

While SWISS Senses will roll out on the airline's long-haul flights, SWISS has yet to announce specific routes. But keep your eyes peeled. The first new Airbus A350-900 to enter service will bear a specially designed livery showcasing Swiss heritage with a montage of illustrations depicting landmarks in nine cities across the country, including Basel, a beautiful and historic town for a European couple's getaway, and Montreux, home to Switzerland's oldest castle that sits on an alpine lake.