Flight check: Swiss

Published: 01/05/2006 - Filed under: Archive » 2006 » May 2006 » Tried and Tested » Tried & Tested » Airlines » Tried & Tested » Airlines » Swiss » Import errors »

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First impressions I arrived at London City Airport at 0735 for my midweek 0825 flight to Zurich. The new link from central London to the airport via the DLR (now just three stops from Canning Town which is connected to the Jubilee underground line) cut down my usual journey time impressively:from Waterloo to London City it took me less than 30 minutes. One Swiss check-in desk was serving business class passengers and I waited my turn behind three other people. This took 5-10 minutes. When I was served it was by a courteous attendant who presented me with a £4 refreshment voucher, which I exchanged for a pastry and drink at the café (I had to make up the money; £4 doesn't go far here).

Boarding At 0802 my gate number (2B) appeared on the screen and I made my way through security and the departure lounge within five minutes. Gate 2Bis next to the lounge and is a small room which, when I reached it, was packed with standing room only. After queuing to enter I squeezed through to find a place to stand and wait for boarding to be announced. Fortunately it was called five minutes later and we all surged down the stairs to the waiting bus. It was a short journey to the plane and I reached my seat (1A) at 0830. I was immediately offered a glass of water or orange juice and a choice of newspapers.

The seat Seating on this Avro RJ85/100 is configured 2-3. Seats are upholstered in dark blue leather with a modest recline and I found mine to be perfectly comfortable for the one-hour, 15 minute flight time. The first eight rows were dedicated to business passengers and the cabin was only around one third full (I had two seats to myself), with a curtain separating us from the economy section.

The flight After leaving the stand at 0840 we were airborne 15 minutes later.After another 15 minutes a breakfast tray was presented, consisting of a bowl of yoghurt and fruit along with a packet of muesli and a warm roll with jam and cheese. It was a satisfying enough breakfast (although I was very hungry and would have preferred something hot).

The cabin attendant tried to take my tray while I was still eating, which I certainly wasn't going to allow, but to her credit she was mortified when she realised her mistake. After the meal I was offered a Swiss chocolate and a refreshing cold towel. During the flight service was excellent and felt more personalised than usual on short-haul business class flights.

Arrival We landed on time at 1119 (local time) and took a short bus ride to the terminal. With hand luggage only, I was able to walk straight through immigration to arrivals.

Verdict A very good flight with excellent service, upholding the Swiss reputation for punctuality. Now that London City Airport has much improved connections to the capital's transport network, it is my preferred airport for such short trips.

Price Online fares from London City to Zurich start at £307 for a return in business class. Economy fares typically start from £186 for a return. Visit swiss.com.

Sarah Maxwell