Swiss Airline

Check-in pointers

Lead time: Travelers flying from the United States should arrive at the airport two hours before departure. In Europe, passengers are advised to check in 90 minutes in advance for flights to the U.S.

Self-service kiosks: SWISS e-check-in machines are available in a number of locations in Europe, Africa, the Middle East and North and South America. Passengers can use these machines if traveling with carry-on luggage only.

Hub

Zurich

Frequent-flier program

Swiss TravelClub members earn miles on other airlines, including American, Cathay Pacific, Finnair, Iberia, Malaysia, Qantas, SN Brussels and Ukraine International.

Airport club or lounge

The Allegra Lounge in Zurich, featuring showers, washrooms, a cafeteria, and phone and Internet access, is open to all Swiss International passengers. Other lounges in Zurich, Basel and Geneva (and elsewhere around the world) are available for first-class and business-class passengers and TravelClub Gold and TravelClub Silver members.

Carry-on policy

Economy-class passengers are allowed one carry-on item no larger than 46 linear inches (115 cm) and 22 pounds (10 kg). Business-class passengers are allowed one item along with a laptop or briefcase. First-class passengers are allowed two items.

In-flight meal options

Swiss serves a variety of special-diet meals, including vegetarian, diabetic, gluten-free and Hindu. Orders must be placed no later than 72 hours before departure.

Service as you wish allows passengers to purchase food and beverages in Business and  Economy classes.

Unaccompanied children

Children ages 5 to 11 can travel unaccompanied. A hostess escorts them from check-in onto the aircraft, and again upon arrival, and flight attendants look after them on board.

Flying while pregnant

Pregnant women can fly without having to provide a medical certifcate up until the 36th week of pregnancy or four weeks before their due date. Otherwise, SWISS requires an official medical certificate.

Pets

Dogs and cats weighing up to 15 pounds (7 kg) are allowed in the cabin, provided they are registered on time, for the same rate as excess baggage. However, air transportation of animals is subject to a number of regulations which can differ considerably from one country to the next. All necessary documents must be provided. Heavier pets are transported in the cargo hold.

Cool or useful amenities

First- and business-class passengers on A330 and MD11 aircraft will find power outlets for laptop use.

On most of its intercontinental flights, SWISS offers a special baby baskets service for infants and babies up to eight months of age. The basket, which is free of charge, is designed to be fastened between the seat and overhead baggage container or between the seat and the wall before you.

On long flights, babies are automatically served a jar of fruit and a vegetable purée.