The "Night Rest Initiative", which calls for shortening operating hours at Zurich Airport, has met with clear rejection from the Zurich government council. In a clear statement, the council stressed that the proposed measures violate federal law and would have serious consequences for Switzerland's international connections. Zurich Airport, a central hub for Swiss air traffic, is once again at the center of a controversial debate.
The "Night Rest Initiative" aims to end flight operations at Zurich Airport as early as 23:00 p.m. According to federal regulations, the airport is currently open for civil air traffic until 23:30 p.m., with the last half hour reserved for delay reduction without the need for a permit. Shortening operating times would therefore mean a reduction in the time windows for delayed take-offs and landings, which would have far-reaching consequences, particularly for intercontinental flights.
rejection by the government council
The government council of the canton of Zurich made it clear that the initiative could not be implemented because it violated federal law. This regulates the airport's operating hours conclusively and does not allow any further restrictions. The government council also emphasized that the current operating hours are essential for Switzerland's international connections. Around 200 direct connections from Zurich guarantee connections to important economic centers worldwide - a decisive factor for Switzerland as a business location.
Importance of operating times for air traffic
Zurich Airport functions not only as a local transport hub, but also as an international hub. The late evening hours in particular are crucial for maintaining the complex processes of hub operations. Reducing operating hours would not only affect intercontinental connections, but also short- and medium-haul flights. This could significantly reduce the attractiveness of Zurich Airport as an international hub and jeopardize the fulfillment of its federal mandate.
Delay Problems and Possible Solutions
Delays in European air traffic are a growing challenge. Weather conditions, technical problems and airspace restrictions are just some of the reasons affecting flight operations. Zurich Airport has been implementing measures to minimize delays for years. These include higher noise surcharges during the night hours and long-term infrastructure projects such as the planned extension of the runways. These projects, which were approved by the Zurich electorate in 2024, are intended to improve punctuality, but are still in the implementation phase.
Legal opinion confirms invalidity of the initiative
A legal opinion commissioned by the government council comes to the conclusion that the night-time quiet initiative is invalid because it violates higher-level federal law. The initiative is therefore unlikely to survive any further political steps. The cantonal council is now called upon to officially declare the initiative invalid or to reject it.
The debate about the night-time quiet initiative at Zurich Airport highlights the complex balance between the legitimate concerns of the population and the requirements of internationally competitive air traffic. While the initiative seems at first glance to promise an improvement for residents, its implementation would bring significant disadvantages for the economy and international accessibility of Switzerland.
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