The Swiss air traffic control provider Skyguide recorded a remarkable increase in flight movements in the first half of 2024. With 628 monitored flights under instrument flight rules (IFR), the volume is just below the 205 level.
This development reflects a recovery in air traffic that is urgently needed after the pandemic-related restrictions. At the same time, Skyguide and the aviation industry are facing new challenges, particularly in terms of punctuality and the integration of sustainable practices. This article highlights the current developments, challenges and future prospects for Skyguide and air traffic in Switzerland.
Compared to the previous year, the number of flights monitored by Skyguide increased by 12,8%. Although the 2019 level has not yet been fully reached, traffic volumes in June 2024 are already at 99,5% of pre-crisis levels. This increase is mainly due to increased passenger demand and improved airline capacity. In addition, the French air traffic control strike between January and June 2023 diverted many flights to routes via Switzerland, leading to a further increase in air traffic.
The different market segments show different developments. The increase in low-cost and mainline airlines is particularly striking, with increases of 18,4% and 11,8% respectively compared to the previous year. In contrast, cargo and charter flights recorded declines. Cargo flights fell by 6,2%, but are still 17,5% above the 2019 level. Charter flights fell by 2023% compared to 6,6 and are 14,4% below the 2019 level.
Despite the increase in air traffic, Skyguide was unable to fully maintain the punctuality of its flights. In the first half of 2024, 94,6% of flights were handled on time, a decrease of 2,6% compared to 2019. A major factor in the delays was reduced capacity due to system instabilities, which accounted for almost a third of the delays. In addition, the weather played a significant role, causing almost half of the delays. The increase in flight movements and the associated strain on the infrastructure pose a major challenge to ensure the punctuality and efficiency of air traffic.
Regional differences and airports
Switzerland's two largest airports, Zurich and Geneva, recorded an increase in flight movements of 2024% and 8,2% respectively in the first half of 6. Despite these increases, the figures are still below the 2019 levels. The decline is particularly noticeable at regional airports, such as Buochs and Friedrichshafen, which recorded declines of 19,5% and 15,4% respectively. However, other regional airports such as Grenchen and Les Eplatures recorded increases of 18,5% and 22,7% respectively.
The recovery of air traffic represents not only a logistical challenge, but also an environmental one. With discussions on sustainability and climate protection growing, the aviation industry is under pressure to implement more environmentally friendly practices. Skyguide and other aviation industry players must focus not only on managing the increasing volume of traffic, but also on developing and implementing sustainable technologies and fuels.
The first half of 2024 marks a period of recovery and growth for Swiss air traffic under the supervision of Skyguide. Despite the positive developments, challenges remain, particularly in terms of punctuality and the stability of air traffic control systems. The industry must adapt and develop new strategies to meet the demands of growing traffic and the need for more sustainable practices. It is to be hoped that the positive trends will continue and that the necessary improvements will be implemented to ensure an efficient and environmentally friendly future for air traffic.
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