It was time once again for a Business Class review, this time aboard a Swiss International Air Lines flight from Zurich (ZRH) to Budapest (BUD), operated by AirBaltic with an Airbus A220-300.
Having previously experienced this Swiss/AirBaltic partnership last year, I was curious to see whether AirBaltic could continue to meet the high standards set by Swiss International Air Lines and remain a worthy ambassador of the brand.
- From
- Zurich (ZRH)
- To
- Budapest (BUD)
- Distance
- 805 km
Great-circle distance between the airports.
Check-In & Airport Experience at Zurich Airport (ZRH)
As always, check-in via the Swiss app was seamless. Arriving at what I consider to be Europe’s best airport, I parked directly in Terminal Parking P1. Within minutes, I breezed through the central security checkpoint thanks to the dedicated First and Business Class fast lane. From stepping out of the car to being airside took less than ten minutes. Efficient, refined, and flawles, Zurich Airport remains a benchmark in global aviation.
Swiss Business Class Lounge at Zurich Airport (ZRH)
The Swiss Business Lounge offered a refreshed culinary concept. Previously known for its made-to-order dishes, the live cooking station now presents freshly prepared breakfast options in larger portions, ready to grab, no waiting, no second trips.
The buffet continues to impress with an abundant selection of cold cuts, cheeses, fresh bread, fruits, and muesli. The drink options, as always, were top-notch.
Swiss proves once again why it’s the crown jewel of the Lufthansa Group. The Zurich lounge far surpasses its German counterparts in style, substance, and service.
A notable change is on the horizon: as of October 2025, Austrian hospitality group DoN will take over catering services in Swiss lounges at Zurich (ZRH) and Geneva (GVA), ending the long-standing partnership with Gate Gourmet. Known as Austria’s largest privately owned catering company, DoN’s involvement will be worth watching — especially for those of us who appreciate Austrian hospitality.
Boarding and Crew
Boarding began precisely on time, a hallmark of Zurich operations. A short delay was announced due to the arrival of a connecting group of over 30 passengers. Understandably, we waited approximately 30 minutes, with the captain assuring us that the delay would be compensated in-flight.
Meanwhile, the AirBaltic crew delivered exceptional pre-departure service to Business Class passengers, including the customary bottle of Valser water and refreshing towel. Their professionalism reflected Swiss standards in every respect.
Seat Product and Cabin Experience
The AirBaltic A220-300, as configured for short-haul operations, does not feature individual inflight entertainment (IFE) screens — expected for this segment. The seating, manufactured by ZIM Aircraft Seating at Lake Constance, offers a clean, minimalist design in soft grey and white tones, lending the cabin a fresh and modern ambiance.
Overhead PSU panels feature small screens providing live flight updates, route maps, altitude, ETA, as well as occasional promotional clips. It’s a thoughtful touch for a short journey.
Our departure from Runway 28, under a cloudless sky, was smooth and picturesque, a perfect beginning to the flight.
Catering and Inflight Service
Shortly after takeoff, we made a sweeping left turn over Zurich, with crystal-clear views stretching across St. Gallen and the Lake Constance region. Calm skies and excellent visibility made for a serene journey.
Breakfast was soon served and what a breakfast it was. I’ve enjoyed many Swiss Business Class meals over the years, but this one was truly outstanding. Visually appealing, generously portioned, and perfectly executed, all delivered by a highly professional AirBaltic crew that held its own against the best Swiss has to offer.
The meal included thinly sliced cured beef on a crisp slice of bread, accompanied by a flavorful curry-mango spread. A freshly baked croissant, creamy Birchermüesli, raspberry jam, and butter completed the ensemble. Naturally, fresh orange juice and a hot coffee rounded off the experience.
Hand on heart: is there a better short-haul Business Class product in Europe — or even globally? I struggle to think of one. Everything about this experience – despite the flight not being directly operated by Swiss – was excellent. From cabin crew to catering, the value was undeniable.
Landing In Budapest (BUD)
We touched down in Budapest under bright spring sunshine, with a temperature of 27°C, ideal conditions for mid-April.
Impressively, the crew made good on their promise: despite departing over 30 minutes late, we arrived just five minutes behind schedule. Efficiency and commitment at its finest.
Recommended
Swiss International Air Lines has entrusted AirBaltic with an important part of its short-haul network and rightfully so. This collaboration delivers a consistently premium experience worthy of the Swiss brand. The attention to detail, especially in catering and service, ensures that Swiss Business Class remains a gold standard in European aviation. This flight reconfirmed what I’ve long suspected: when you fly Swiss, even via partners, excellence is never compromised.
Roger Hohl
Roger Hohl has been at the helm of Luxvisor since 2006. From his base in Switzerland he travels to test what the luxury travel industry promises, from the seat at 40,000 feet to the last course of a tasting menu, and writes about it with an independent eye.
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