Now past readers of the blog will know that I am not a particular fan of modern day flying.  In fact I find it one of the more de-humanising and tedious experiences around and I reckon most airports should be bulldozed to the ground.

See here if you want to read my carefully reasoned and un-emotional arguments.

However there is one route that is positively enjoyable; flying SWISS out of London City airport heading to The Alps. Now I suppose I should be objective, impartial and not select personal favourites and then lavish out praise, but I try to tell it like it is and SWISS, out of London City, is positively enjoyable.  Why?

As you arrive at the terminal the check in machines and baggage drop are about 20 metres in.  There is rarely a queue and then it's up a short escalator to the passport control that tends to be a couple of people just standing there.  No white lines saying where you can and can't stand with long queues of stressed out people.  The time spend going through security is variable, as it depends on the time of day you travel, but by and large it doesn't take too long. There seem to be enough staff and machines to deal with the number of passengers.

When through to the departure areas you don't have to walk through a shopping mall to find somewhere to sit.  If you need to buy things there are some shops and if you want to have a seat there are plenty on offer that seem to be of the correct size and comfort. Why, oh why, can't more airports be this size? Then it's on to the small pane that SWISS use out of the airport.  I'm allocated a seat so there is not that ridiculous pushing and shoving experience you get with the no-frills carriers as everyone tries ot get on first, the seats are a decent size and I know my skis are in the luggage hold below me and I haven't had to pay for them.

The flight is around 3 quarters full so it you get a bit of personal attention from the air stewards.  A rather unpleasant roll is offered (OK, its not perfect) but best of all as we approach Geneva we're offered some free chocolates.  Nice touch, especially as I have my daughter with me.

It makes me remember how flying used to be; relaxing, comfortable and it gave one the feeling that something exciting was happening. The return flight into London City is even smoother than departing.  From the wheels touching the runway to walking out of the terminal doors took exactly 18 and a half minutes and yes we did have to wait to collect luggage and skis.

Let's here it for small airports and airlines that remember the customer.

See this related story on PlanetSKI as SWISS markets itself as a skier friendly airline.

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