Swiss Air is Switzerland’s largest passenger airline, operating flights to destinations worldwide.
So what is their baggage policy and what do you need to know before booking with them?
Hand luggage
Let’s look at the carry-on baggage allowance. All passengers can bring one carry-on bag and one personal item on board, regardless of travel class. The carry-on bag must not exceed 55 x 40 x 23 cm and weigh no more than 8 kg. Personal items, such as a handbag or laptop bag, should be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you. These restrictions are enforced to ensure there’s enough space for passengers and their bags in the overhead compartments.
Checked bags
Swiss Air has different allowances for checked baggage, depending on the class of travel and destination. For flights within Europe, passengers in Economy Class can take one checked bag weighing up to 23kg. Those in Business Class can take two bags weighing up to 32kg each and First Class it’s three bags weighing up to 32kg each.
For long-haul flights, Economy Class passengers are able to carry one bag weighing up to 23kg. Premium Economy passengers are able to carry two bags weighing up to 23kg each. While Business Class passengers are able to carry two bags weighing up to 32kg each and First Class three bags up to 32kg each.
Frequent flyer perks
If you are a frequent flyer with Swiss Airlines’ Miles & More program, you may be entitled to extra baggage allowances.
For example, if you are a Senator or HON Circle Member, you can bring extra piece of luggage weighing up to 23kg on all flights, regardless of the class of travel. If you are a Star Alliance Gold Member, you can bring an extra bag weighing up to 32kg on all flights. If you’re a Swiss Golf Traveller (and let’s face it, who isn’t?) you get to take one set of golf equipment free of charge. “Where do I sign up?” we hear you cry!
Travelling with sports equipment
Your sports equipment can be transported free of charge if you do not exceed your checked baggage allowance with it and you didn’t book their Light tariff. You will be charged extra if you carry more items than permitted or if your baggage is heavier or bigger than the standard. You need to register your sports equipment in advance through their online Service Centre. The special rates only apply to the transportation of sports equipment items listed in their sports equipment table.
If your items weigh more than 32kg or over 3.5m in length they will not be processed at the desk. Be sure to check in your sports baggage one hour before the latest check-in time.
Travelling with musical instruments
Provided your musical instrument does not exceed the dimensions or weight of a normal hand baggage item, you can take it with you as hand baggage without prior notification.
However, if your musical instrument exceeds the dimensions or weight for hand baggage, you will have to book an additional seat for it. This kind of booking can’t be booked online. You would need to book the additional seat and your own through a travel agent or a SWISS point of sale.
Transporting your instrument in the cabin depends on the seats dimensions and the respective aircraft type. If your instrument exceeds these dimensions, it cannot be transported in the cabin but must be checked in. Your travel agent or the SWISS point of sale can tell you more. The additional seat price will be the valid ticket price at the time.
Excess baggage
It’s worthwhile to note that excess baggage fees can be quite expensive. So it’s a wise idea to pack carefully and weigh your bags before arriving at the airport. If you know you will be bringing extra bags, pre-pay for them online, as this can be cheaper than paying at the airport.
In conclusion, Swiss Air has a comprehensive baggage policy that varies depending on the class of travel, destination, and frequent flyer status. Get to know the baggage allowances before flying, so you can avoid any nasty surprises at the airport. This also means you can plan that extra space for all the lovely Swiss chocolate you’ll bring back for us, I mean for yourself of course.
