The planned extensions to runways 28 and 32 will enable more stable operations in all weather conditions and for all aircraft types, and will help to improve the safety margin at Zurich Airport.

Operations at Zurich Airport have been handled in the same way since 1 January 1976, with the current system of three runways: 16/34 at 3'700 metres long, 14/32 at 3'300 metres long and 10/28 at 2'500 metres long. In its Sectoral Aviation Infrastructure Plan (SAIP), the Federal Council approved the extension of runway 28 to the west and runway 32 to the north to improve safety and operational processes. The runway extensions are an essential measure from the "Zurich Airport safety review" to improve the safety margin in flight operations.

Construction work on the runway extensions is expected to begin in 2030 at the earliest.

The runway extensions are included in the Federal Aviation Infrastructure Plan (SIL) and in the cantonal structure plan. On 3 March 2024, Zurich voters approved the runway extension project by a clear majority of around 62% in a cantonal referendum. The planning approval applications for both projects were submitted to the federal authorities in March 2026 and were made available for public consultation from 1 to 30 June 2026. The federal approval process is currently ongoing.