SwitzerlandStar AllianceMiles & More (shared with Lufthansa Group)International Airlines Serving the US
SWISS International Air Lines Overview & Policy Summary
SWISS is the Swiss flag carrier and part of the Lufthansa Group. Zurich is one of the most efficient hubs in Europe — consistently ranked among the best airports in the world for punctuality and passenger experience — which makes SWISS a reliable choice for connections into Europe, Africa and India.
Key Travel Facts & Insights
- Carry-on: One cabin bag up to 8 kg (17 lbs) plus a personal item in Economy; two pieces in Business and First..
- First checked bag: Included on Economy Classic and above for transatlantic travel; charged on Economy Light.
- Changes: Light is non-changeable; Classic and Flex change for a fee or free plus fare difference..
- Check-in: 23 hours before departure..
SWISS help topics
Detailed answers on the ten things travellers ask most after booking.
SWISS at a glance
Baggage
One cabin bag up to 8 kg (17 lbs) plus a personal item in Economy; two pieces in Business and First.
Full baggage rulesChanges
Light is non-changeable; Classic and Flex change for a fee or free plus fare difference.
How to change a flightMiles & More (shared with Lufthansa Group)
Miles expire after 36 months for basic members.
Loyalty programme guideSWISS fare types
| Fare | Includes | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Economy Light | Cabin bag only. | No checked bag, no changes, no seat selection. |
| Economy Classic | One checked bag and paid seat selection. | Changes for a fee plus fare difference. |
| SWISS First | Private suite, dedicated First lounge at Zurich with a private security lane, chauffeur transfer. | Available on A330, A340 and 777 aircraft only. |
Hubs
- Zurich (ZRH)
- Geneva (GVA)
Airbus A330 and A340 and Boeing 777 widebodies with A220 and A320-family narrowbodies. SWISS was the launch operator of the Airbus A220.
Popular routes
- New York (JFK) → Zurich (ZRH)
- Boston (BOS) → Zurich (ZRH)
- Los Angeles (LAX) → Zurich (ZRH)
- Chicago (ORD) → Zurich (ZRH)
SWISS frequently asked questions
How short a connection is safe at Zurich?
Zurich publishes minimum connection times around 40 minutes and generally meets them — it is among the most punctual and compact major hubs in Europe. That said, build more buffer if you are checking bags or clearing passport control.
Compare with other international airlines serving the us
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