By Bryce Casson, Founder · Cardocrat · Updated June 2026
The short answer: Swiss First Class is a discreet, high-quality product with an exceptional First lounge and terminal experience in Zurich. Like its Lufthansa Group sibling, Swiss releases most First award space to partners only close to departure, so the timing and which Star Alliance miles you use are what determine success.
What Swiss First Class is
Swiss First on the 777 and A340 offers a large private seat with a separate bed on some aircraft, refined Swiss dining and wine, and access to the superb First lounges and the dedicated First experience at Zurich. It is understated and excellent, a favorite for travel to and through Switzerland.
The late-release quirk
Swiss is part of the Lufthansa Group, and like Lufthansa it holds back most First Class award space from partners until close to departure, often inside about two weeks, releasing remaining seats then. Swiss own Miles and More program can see space earlier. So with partner miles, plan to book late and watch for the window.
Which miles to use
As a Star Alliance carrier, Swiss First can be booked with partner programs like Air Canada Aeroplan, United MileagePlus, and Avianca LifeMiles inside that window, each with its own pricing and surcharges. Aeroplan and LifeMiles are popular for value. See Swiss booking guide and finding award space.
Who it is for
Swiss First suits flexible travelers to Europe who can book inside the late window or hold Miles and More miles, and who want the standout Zurich First experience. Patience with timing is key. Award prices and availability change constantly as programs devalue and adjust, so treat every points figure here as a rough, illustrative guide rather than a guarantee. Always confirm the current price and that an award seat is actually available on the airline own site before you transfer points, since transfers are one-way and cannot be reversed.
Frequently asked questions
Why is Swiss First Class hard to book with partner miles?
Because Swiss, like its Lufthansa Group sibling, releases most First award space to partners only close to departure, often inside about two weeks. Swiss own Miles and More can see space earlier.
Which miles book Swiss First Class?
Star Alliance partners such as Air Canada Aeroplan, Avianca LifeMiles, and United MileagePlus inside the late-release window, or Swiss own Miles and More for earlier access.
Is the Zurich First experience worth it?
Many think so. Swiss offers superb First lounges and a dedicated First experience in Zurich, which is a highlight of flying the cabin alongside the discreet, high-quality onboard product.
Can I book Swiss First in advance?
Generally only with Swiss own Miles and More miles. Partner programs mostly see First space close to departure, so with partner miles you plan to book late and stay flexible.
Which Swiss aircraft have First Class?
The 777-300ER, and only part of the fleet carries First at all. Confirm the specific flight is a First-configured aircraft, since many Swiss long-haul jets have only business.
Bryce Casson, Founder of Cardocrat. Every card is ranked by what it actually returns, with all points valued at a flat 1 cent and offers verified against issuer sources. About the author.
