Switzerland’s aviation industry stands as a critical pillar of its economy and infrastructure, with impressive statistics highlighting its scale and impact. In 2023, Switzerland’s seven largest airports handled over 53 million passengers, marking a 22% increase compared to the previous year. The nation’s three main airports—Zurich, Geneva, and Basel—along with regional hubs, recorded approximately 509,000 aircraft movements. The sector supports around 34,000 jobs and contributes CHF 15 billion annually to the economy. The following airports serve as major aviation hubs in Switzerland, facilitating both passenger and cargo operations:
- Zurich Airport (IATA: ZRH, ICAO: LSZH)
- Geneva Airport (IATA: GVA, ICAO: LSGG)
- EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (IATA: BSL (Swiss sector) / MLH (French sector), ICAO: LFSB)
- Bern Airport (Bern-Belp) (IATA: BRN, ICAO: LSZB)
- Lugano Airport (IATA: LUG, ICAO: LSZA)
International Flight Operations at Zurich Airport (IATA: ZRH, ICAO: LSZH)
Zurich Airport (ZRH) operates three primary airside terminals—Terminal A, Terminal B, and Terminal E—all linked via the central Airside Centre for seamless passenger navigation.
Terminal A serves exclusively Schengen Area flights, and has a straightforward connection to the Airside Centre for travelers within the Schengen zone. Terminal B, on the other hand, accommodates both Schengen and non-Schengen flights, with gate prefixes distinguishing the two: B for Schengen and D for non-Schengen.
For non-Schengen international flights, Terminal E is the designated terminal, situated across the runway from the Airside Centre. It is efficiently connected by the Skymetro, an automated underground transit system, ensuring smooth access for passengers.
Airport Operations
- Operating Hours: LSZH operates from 0600 to 2200 local time.
- Aircraft must land before closing to avoid diversion to alternate airports.
Permissions and Slots
- Airport Slots: Required for all operations and should be requested as early as possible and allocated slots are strictly monitored by Slot Coordination Switzerland (SCS).
- Slot deviation is -30 to +30 minutes.
- During peak times, requested slots may not be granted.
- PPR: Not required.
CIQ (Customs, Immigration, Quarantine)
- Passenger Limit: FBO CIQ clearance is limited to a maximum of 24 passengers.
- For more than 24 passengers, CIQ must be handled in the main terminal alongside scheduled commercial passengers.
- Documentation: Passenger and crew manifests are not required for FBO CIQ clearance.
- Visa Requirements: Visas for Switzerland are mandatory for certain nationalities and cannot be obtained on arrival.
- Customs Clearance: Only required for passengers with items to declare.
- CIQ Onboard: Not available.
- Ramp Access: Private vehicles are prohibited on the ramp for passenger drop-off/pick-up.
Parking and Aircraft Considerations
- Parking Availability:
- Limited for larger aircraft, such as Gulfstream G650, Airbus ACJ, or Boeing BBJ.
- Larger aircraft may need to reposition to alternate airports like Basel (LFSB) or Geneva (LSGG).
- Prohibited Flights: Operations between LSZH and Dubendorf (LSMD) are not permitted.
Documentation and Landing Permits
- Private Non-Revenue Operations: No landing permits required.
- Charter Operations: Non-EU registered charter operators require permits with documentation, including:
- Airworthiness and registration certificates.
- Worldwide insurance.
- Noise certificate.
- Aircraft Operator Certificate (AOC).
Zurich (ZRH) Airport Runways & Operational Statistics
Zurich Airport (ZRH) features three concrete runways: Runway 10/28 measures 2,500 meters (8,202 feet), Runway 14/32 spans 3,300 meters (10,827 feet), and Runway 16/34 extends to 3,700 meters (12,139 feet).
Also, passenger traffic at Zurich Airport has seen significant growth in recent years. From 2021 to 2022, passenger numbers increased by 120.4%, rising from 10,234,428 to 22,561,132. In 2023, this figure grew by an additional 28.1%, reaching 28,885,506 passengers. Flight movements also rose sharply, increasing by 63.3% from 132,600 in 2021 to 216,585 in 2022, and by 14.3% to 247,456 in 2023.
Freight volumes experienced more modest changes, with a 7.4% increase from 393,062 tonnes in 2021 to 422,153 tonnes in 2022, followed by a 10.4% decrease to 377,998 tonnes in 2023. These figures highlight Zurich Airport’s steady recovery and growing importance as a key aviation hub.
International Flight Operations at Geneva Airport (IATA: GVA, ICAO: LSGG)
Geneva Airport (GVA) is equipped with three passenger terminals: Terminal 1 (T1), Terminal 2 (T2), and a dedicated Business Aviation Terminal, also known as Terminal 3 (T3).
Terminal 1 (T1) serves as the airport’s primary terminal, featuring five piers—A, B, C, D, and F—to accommodate various flight types. Pier A is designated for Schengen destinations and has direct access from the main shopping area. Piers B and C handle non-Schengen flights, with Pier B accessible via an underground walkway that includes passport control, while Pier C focuses on long-haul services. Pier D is uniquely divided between Schengen and non-Schengen passengers, with separate floors and underground walkways connecting it to Pier A. Pier F, also known as the French Sector, allows seamless travel between France and the airport without passing through Swiss customs.
Terminal 2 (T2) operates seasonally during the winter months, primarily handling charter flights. Passengers check in and go through security at T2 before being transported by bus to T1 gates. While amenities are limited, it has efficient services for winter travelers.
Terminal 3 (T3) is dedicated to private aviation, has specialized services such as VIP lounges, private customs screening, and tailored support for business and leisure travelers.
Airport Operations
- Airport Hours: LSGG operates 24/7, but be mindful of curfews and airport closing times.
Slot and Permissions
- Slot Requests: Slots for LSGG are obtained online via a slot request system.
- Slot Blocks: Issued in 19-minute blocks (e.g., 0700–0719, 0720–0739). Strict adherence to the timing is required.
- Confirmation: Slot approval provides a confirmation number, which must be entered in the remarks section of your flight plan.
- PPR: While not generally required, PPR is mandatory during certain periods of high traffic.
- Slot Deviation: LSGG slots have a strict timeline, and deviations are not allowed.
Charter Operations
- Permit Lead Times: Charter operators must plan ahead to avoid complications with short-notice trips.
- Required Documentation: Ensuring that all necessary permits and documentation are ready will expedite the process.
- Slot Availability: Be aware that slots may be limited during peak periods.
CIQ (Customs, Immigration, Quarantine)
- CIQ Process: Full customs, immigration, and quarantine services are available at LSGG.
- Documentation: Passengers will need to comply with standard CIQ requirements, with manifests and customs declarations as needed.
- Visa Requirements: Ensure passengers meet visa requirements before arrival, as they cannot be obtained on arrival.
Ground Operations and Services
- Ground Support: Full ground support services (GSE) and credit are available with Just Aviation’s coordination.
- Refueling: JET A-1 fuel is available 24/7, ensuring seamless support for operations, from early morning business flights to late-night long-haul missions.
- Towing: Having a tow bar on hand may be necessary, particularly for larger aircraft during busy periods.
Parking and Aircraft Considerations
- Limited Parking for Larger Aircraft: Aircraft with large wingspans (e.g., Gulfstream G650, ACJ, BBJ) may face difficulties securing parking during peak periods.
- Alternate Airports: If parking is not available at LSGG, operators may need to consider nearby airports such as Basel (LFSB) or Lyon (LFLL) for parking.
Also, Geneva Airport (GVA) has two main runways: Runway 04/22, which is 3,900 meters (12,795 feet) long and made of concrete, and Runway 04L/22R, which spans 823 meters (2,700 feet) and has a grass/earth surface.
In 2023, Geneva Airport handled a total of 16,482,713 passengers. The airport managed 70,566 metric tons of cargo and recorded 172,841 flight movements throughout the year.
Overflight Permits for Switzerland Airspace
For EU/EFTA air carriers, flying through Swiss airspace is simple, as no overflight permit is needed. However, non-EU/EFTA carriers must obtain an overflight permit from the Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA), particularly for scheduled, charter, or commercial business flights that do not have EU market access. Civil aircraft registered in ICAO member states are exempt from needing an overflight permit for non-commercial flights.
When applying for an overflight permit from the Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA) in Switzerland, the following documents are typically required:
- Application Form: Includes detailed flight information, purpose of the flight, aircraft details, and operator information.
- Air Operator Certificate (AOC): A copy of the Air Operator Certificate from the relevant aviation authority.
- Insurance Certificate: Proof of insurance that meets FOCA’s requirements.
- Aircraft Registration Certificate: A copy of the aircraft’s registration certificate.
- Noise Certificate: If applicable, a copy of the aircraft’s noise certificate.
- Flight Schedule: Detailed flight schedule, including entry and exit points in Swiss airspace, and estimated times.
- Operational Justification: Explanation for the overflight, including purpose and special requirements.
- Previous Permits (if applicable): Copies of prior overflight permits, if relevant.
Excellence in Ground Handling and Operations at Switzerland’s International Airports
At Just Aviation, we provide specialized ground services at Switzerland’s major airports, including Zurich (ZRH), Geneva (GVA), Basel (BSL), Bern (BRN), and Lugano (LUG), with a focus on private and business aviation. Our services range from precise aircraft marshaling and Jet A-1 refueling to smooth ramp handling, ensuring efficient and timely handling of every flight.
We prioritize passenger and crew convenience by offering fast-track immigration, baggage handling, and access to exclusive lounges. Utilizing all Ground Service Equipments (GSEs), we optimize turnaround times and ensure smooth coordination. Additionally, our team oversees flight slot management, air traffic scheduling, and the arrangement of overflight and landing permits, ensuring full regulatory compliance and smooth operations.