SWISS International Air Lines is gearing up for a significant upgrade to its long-haul fleet, introducing “SWISS Senses”, a comprehensive revamp of its premium cabins. Set to debut in summer 2025, this initiative will see the airline overhaul its First, Business, Premium Economy, and Economy Class products, aligning its offering with the Lufthansa Group’s “Allegris” seating concept while maintaining distinct Swiss-inspired aesthetics.
Cutting-Edge Cabin Innovations
The centrepiece of this transformation is the introduction of First and Business Class suites, designed to offer greater privacy and comfort. First Class passengers will benefit from lockable sliding doors, heated and cooled seats, a spacious wardrobe, and state-of-the-art entertainment systems with ultra-wide screens. The centre suite will accommodate two passengers, reflecting a growing trend in ultra-premium air travel.
Business Class is also set for an overhaul, featuring direct aisle access for all seats, sliding doors on select seats, wireless charging, and a variety of configurations, including “double seats” for those travelling together. The cabin’s warm-toned Swiss-inspired design aims to enhance the onboard experience.
Premium Economy, already available on Boeing 777-300ERs, will continue its rollout across other aircraft. With wider seats, a 15.6-inch screen, USB charging, and improved dining options, this cabin class solidifies SWISS’ position as a leading premium airline.
Economy Class will not be left behind, featuring larger entertainment screens, improved ergonomics, and additional seat recline, catering to both leisure and business travellers seeking comfort on long-haul routes.
SWISS Officially Launches “SWISS Senses”
As of 2025, SWISS has formally introduced “SWISS Senses” across its long-haul fleet, marking a major milestone in its premium offering. The newly launched seating concepts bring enhanced comfort and modern technology to all cabins. First Class now features private suites with sliding doors, heated and cooled seating, spacious wardrobes, and ultra-wide screens, offering a truly exclusive experience. Business Class provides direct aisle access for all passengers, wireless charging, and suite-like privacy options, aligning with evolving industry standards.
Premium Economy enhances passenger comfort with wider seats, additional recline, and high-definition screens, while Economy Class benefits from larger entertainment displays, increased seat pitch, and improved ergonomics. With these upgrades, SWISS strengthens its position as a leader in premium air travel, catering to the needs of discerning travellers.
Aircraft Rollout and Fleet Modernisation
The new cabins will be introduced in phases, starting with the airline’s Airbus A350-900 deliveries in summer 2025, followed by Airbus A330-300 retrofits in late 2025 and Boeing 777-300ER modifications from 2026 onwards. The entire long-haul fleet is expected to feature “SWISS Senses” by 2028.
However, the Airbus A330-300 retrofit has posed an unexpected challenge. The new First Class seats are significantly heavier, shifting the aircraft’s centre of gravity forward and creating a “nose-heavy” issue. To counterbalance this, SWISS will add a lead weight to the rear of the aircraft. While this solution ensures safe operations, it also increases fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, prompting discussions on alternative balancing strategies.
The Broader Industry Context
SWISS’ revamp follows the broader premium travel trend seen across major airlines. Lufthansa’s “Allegris” seating concept, which shares many similarities with “SWISS Senses”, will be rolled out across its fleet. However, Lufthansa’s introduction of Allegris has faced significant certification delays, particularly with its Boeing 787 Dreamliners, where the FAA has yet to approve the new seats. These setbacks have disrupted Lufthansa’s long-haul operations, causing uncertainty for passengers booked on routes expecting the new cabin. By contrast, SWISS appears to be on track with its rollout, solidifying its reputation for efficiency and reliability in delivering a premium experience.
Meanwhile, competitors such as Emirates, Singapore Airlines, and Qatar Airways have already introduced suite-style seating, pushing European carriers to modernise their premium offerings.
The decision to offer First Class across SWISS’ entire long-haul fleet, in contrast to Lufthansa’s selective approach, highlights the airline’s confidence in sustained demand for ultra-luxury air travel. Moreover, the inclusion of Human Centric Lighting, aimed at reducing jet lag, and a revamped onboard entertainment system reflects a growing emphasis on wellbeing and connectivity in modern air travel.
Looking Ahead
As SWISS prepares for its 2025 rollout, passengers can look forward to a more luxurious, technologically advanced, and aesthetically refined travel experience. Despite operational challenges, the airline remains committed to delivering a product that embodies Swiss quality, innovation, and comfort.
With competition in premium air travel intensifying, “SWISS Senses” positions the airline as a formidable contender in the luxury aviation sector, ensuring it remains a preferred choice for high-end travellers well into the future.
