**SWISS to End Onboard Duty-Free Sales: A Shift in Cabin Service Strategy** SWISS has announced that it will discontinue the sale of duty-free products on its flights from the end of September 2026. The Swiss carrier joins a growing list of airlines that have abandoned this traditional cabin service, which has become less profitable due to changing passenger behavior. An internal analysis revealed that demand for onboard duty-free items has dropped significantly, as travelers now prefer to compare prices and make purchases through online shops or airport stores before boarding. Instead of the physical duty-free cart, SWISS will redirect its retail offering to the "Worldshop" online platform, linked to the Miles & More loyalty program. Customers will still be able to buy tax-free products, but via a website rather than from the cabin cart. To clear existing stock, the airline will offer discounts of at least 25% on selected items until supplies run out. This decision aligns with a broader trend in the aviation industry: United Airlines eliminated onboard duty-free sales in March 2017, Delta Air Lines did so in August 2014, and American Airlines followed in March 2015. These moves were officially attributed to contractual disputes with suppliers, but they also reflect the structural decline of impulse purchases at altitude, as airport shops offer wider selections and better prices. **Implications for Aviation Training** For ATPL and ATC students, this development illustrates how airlines continuously adapt their business models to optimize costs and enhance the passenger experience. The removal of duty-free sales reduces cabin crew workload, allowing them to focus more on safety and service tasks. It also highlights the growing importance of digital retail and loyalty programs in airline revenue management. Understanding these operational changes is crucial for future pilots and controllers, as they affect cabin procedures, weight and balance calculations, and overall flight economics. **Broader Industry Context** The shift away from onboard duty-free is part of a larger evolution in travel retail. A report by Kearney notes that airport duty-free sales are not keeping pace with air traffic growth, and the perception of duty-free as a cheaper option is fading. For aviation professionals, this trend underscores the need to stay informed about non-aeronautical revenue streams and their impact on airline profitability. As the industry moves toward more streamlined and digital services, the role of the cabin crew continues to evolve, emphasizing safety and efficiency over traditional retail functions.