SWISS Premium Economy in the Boeing 777-300ER to Zurich

In October 2023, we had the opportunity to experience SWISS Premium Economy on a long-haul flight from Bangkok to Zurich in a Boeing 777-300ER. Premium Economy promises more comfort and service than regular Economy Class and is aimed at travellers who value a more pleasant travel experience on long-haul flights. In this Trip Report, we provide a detailed insight into the cabin, seating comfort, catering and the in-flight entertainment system. In doing so, we examine the question of whether SWISS Premium Economy lives up to its premium claim.

How did we book our flight?

We booked our flight in SWISS Premium Economy as an award flight through the Lufthansa Miles & More program. We collected the necessary miles primarily through the Miles & More credit card. While building our house, we took the opportunity to make larger purchases with the credit card and thus collect valuable miles. We used the neobank Revolut to process payments efficiently. By topping up our Revolut account with the Miles & More credit card, we were able to make transfers and collect miles at the same time. However, this option was discontinued in 2024.

What is the cabin and seat like in SWISS Premium Economy on the Boeing 777-300ER?

The SWISS Premium Economy cabin on the Boeing 777-300ER comprises only three rows in a 2-4-2 configuration, starting in row 20. There are only 24 seats in total, making the cabin comparatively small and uncluttered. However, there is no clear separation from Economy Class, which somewhat diminishes the premium feel. The first row is directly adjacent to Door 3, with the emergency exit seats offering additional legroom—though there are no windows.

The seat itself is a highlight and marks the beginning of a new standard within the Lufthansa Group. The ZIM ZP600 allows the backrest to be reclined without obstructing the passenger behind. The wider seats, full-length armrests, and significantly more legroom provided a noticeable improvement in comfort compared to Economy Class. We found the numerous storage options particularly practical: a generous magazine compartment, holders for headphones and water bottles, and a small compartment under the armrest for smartphones or e-readers. There was also a USB port, a power outlet, and an individually adjustable reading light.

Upon boarding, we found a shrink-wrapped blanket, a pillow, an amenity kit, and a water bottle on each seat. The folding table, which folded out from the front seat or the armrest in the first row, was sturdy and offered ample space for a laptop and food. The seat was adjustable via two buttons for the backrest and legrest, with a comfortable angle. We found the legrest less practical, offering less support than we would have expected from a footrest.

Overall, SWISS Premium Economy impressed with its comfort, thoughtful details, and good amenities, even if the lack of separation from Economy Class and the shared toilets meant a slight reduction in exclusivity.

What is available to eat and drink in SWISS Premium Economy on the Boeing 777-300ER?

As soon as we boarded SWISS Premium Economy, we were greeted with a friendly welcome drink. A refreshing Appenzeller elderberry juice was available, which made a positive first impression. A bottle of still water (0.33 l) was already waiting at our seats, and shortly thereafter, the menus were distributed, giving us a good overview of the culinary highlights to come.

As soon as the seatbelt signs went off, the first drink service began. I chose a Swiss white wine served with rosemary crackers. This combination was a pleasant start to the flight and underscored the quality of the food.

About 45 minutes after takeoff, the three-course meal was served—on a tray with everything you need clearly laid out. The starter consisted of a fresh seasonal salad with balsamic vinaigrette. For the main course, we had a choice of three dishes:

• Braised beef brisket with red wine sauce, mashed potatoes, red cabbage and shallots
• Chicken breast slices with honey and mustard sauce
• Spinach and ricotta ravioli with tomato, olive and caper sauce

I opted for the beef brisket, which was wonderfully tender and flavorful—an excellent choice. For dessert, there was a selection of cheeses and a chocolate mousse with berry sauce, which rounded off the meal perfectly.

After the food was cleared, another round of drinks was offered. In addition to coffee and tea, an extensive drinks menu was available. I opted for a gin and tonic with the aromatic Gin 27 Appenzeller Dry Gin. The selection of alcoholic beverages was impressive: Millesimato Brut (Italian sparkling wine), French red wine, Campari, Smirnoff, Scotch, Baileys, or Appenzeller Quöllfrisch beer. Soft drinks, water, and juices (no ginger ale) were also available.

About three hours after takeoff, small snacks such as sandwiches, rosemary spears, fruit, and water were set out in the galley between the first and second economy cabins. Shortly thereafter, the crew distributed delicious chocolate ice cream as a sweet change.

About two hours before landing, the second service began. This included a light meal with Pad Thai, rice salad, and a small fruit plate—just the thing to refuel for your arrival at your destination.

What is the in-flight entertainment like in SWISS Premium Economy on the Boeing 777-300ER?

The in-flight entertainment system in SWISS Premium Economy aboard the Boeing 777-300ER impresses with a generous 15.6-inch screen, one of the largest in Premium Economy worldwide. The matte touchscreen impressed with fast response times and low reflections, making it very pleasant to use, even on daytime flights. A remote control was unnecessary, as the touchscreen operation worked intuitively and precisely. The entertainment included a good selection of films and series, including some new releases and entire series, ideal for long flights. The airshow offered the usual information such as route overviews and flight details, but unfortunately no exterior cameras, which we always appreciate on such flights.

Wi-Fi was free with the messaging plan, so we could easily send and receive WhatsApp messages. Tiered rates for additional internet access were offered, ranging up to CHF 35 for the entire flight.

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