Anyone who took the escalator to Gate 43 at Zurich Airport on the early morning of 12 March was met with a very special sight: indoor palm trees, a photo booth, an inviting buffet with bagels, tropical fruits, pancakes, and a wide selection of beverages—and, most of all, many excited faces. By the time the Miles & More representatives handed out the first welcome gift, it was clear: This flight would be something truly special.

Special not only because of the unique atmosphere at the gate, exuding Miami vibes, but also because this flight was almost exclusively filled with Miles & More members. They had secured an exclusive spot in advance on the second Community Award Flight to Miami—an experience that had already proven popular last year when sister airline Lufthansa took off from Munich to Cape Town.
 

Vacation vibes before takeoff

While rainy Zurich set the tone outside, the tropical decorations at the gate created a vacation atmosphere even before departure. The lavish buffet left nothing to be desired, and the view of the runway heightened the anticipation. The passengers themselves played a big part in the cheerful mood. One guest, who arrived at the gate event wearing a straw hat to match the theme, said: "The vacation starts right here at the airport. I really appreciate being welcomed like this—it's a completely different way to travel."

Before the ground crew opened boarding, Dennis Weber, CFO of SWISS, addressed the guests. With great appreciation, he thanked the frequent flyers in attendance and emphasized how important it is for SWISS to give something back with the Community Award Flight—to those who have placed their trust in the airline for many years.

And so, despite the early hour and the rain outside, the mood that morning was filled with excitement and a strong sense of community. Miami was within reach.
 

A special experience above the clouds

On board the SWISS Airbus A330, the crew was already waiting to accompany the guests on their journey to Miami. Each seat featured an exclusive SWISS tote bag, filled with an amenity kit and a beach towel—a stylish preview of the sunny destination ahead. To welcome everyone, the crew offered a glass of rosé champagne. In SWISS Economy, passengers enjoyed the new service with an aperitif—a taste of the enhancements coming to the onboard experience as part of SWISS Senses.

Before the crew served the first course, Andreas Gerber, Head of Touristic Sales at SWISS, and Dominik Sommer, Senior Director IT & Product Development at Miles & More, personally welcomed the guests over the aircraft’s speakers. They introduced the specially curated menu for this flight, which featured some exclusive highlights: Guests in SWISS First enjoyed caviar, while those in SWISS Business were treated to the finest Balik salmon, freshly prepared before their eyes. The grand finale was a highlight perfectly suited to the tropical destination—a dessert cart offering a selection of refreshing ice cream flavors, served either in a cup or a crispy cone.

While some guests indulged in the exclusive culinary offerings, others took the opportunity to chat with experts from Miles & More and SWISS. Conversations among fellow miles collectors were lively—after all, everyone on board shared the same passion. Those who preferred to relax enjoyed the inflight entertainment or simply closed their eyes—getting closer to Miami’s sunshine with every passing minute. Upon arrival in the "Sunshine State," our guests went their separate ways—at least for the time being.
 

Welcome back, with sunshine in your luggage

For the return trip to Switzerland, all guests had the choice of flying back on the official Community Award Flight on 19 March—or extending their vacation individually. Those who chose the former were once again treated to special highlights: The teams from SWISS and Miles & More had prepared exclusive surprises to round off the travel experience for the miles collectors.

In Zurich, the crew eagerly awaited the returnees and greeted them right at the passenger bridge. In high spirits and with a touch of sunshine still on their faces, the guests disembarked—receiving a personal farewell. As a sweet token of appreciation, they were given a delicious chocolate plane to enjoy on their journey home.
 

The next Community Award Flight heads to Mallorca

The destination for the next Community Award Flight is already set: On 13 July 2025, miles collectors can once again look forward to special surprises on a Eurowings flight from Düsseldorf to Palma de Mallorca. Find out more and book your seat here.