In response to the rise of food intolerances and allergies among consumers, Swiss International Air Lines has announced that it’s become the world’s first certified allergy-friendly airline. Beginning this month, the carrier says it will begin rolling out new products and services to improve the flying experience for allergy sufferers, ranging from the in-flight menu to cabin modifications. While most commercial airlines already offer gluten-free and lactose-free meal options, Swiss has gone a step further in becoming certified by the European Centre for Allergy Research Foundation. “The numbers of people suffering from allergies have been increasing throughout the industrialized world for several years now,” said Torsten Zuberbier, director of the Berlin-based ECARF. In addition to allergy sufferers, consumers with food intolerances and flyers following strict dietary regimes will be able to request gluten-free snacks and meals, as well as lactose-free alternatives like coffee cream and chocolate. The airline will also eliminate decorative flowers and air fresheners, while on-board toilets will now be stocked with soaps that are gentler on the skin.
