Air travel pricing is a hot topic for everyone who is planning to travel. As coronavirus safety measures are becoming more lenient now, more and more people are willing to book flights.

If you are one of those that plan to fly during the Covid-19 pandemic, there are some things you need to consider.

Air travel immediately puts you into  close contact with many people and also different frequently touched surfaces on the airplane and at the airport. This fact can be very annoying, especially if you need to fly frequently.

If you are fully vaccinated, then you have  good protection against the coronavirus. This can help you be more flexible in terms of your air travel plans as you don’t need to worry much about catching the virus during your air travel.

However, wearing a mask and keeping a safe distance is still recommended for those people who are already vaccinated.

Those who are not vaccinated should take the necessary precautions when it comes to flying during a Covid-19 pandemic. Everyone who wants to fly now should take these precautions when booking their flight, spending time at the airport or when they are on their airplane.

If you want to have a safe air travel experience, in this article we will offer you several tips to guarantee yourself safe flying during times of pandemic.

 

Does Covid-19 pandemic affect airfares?

Everyone will agree that 2021 was marked by the coronavirus pandemics which influenced in one way or another a variety of industry sectors.

The Covid-19 pandemics affected the aviation industry considerably as well. For this reason frequent flyers are wondering whether the flight prices will rise as a result of coronavirus.

So, yes – there is an increase in airfares as a result of Covid-19 worldwide pandemic. According to travel experts airfares are expected to increase throughout 2021 after the pandemic waves decrease.

In general, airline pricing depends on several factors and airlines take them into consideration when deciding their flight prices.

Airline prices are closely linked to the customers’ current motivation to travel and the price they are willing to pay for a flight ticket.

The prices of flight tickets are determined depending on a combination of scientific combinations and models. This calculation is made with the help of machine learning  and algorithms by experts in airline pricing and revenue management.

They are also determined on the basis of the different airline products (whether we have business class or premium economy class), the different available airline itineraries, flight duration, departure time, arrival time.

This information is then compared with other airline information such as historical data, seasonality. Also  different market indicators are taken into consideration- upcoming local events, type of airline competition on a certain flight route and other indicators.

Airline pricing and revenue management experts take into consideration these indicators to create the most accurate prognosis of prices. But these models for calculation the airline industry has been using for years are now changing because of the Covid-19 global pandemic.

Airlines consider all of the above factors and  compare them with different indicators, one of which is airplane capacity. The purpose of this is to achieve a perfect balance that meets both the needs of the airline  and the traveler.

We offer you some helpful tips for a safe air travel experience during Covid-19 pandemic.

Tips how to fly in a safe and convenient way during a period of pandemic

Guarantee your safety when booking your flight

If you are flying on leisure and not on business, then you will have more flexibility when it comes to determining your flight itinerary. So, in this way you can avoid certain circumstances that put you in a higher risk of contracting Covid-19.

By being flexible you can have a safe flight no matter what destination you are flying to.

For example, when booking your fight try to avoid fights with long layovers, if possible. Also, choose a destination that is relatively close to your departure location. Choose the closest destination possible.

Another thing you can do is check the website of the airline you are flying with to get an idea about the safety measures they require from their passengers. You should also try to find out information about what safety measures they are taking  on airplanes and terminals.

One of the key things every airline should do during times of pandemic is to introduce basic proper safety measures to ensure maximum safety for the health of their customers. 

These include : 

• obligatory masks 
• maintenance of social distancing in different ways
• following special cleaning protocols 
• available options for a contact-free check-in method for travelers

Each airline introduces different safety measures regarding the Covid-19 pandemic. Some of the measures are more strict and some are more lenient.

Most air companies achieve proper social distancing on their aircraft, at airport counters and waiting lines by introducing physical safety measures such as – protective barriers, plexiglass dividers between the aisles in  airplane cabins, keeping middle seats empty on each row of seats.

Some of the more advanced technological systems airlines use to ensure the safety for their passengers are airplane ventilation systems. They work by circulating and filtering the air inside an airplane cabin. In this way the spreading of any virus in the aircraft cabin is prevented.

Guarantee your safety before and during the flight

The requirement to wear a mask in the right way is something all of us know. So, forgetting your mask is one of the things you should try not to do when preparing for a flight.

Airline passengers are required to wear a mask during the entire flight except when they are drinking and eating.

The second important thing is to keep  good hand hygiene by  bringing with yourself  hand sanitizer and avoid touching your face.

The third important thing to do is to keep as much distance as possible while being at the airport terminal. Hundreds of people pass through an airport every day, so you will want to ensure your safety while waiting for check-in at your airline’s airport.

Enjoy a taste experience on the very highest level. Thanks to the skills of renowned top chefs, the quality of the freshest products and the service provided by an award-winning Swiss Air Business Class.

Their services are individual and based entirely on your requirements. After a drink to welcome you on board, you can enjoy our award-winning cuisine as a light Quick Meal or in several courses, accompanied by fine wines. And if you feel peckish in between, they have a selection of snacks and ice creams to tempt you.

Depending on the time of day, they will pamper you with an extensive breakfast, lunch or evening meal. Their dishes are made freshly and to the highest Swiss quality. To go with them, they offer you an extensive selection of beverages, including Champagne, and the personal service of the SWISS Business Crew.

SWISS Taste of Switzerland is served on all flights departing from Switzerland. This award-winning gastronomic concept lets top Swiss chefs interpret the culinary variety of their country in their own unique ways. The results are seasonal dishes from Swiss regions that impress and delight. 

Special meals

Flight guests with special dietary needs can pre-order selected special meals. The service is available in all classes of service on long-haul flights and in SWISS Business on selected European flights. 

A sealed meal is our newest addition, available on long-haul flights departing from Switzerland in the framework of a test. You can save your special meal preference in your ​online profile for future bookings. 

When booking your flight, you must be logged in under “Manage My Booking” so that your menu preferences are applied.

Air travel offers you amazing experience, especially when you have planned carefully everything in advance. Who doesn’t want to travel in a convenient and relaxing way? 

It’s not a good thing to feel worried about something before you have even reached your flight terminal. But it’s true that sometimes air travel can be stressful, especially if you are a beginner flyer. 

Fortunately, there are some things every traveler can do before their departure date that ensures a pleasant air travel without any obstacles. We offer you a couple of tips to follow, if you want to guarantee yourself an enjoyable air travel experience. 

Top tips for a hassle-free air travel

Book a business class flight

Choosing business class flights definitely guarantees you a high level of comfort, convenience and privacy. Business class cabins are equipped with everything a frequent traveler needs for a comfortable and trouble-free flight.

That indeed includes :

• convenient seat layout 
• lack of noise 
• quality food and drinks 
• complimentary amenities 
• in-flight entertainment

One of the reasons why the business class cabin is comfortable is that it offers comfortable seats with modern extras that can become lie-flat. And this definitely contributes to a better sleep during the flight.

Business class seats also offer more leg room, wide arm rests, pillows and blankets that can make any type of long flight more bearable.

So, if you can afford the price of a business class ticket or have enough airline miles to book a seat in business class, don’t hesitate to do it. Investing in a business class ticket is an investment in your own comfort, health as well as productivity.

Don’t forget the essentials

Preparation is a key part of every successful and enjoyable trip. Before heading to the airport to catch your flight make sure to check again if all the necessary documents such as passport, tickets and visa are with you. 

If you are flying to a country where you need a visa, make sure to bring with you a hard copy of your visa. Even if you are required to have a notification attached to your passport showing that you have a visa, it’s still recommended to bring a copy of your visa. 

A useful thing to do is to memorize the number of your passport in the case of theft or loss.

Pack a lighter baggage

When it comes to air travel you probably know that every little detail of your baggage matters as it can add a certain weight. As baggage weight is really important, the more minimalist approach you apply in packing your baggage, the better.

One of the main things that will help you achieve a lighter weight of your baggage is to pick up a lightweight suitcase. A lightweight suitcase will allow you to add a little bit more essential items to your baggage. It can also save you from the possibility of being charged for  excess baggage.

When choosing a suitcase design is recommended to pick such with 8 wheels and 360 degree technology. This will help you carry your baggage through the airport in an easy way.

If you aren’t going on a long vacation and you pack only cabin carry-on baggage, you won’t need to wait at the baggage reclaim area upon arrival.

And you will save much time when passing through the check-in counter. This means you will have an extra time to continue on your route to your destination and enjoy your vacation.

Download your airline’s app

Now almost all of the major air carriers have their own mobile apps. Airline apps offer frequent flyers convenience as you can use them on the go to find different information concerning flight dates. For example, you can check on an airline app if there are cancelations and flight delays.

Go early at the airport

Flying can be a stressful experience, especially the moment when you are in a hurry to catch a flight.

No matter where you are flying to, arriving at the airport up to 3 hours before departure is an old proven way that will guarantee you a peace of mind. 

Leaving yourself enough time will save you from stressful situations that air travel usually includes. Fortunately, you can check online to see how early it’s recommended to arrive for your flight. 

After you know the time you have to arrive, it’s good to arrive just a little bit earlier than time in case something unforeseen comes up.

Waiting for a shuttle to the airport is not always a convenient option, especially if you are in a hurry to catch your flight. Using a valet service is a better option instead. 

Frequent flyers can use a complimentary valet service, so you have another reason to join an airline’s frequent flyer program. If you choose a valet service, you just need to pull up your car to the terminal, give your keys to your airline’s valet and proceed to check-in.

Check in online

If you want easy and smooth air travel, then you should check in online rather than at your airport’s check-in counter.

When doing online check-in, you need to print your ticket or save it on your smartphone. If you choose this option, it’s recommended to check-in at least 24-48 hours in advance. 

This option also saves you valuable time when going through the check-in desk. After that you can continue quickly on your way to airport  security.

In case you forget to print out your ticket or save it on a device before arriving at the airport, you can print your boarding pass at an airport kiosk.

Skip the security line

It’s true that going in the airport security line takes time. Thankfully, there is one way you can avoid it and save your time to enjoy your air travel. 

By becoming a frequent flyer and acquiring an elite status on your air company, you can get the chance to skip security lines altogether when boarding your next flight.

To get advantage of this option, you need to acquire enough frequent flyer points . But what to do, if you aren’t a frequent flyer but you still want to save time when going through airport security. The answer is airline credit cards.

There are certain types of platinum credit cards offered by airlines that offer you status perks, even if you haven’t collected much air  travel points. By having such a card, you can simply skip your airline security airline after passing through check-in.

Get an exclusive lounge access

One of the best ways to make your air travel less stressful is to get free airport lounge access. Spending your waiting time between flights in a lounge is better than spending it at an airport waiting area. Airport lounges help you unwind in a relaxing environment before your flight  

Getting free access to an airline’s lounge depends on different factors. Flyers with an elite status and club members are among those passengers who get premium lounge access. 

You can get lounge access by the following ways :

• joining a loyalty program.
• booking a premium ticket. 
• paying for an annual membership. 
• entering a lounge as a guest of someone else who has already got exclusive lounge access. 

Another option is to buy a day pass for a certain lounge which costs around $50.

Airline lounges feature a cozy and comfortable setting plus a variety of amenities and premium services that make your waiting time enjoyable.

Priority lounge pass offers you many opportunities to spend your free time when waiting for a connecting flight. 

At airport lounges you can :

• enjoy a refreshing drink or a delicious meal 
• rest in comfortable lounge chairs 
• use free Wi-fi 
• get some computer work done 
• watch TV or read a magazine 
• get a shower 
• catch up on your sleep or even enjoy spa therapy

Prepare yourself

Pre-flight

Preparation is important when it comes to air travel. Before you reach the airport’s conveyor belt, you need to make sure that you have all the things you need within reach so that you won’t lose time trying to find them. Keep your most important things accessible.

When going through a check-in counter and then through the scanner at  security lines it’s convenient to carry all of your necessary items handy. 

Avoid wearing metal jewelry, a jacket, a hat or have spare change in your pockets when going through the scanner. It’s recommended to package the liquid part of your luggage in a small plastic bag.

In-flight

Another way to be prepared for any flight is to bring with you on board a separate small package of essentials (also called travel kit). Travel kits can help you survive a long-haul flight without any issues.

This small bag need to contain the most essential things you may need during your flight: 

• smartphone 
• noise-canceling earbuds 
• credit card 
• toothbrush and toothpaste 
• small packaging of moisturizing cream 
• eye mask 
• sunglasses 
• ear plugs 
• small packet of dry and wet handkerchiefs

When you take your seat, you can put your travel essentials bag in the seat storage compartment or on top of your carry-on baggage which is usually placed under the seat. 

In this way when you need a certain item, you won’t need to reach over to your overhead bin and start searching for it.

Most airlines offer their business class passengers different complimentary items such as – noise-canceling headphones, eye masks and ear plugs to help them spend a comfortable flying time. But it’s always good to bring your own essential items in your carry-on bag in case the air cabin staff doesn’t provide you with them.

Quality noise-canceling headphones can be a real life-saver when you are flying. Not all airlines offer business class passengers complimentary headphones that block the surrounding noise. For this reason it’s recommended to bring your own pair during your flight.

We will also recommend you to bring over-the-counter anti-nausea medications or medications against vomiting. Bringing a decongestant it’s also good, if you suffer from a blocked nose, as airplane air is usually dry because of the cabin’s filtration system.

Be proactive

If something goes not according to plan, it’s recommended to express your complaint with an airline. You should tell them not only what went wrong, but also what they should do to improve the situation. You can suggest an alternative option. 

The level of customer service depends on the airline but most flight attendants are willing to help.

Secure your valuable belongings

As you know safety is important when traveling. In order to feel safe during your long-haul flight, make sure to put your most valuable items such as your smartphone and wallet in a deep pocket inside your carry-on bag.

Another option is to place your most precious belongings in such a pocket that a thief won’t be able to reach without waking you.

Choose the aisle seat

When booking a flight most air companies and booking agents offer you the option to request a seat assignment. This is a great option, especially for those who are traveling on an airplane for the first time.

If you are scared of flying or you are prone to claustrophobia, it’s recommended for you to pick up the aisle seat. By choosing to sit at an aisle seat, you will be able to stand and move around the airplane cabin more easily.

In addition to that, you won’t bother your neighbor. And you will be far from the window where you will be more likely to watch views above the clouds.

Be picky about your media intake

If you feel anxious when thinking of flying, it’s good to avoid all types of news, movies, videos or even images related to airplane crashes before and during your flight. 

You should not forget that the largest part of all flights arrive safely. Try to remain positive and think about the things you have planned to do when you arrive at your end destination.

Dress comfortably

Comfortable clothes are something recommended when talking about long-haul flights. So, when getting ready for a flight, make sure to prepare your most comfortable travel outfit to wear during the flight. 

You should be able to sleep in those clothes. Pick up something that is both elegant and comfortable. It’s also recommended to bring a light jacket or a coat in case you feel cold in the airplane cabin.

Sitting at the front part of the airplane definitely guarantees you a pleasant and memorable air travel experience. First class has become a symbol of luxury air travel.

If you are a first-time passenger in first class, you are likely to have many questions. In this article we will cover some of the important things you should know, if you want to fly in first class.

First class travel provides you with the ultimate comfort you need when flying. You know that long-haul international flights can be exhausting but by choosing first class travel, you can be sure that you won’t experience any of the effects of long flights.

By flying in first class you can really get a world class air travel experience. If you want to feel pampered, relaxed and productive during your entire flight, first class flights are the perfect choice for you.

What is first class?

For those of you who are just entering the world of first class travel, first class flights offer the largest space and the most comfortable seats for passengers compared to the other air travel classes. First class cabin is available on domestic and short haul flights but it’s not the same as first class cabin on international flights.

If you choose to fly in first class on a domestic route, the seats will still be large and comfortable but they won’t have the same compartments and features you will find on international long-haul flights. 

The first class seats on long duration flights are more spacious than those on shorter first class flights.

First class cabin has rows of just four seats while regular economy class offers rows of ten seats. The seat configuration of economy class is 3-4-3 while the seat configuration of first class is 1-2-1 or 1-1-1.

First class flights offer the highest quality air travel services and amenities that have no analog in the airline industry. Depending on the airline and the flight type sometimes there can be some similarities between first and business class. 

Some airlines completely removed their first class and merged it with business class. So you should know that business class is the highest air travel class of certain air companies.

What is the cost to fly in first class and is it really worth it?

The standard price for an international first class flight can be somewhere between $5000 and $10 000. And this is normal given the fact that a first class cabin offers the most luxurious   amenities and services of highest quality on-board. 

However, there are different ways in which frequent flyers can get a first class ticket for a much lower price. Airlines often offer ticket discounts and seat upgrades to its loyal passengers who wish to enjoy the amazing benefits of first class.

The prices of first class flights can’t go as low as those of business class flights but their high price makes sense given how high is the quality of all first class services. 

Airlines offer discounts on first class flights too but the lowered price for a first class ticket is still high for the largest part of travelers.

First class is more convenient for long-haul destinations and it’s even recommended for long distance air travel. But if we are talking about flights with short duration and domestic flights, then booking a first class ticket may not be worth the high investment.

So if you need to fly on a long-haul transcontinental route, choosing first class will be the best option for you.

If you are one of those who can afford to get a first class ticket, then you should not hesitate to enjoy the many advantages first class flights provide you with.

First class passengers get world class services and many perks both on the ground and during the flight.

Some of the perks are: 

• seats that can be turned into comfortable beds
• private compartments in the airplane cabin
• premium lounge access at the airport
• private transport to and from the airport
• personalized air cabin service. 

Let’s not forget about the welcome glass of champagne after boarding the aircraft.

The luxury amenities of first class lounges can really maximize your air travel experience and you should not miss to get advantage from some of them.

You have the option to get advantage of a variety of luxury amenities that will help you feel special and well-rested.

What amenities first class flights offer?

Ultra comfortable seats

First class seats are more spacious and offer more extras than the seats on the other air travel cabin.

In fact, some airlines offer entire suites on their first class cabins that offer passengers the privacy and quiet space they need. 

These air cabin suites are equipped with everything you need for a comfortable and productive flight. They feature sliding doors, space for your baggage and personal belongings, sufficient lighting (that you can adjust according to your preferences), trays for dining and working.

First class seats offer 60 inches of legroom which is way more than the legroom economy class seats offer. The seats have dividers between each other which offers added privacy for the passengers.

In first class you have plenty of entertainment options, you can watch movies, listen to music and podcasts or play games.

First class seats offer different extras such as: 

• built-in TV monitors with a touchscreen
• headphones
• compartment for storing personal baggage
• power outlets for charging devices

The TV screens inside the first class cubicles can be either controlled from their touchscreens or with a handy remote controller.

Luxury lounge access

If you have much time between connecting flights, don’t miss to spend it at your airline’s first class lounge. First class tickets include exclusive access to luxury airport lounges that offer a great variety of services and amenities. 

Five-star lounge amenities

Restaurants and dining areas

Some of the available first class lounge amenities are restaurants, cafes, bars, buffet zones with a rich offering of meals and drinks.

Lounge restaurants offer you a rich menu with exquisite restaurant-quality meals and premium quality drinks.  The meals are prepared by professional chefs with high quality ingredients.

As a first class lounge guest you can either choose to sit down and wait for a waiter to show you the menu or either serve yourself a chosen meal at a buffet, if you are in a hurry.

First class passengers will find different self-service spots throughout luxury lounges. They offer different drinks and light snacks.

Work spots

First class lounges offer also a work area where passengers can get their job done in a quiet and comfortable atmosphere. This area features office chairs and tables with computers, printers and even meeting rooms – everything a business traveler needs to catch up on their work projects.

Priority check-in

In first class you are not going to wait long at airport checkpoints. First and business class passengers can use a dedicated check-in counter that is designed only for premium class flyers.

And as a first class passenger you can also use a separate line that allows you to pass through security and immigration quickly.

This option is a great time-saver. Instead of waiting in a long queue to board your airplane, you can take your seat and enjoy a glass of champagne before everybody else. 

During the check in process all first class flyers are invited to sit down by a desk and they are assisted by a check-in agent with their luggage.

More baggage allowance

Another great advantage of first class travel is the option to bring more baggage with you. As a first class passenger you can check an additional baggage piece.

Premium quality meals and drinks

On first class flights the drinks are served in real glass cups and the meals on ceramic plates. 

Here you can try a rich selection of wines and champagne as well as spirit drinks, beer, freshly squeezed juice. You can also choose from two separate menus-food menu and drinks menu.

The quality of the meals offered on first class flights and at the lounges can’t be compared to this of the food you will find on economy flights. 

First class travelers can enjoy in-flight a la carte dining, gourmet meals, buffet meal options.

Private chauffeured transport

In first class you are never in a hurry and you never miss business meetings or other important events.  Premium cabin passengers can enjoy the option of having their own private luxury vehicle that will transport them quickly to and from the airport.

When you arrive at the airport you just wait for your private car to come to pick you at the lounge and drive you to your boarding gate.

Some airlines offer their customers also a hotel pickup service which means you can be driven in a luxury vehicle from your hotel to the airport.

Full-service in-flight bar

Depending on the airline and the aircraft model you can find in-flight bars where first class passengers can enjoy alcoholic drinks, cocktails and light snacks.

Luxury amenity kits

International first class flights offer their passengers complementary kits during the flight which can make your flight more comfortable. 

These kits include different travel essentials and cosmetic products such as: 

• moisturizing cream and lotion
• toothbrush
• toothpaste
• hair comb
• sleep mask
• ear plugs
• noise-canceling headphones

In-flight bathroom

Individual attention from air cabin crew

Since first class cabins have a small number of seats, passengers are more likely to get individual attention from the flight attendant staff and ask for the things they need. One of the greatest things about flying in first class is that you can inform the flight attendant staff of your personal food and drink preferences.  

Tips for beginner first class fliers

Book a spa treatment

First class lounges offer their customers spa centers with different rejuvenating spa therapies with cosmetic products from renowned brands.

Depending on the airline you need to make your spa reservation at least 24 hours before departure. But some airlines allow you to book a spa therapy upon entering the first class lounge.

Upgrading to first class

The good news for those of you who are flying on a more strict budget is that you can travel in first class for cheap. There are some ways in which you can score an upgrade from business class to first class. 

What are the factors that can help you to get a first class upgrade? 

Overbooked flight

If your chosen business class flight is overbooked, then you can choose to give up your seat and ask if you can be upgraded to another flight.

Elite flyer status

Getting a VIP status in an airline is another way to get an upgrade to a first class seat. As each airline has different rules concerning the status of an elite flyer. 

In general, the higher your status in an airline, the more likely you are to get a  first class seat. One of the quickest ways to obtain an elite flyer status is to sign up for an airline credit card.

Upgrade with miles and points

It’s possible to use your points and miles to get a seat in first class. Some airlines offer their passengers the great option to use their award points and frequent flyer miles to upgrade booked economy tickets. 

However this depends mainly on the fare class of your ticket, so don’t forget to check it. Some air travel classes (such as basic economy) don’t offer you the option to upgrade.

Make a bid for an upgrade

All passengers who travel on an air travel lower than first (this doesn’t count for basic economy flights) can bid on a seat in first class. If you are a frequent flyer, your airline will inform you with an email about the available upgrades for you. This option allows you to get a seat on a higher class flight at a lower price than the original fare you have booked the flight on .

This option includes some restrictions and for this reason you should check the conditions of your company.

Use an upgrade voucher

Air companies give their elite flyers upgrade vouchers every year. So, if you are an owner of such a voucher and don’t plan to use it, you have the option to gift it to someone.