Discoveries for kids

Children travelling  Discoveries for kids 

 

With the right preparation, you and your children will be able to enjoy your flight as an exciting journey of discovery. You will find the answers to the main questions here to help you with your preparations. Should you have any further questions, the SWISS Service Center will be pleased to help.  

We will be pleased to answer the main questions about flying with babies and travelling as an unaccompanied minor.

  • Destination: What do I need to consider when choosing my destination? 

    You should adjust your choice of destination and the flying time to your child’s age. The limited freedom of movement and dry air on an aircraft are not ideal for small children. We therefore recommend shorter journeys when travelling with small children. Overnight flights are also ideal for children. There is less interruption to their sleeping pattern, and your child will find the time passes more quickly.



    Depending on your destination, we recommend talking to your paediatrician about any vaccinations or prophylaxes.


  • Preparation: How do I prepare my child for flying? 

    Children are usually happiest in situations that are familiar to them. Changes or new situations may unsettle them. Talk to your child about the planned trip.

    Make your child excited about flying. Show him the tickets and, if possible, visit the airport a few days before your flight. A story will help your child to understand the event and make it more exciting. Make up a story about the flight, including details such as check-in, boarding, taking off, landing, and the crew in their uniforms.

    The more your child knows about the various activities when travelling by air, the happier he will be before and during the flight. 

  • Costs: How much does a child’s ticket cost? 
    Reduced rates apply for children aged 2-11 on most routes. The usual Swiss service fee applies. The service charge is usually lower when booking online.
  • Hand baggage: What must I have in my hand baggage? 
    The following items will make the flight pleasanter for your child:
    • Thick socks so he can take off his shoes despite the air conditioning
    • Toys (ideally small, and not too precious)
    • Colouring or picture book
    • Favourite snacks (nothing sticky)
    • Any medication
  • Airport: How do I spend the waiting time at the airport? 

    There’s usually lots to see at an airport. There are viewing terraces where you can watch the aircraft, and exhibitions or a trip to a restaurant will help pass the time until your departure.
    Some airports also have play areas for children.

    In Zurich, these play areas are in Transit A and on Dock E, and they have toys and craft items for children of all ages. All this will help to make the time fly by!

  • Entertainment: Is there any child-appropriate entertainment on board? 

    We hand out toys on most flights. They include puzzles, colouring books, sewing books and much more.

    Our on-board entertainment system on long haul flights includes cartoons, children’s films and computer games for children. They even have their own music station – “SWISS KIDS”. The range of entertainment available in Economy Class is the same as in Business Class.

    Inflight entertainment for children
  • Food: Are there special meals on board for children? 
    We have a carefully balanced, child-appropriate menu with no spicy foods for our young gourmets. Typical children’s meals are e.g. pasta with tomato sauce or chicken nuggets. Order the children’s menu while you are making your online booking, or contact our Service Center at least 24 hours before departure.