These extensions will increase the safety margin for flight operations and improve punctuality, particularly in the evenings.
Project updates
The runway extension project is currently marked out on the airport grounds using construction markers and wooden pegs. This is because the Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA) is launching the public consultation on the planning permission applications.
In addition to the markers, information boards have also been installed on the site.
Construction of the runway extensions is not expected to begin until 2030 at the earliest.
Improving the safety margin
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.
Extension of runway 28
Extension of runway 32
Political process
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 the two projects were submitted to the federal government in March 2026 (public consultation from 1 to 30 June 2026).