First CrossAir experience
 

I just had my first experience on crossair this weekend and I have to say that I was thoroughly impressed.

The 30 minute flight from MUC to ZRH was on an RJ-100 "Jumbolino." This is much more comfortable than the LH CRJs. In fact, the RJ85 and 100 blow away any other regional get in terms of cabin comfort and flight comfort. The seats on these planes are wider than most mainline jets.

Anyway, this was a very short flight and I was in economy, but as is the custom in Europe full drink service was performed. Before take-off we were offered a prepackaged moistened towellete. Fres croissoints were served with drinks (I'm sure business class got a meal). What really got me was that in economy, on a regional jet, on a thirty minute flight, we were served with real glassware. My apple juice came in the same type of glass that is used for wine in US Domestic F. Coffee was served in a china cup with saucer. After drinks we were all offerred a choice of choclate treats.

The pilot was very affable. He greeted everyone on boarding and and said goodbye as we left. He kept us very well informed and attempted to inject a bit of levity at times. For instance, on landing in ZRH, he came over the PA and, imitating the sound made by the automated announcers on streetcars, subways, etc., said "beep beep beep nächste Halte, Zürich."

Overall, I was very impressed.

I flew them GOT-BSL and then ZRH-GOT last year and thought the service was really classy. Easily the best bread I've been served on a flight.

Even better was Crossair Europe (technically a French regional) BSL-MRS in a Saab 340. Single class service, bubbly (cremant) in real glass, fantastic fresh bread, good food followed by chocolates. While setting down the tray, the cabin attendant noticed that the coffee cup was chipped, apologised and immediately changed it.

I agree that LX service is excellent. However my mother avoids them as she soes not like their small planes.

I used to fly into Lugano a great deal, and how I love(d?) Crossair! FAs were always great, with champers and choccies on every flight. The language skills were amazing, as announcements were always made in (1)the language of the departure province, (2)the language of the arriving province, (3)the language of any other province to which that flight was heading or from which it had flown, and (4)English. The Lugano-Paris flight, which stopped in Bern, had just about enough time to serve the meal and make the announcements.

Oh, and on a sunny day, the flight into or out of Lugano/Arno is spectacular.

I do that every once in a while on a discount $50rt fare - just for the joy of flying (and the miles).