Swissair had it all

Once upon a time in the middle of the last century, just about fifty years ago, it was really a pleasure to fly -- particularly as a passenger on Swissair. There even was a direct flight from Boston to Zurich. I remember seeing the CEO of Polaroid across the aisle in economy class. It was that good.

Swissair's graphics and promo were the best in the world. This is one of their posters promoting travel to Japan. Click on this and the other images to enlarge them.

Swissair ticket folder. Notice that all the sell is confined to the inside.

Equipment Swissair flew at the time, from one of their postcards.

One of the earlier Swissair prop planes.

Swissair routes worldwide.

Passenger promo material. Those are oversize post cards, beautiful photos and great printing.

Litttle boxes of almonds served before dinner with beverage of your choice, as offered by attractive young female flight attendants. No, I'm not a sexist but you should know that at the same time U.S. airlines were under pressure to hire older women who could be, on occasion, nags and scolds.

Just think of it, decent champagne as well!

Dinner menus! Remember, this was in economy class.

They were having lobster in First. I swear.

Swissair newspaper in at least three languages with tourist information.

And a gratis carry-off bag.

Comments

[gopal]

Sadly, LX as SR is now known, is not a patch on SR.

I recently flew LX out of Mumbai to Zurich, & they did not even serve dinner ! Even Breakfast the next morning was a hasty rushed affair. Service was very sloppy & i have sworn never to fly LX, if i can help it.

[Richard A. Kaback]

Dear Paul: I flew SR CV990's in the 60's, DC8-50's, and then 747's and DC-10's in the mid-70's. Service was always elegant, meals outstanding, glassware, porcelain and silverware. FA's were polished and professional, and each flight was an "event" to which you could always look forward, as well as enjoy! Nothing has ever come close to this privileged experience, and there was simply no other airline like SR! Long live the memory!

[tracey]

Wow. I had no idea. This is amazing.