Swiss International Air Lines is to become the world's first "allergy friendly" carrier to be certified by the European Centre for Allergy Research Foundation (ECARF).
From May, Swiss will offer new services to improve the air travel for allergy sufferers as standard on all its flights. These include lactose and gluten-free food and drinks (lactose-free coffee cream and a lactose-free version of the popular chocolate bar) along with changes to cabin interiors.
Allergy sufferers will be able to order special meals tailored to their needs in all seating classes on long-haul services and in business class within Europe up to 24 hours before their scheduled departure.
Swiss' allergy-friendly modifications extend to its cabins with first and business class passengers to be offered pillows stuffed with synthetic materials as an alternative to the down-filled version.
The airline is also ceasing decorative flowers and air fresheners that might cause nose and throat irritations, and on-board toilets will feature soaps that are gentle on the skin.
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"We have seen a steady increase over the past few years in our customers' need for an air travel environment that pays due regard to any allergic conditions," says Frank Maier, Swiss' head of product and services. "So we've been working with ECARF to provide a concrete response to these demands and make everyone's air travel experience as pleasant and problem-free as possible."
