Swiss International Air Lines frequently relies on Helvetic Airways, Switzerland’s second-largest airline, for many of its European routes. My flight from Hamburg (HAM) to Zurich (ZRH) was also operated by Helvetic Airways on the relatively new Embraer E190-E2. This was also my first time flying on this aircraft type, making it the perfect opportunity for a detailed Business Class review of Helvetic’s Embraer 190-E2 operated for Swiss International Air Lines.
Embraer E190-E2 Profit Hunter
The Embraer E190-E2, part of Embraer’s next-generation E2 family, is redefining regional aviation with its blend of efficiency, performance, and premium comfort. Dubbed the “Profit Hunter,” this aircraft boasts a cutting-edge aerodynamic design, enhanced fuel efficiency, and a quiet, spacious cabin.
- From
- Hamburg (HAM)
- To
- Zurich (ZRH)
- Distance
- 693 km
Great-circle distance between the airports.
For discerning travelers, the E190-E2 offers a luxurious experience, featuring wider seats, larger windows, and a refined interior that rivals mainline jets. With a range of up to 5,300 km, it is ideal for boutique carriers looking to provide a seamless journey on regional routes.
Helvetic Airways currently operates a fleet of 22 Embraer aircraft, including the E190-E2, E195-E2, and their predecessor models, the E190 and E195. The Embraer E190-E2 on which I flew from Hamburg (HAM) to Zurich (ZRH) is configured with 110 seats, which can be flexibly divided between Business Class and Economy Class.
Lufthansa Business Class Lounge Hamburg (HAM)
Since this was essentially a Swiss flight operated by Helvetic Airways, I had full access to the Lufthansa Group’s Business Class Lounge in Hamburg.
I have known this notorious Lufthansa Group lounge for almost 20 years. While it has received periodic upgrades over the years, it still lacks a truly premium ambiance. The available snacks were, as always, limited and uninspiring. Additionally, the lounge is consistently overcrowded in the evenings, with no available seating and many passengers standing around, unsure where to position themselves.
However, the selection of beverages was relatively extensive, catering to a variety of tastes and preferences. The staff was friendly and did their best to maintain cleanliness despite the high volume of guests.
Of course, the lounge is operated by Lufthansa, and Hamburg is a relatively small airport, so it cannot be compared to an international Swiss lounge.
Boarding and Crew
Boarding for the Swiss flight operated by Helvetic Airways started on time. The crew greeted passengers at the door with their usual friendliness, and I quickly found my Business Class seat.
However, I was surprised. This aircraft belongs to the latest generation and is frequently praised for its modernity, particularly regarding the cabin. Yet, what I saw reminded me of air travel 20 years ago. The cabin design had the charm of the early 2000s, with comparatively thick seats, an outdated aesthetic, and a rather clinical grey color scheme.
That said, the typical Swiss flight amenities were present on this Helvetic Embraer E190-E2 Business Class flight, including a complimentary bottle of Valser water and a refreshing towel.
Seat Product
The seat itself was undoubtedly comfortable, though the legroom was somewhat tight. However, the visual appeal of the seats seemed outdated, reminiscent of designs from years past. A modern aesthetic looks different.
Furthermore, the seat product appeared rather worn. The stickers on the tray tables were already faded, the windows had visible makeup smudges, and the PSU (Passenger Service Unit) panels above the seats, where the ventilation nozzles are located, were visibly dirty.
Frankly, I was disappointed with how Helvetic Airways presented itself, especially given my previously positive experiences with the airline. Moreover, this is not a good representation of Swiss, under whose name and contract the flight was operated.
Catering
The Business Class catering on this Helvetic Airways flight with the Embraer E190-E2 was identical to what is offered on Swiss flights. As expected, it was of the highest quality, beautifully presented, and tasted excellent.
A light cold dinner was served, consisting of a fresh salad, cheese, a warm and fluffy bread roll, and a delicious panna cotta dessert.
A well-paired white wine from the Swiss region of Valais was also offered. The catering was undoubtedly the highlight of the flight, truly reflecting the classic Swiss experience that passengers expect when booking a Swiss flight.
Landing
The landing in Zurich was precisely on time. After a brief taxi of just three minutes, we were already at the designated gate.
Playing loads the video from YouTube (Google).
Good, with reservations
The Helvetic Airways flight on the Embraer E190-E2, operating on behalf of Swiss International Air Lines, was rather disappointing. I expected a modern and, of course, clean aircraft. Instead, I found a somewhat worn and partially unclean cabin. The only truly Swiss-like aspect of the flight was the catering, which was excellent. All in all, the Helvetic experience does not compare to a flight actually booked with Swiss. A shame. This could be done better!
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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