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Zürich Airport is facing renewed scrutiny over nighttime noise levels as the Schutzverband der Bevölkerung um den Flughafen Zürich – the local residents’ protection association – has formally lodged an objection to the airport’s revised operating regulations. The move comes after the Flughafen Zürich AG (FZAG) resubmitted proposals from 2013 and 2017, following court decisions, but the association claims the changes offer insufficient improvements to address noise pollution impacting nearby communities.
The core of the dispute centers on aircraft noise during nighttime hours. The Schutzverband is demanding that no additional nighttime noise be permitted, advocating for earlier final flight slots to prevent delays from regularly pushing intercontinental flights into the late night. Specifically, they are calling for the last slots to be set 15 minutes earlier. Any expansion of flight movements after 10 PM is being opposed.
Beyond slot times, the association is also requesting a ban on nighttime takeoffs of heavier aircraft from runway 32, as well as the implementation of quieter approach procedures. These demands reflect a long-standing concern among residents about the impact of airport operations on their quality of life.
The Schutzverband emphasizes its recognition of the economic importance of Zürich Airport, stating it aims for a “quality airport” rather than one focused solely on maximizing the volume of low-cost flights, particularly during nighttime hours. This sentiment underscores a desire to balance economic benefits with the well-being of those living near the airport.
The Flughafen Zürich AG’s proposed changes to the operating regulations are intended to implement measures outlined in the Sachplan Verkehr, Teil Infrastruktur Luftfahrt (SIL) – the Federal Planning for Infrastructure, Air Transport. According to the Federal Office of Civil Aviation (BAZL), the revisions aim to enhance safety and reduce noise. The BAZL began a public consultation on the amended regulations on January 19, 2026 and will continue to accept feedback until February 17, 2026, extending the consultation to neighboring cantons and federal offices.
New Flight Paths and Noise Reduction Measures
The proposed operating regulations include several key changes, including the disentanglement of the East Concept, adjustments to departure routes heading west, the implementation of a new Bisen Concept with southerly departures, an expanded left turn upon takeoff from runway 16 towards the west, and more flexible runway opening times. These adjustments are a direct response to the findings of a 2012 safety review. Despite forecasts predicting increased air traffic by 2035, the environmental impact assessment suggests a potential reduction in overall noise pollution. The assessment specifically anticipates a significant reduction in noise levels during the second nighttime hour, between 11 PM and midnight.
The revisions are based on a revised SIL object sheet, which was approved by the Federal Council on September 19, 2025. This sheet establishes a maximum permissible noise level for the second nighttime hour. FZAG submitted supplementary documents to the BAZL in September 2025, based on these new guidelines. The revised regulations also include provisions for southerly departures, a change that has been a point of discussion among residents.
Ongoing Concerns and Community Response
The Schutzverband der Bevölkerung um den Flughafen Zürich, founded in 1967 and currently representing 48 municipalities, has been a consistent voice for residents affected by airport noise. The association’s objection highlights the ongoing tension between the airport’s growth and the quality of life for those living in surrounding areas. The group’s website, schutzverbandzuerich.ch, provides further information on their activities and concerns.
The airport, operating under a federal mandate to connect Switzerland with the world, is subject to a complex legal framework including the Federal Constitution, the Air Navigation Act, the Infrastructure Air Transport Plan, the operating regulations, and the Airport Act, as outlined by Flughafen Zürich AG.
What comes next is a period of review and consideration by the BAZL, which will assess the objections raised by the Schutzverband and other stakeholders. The BAZL’s decision will ultimately determine the future of nighttime operations at Zürich Airport and the balance between economic growth and the well-being of local communities. The public is encouraged to follow the BAZL’s website for updates on the process.
Share your thoughts on the proposed changes and the impact on local communities in the comments below.
