Robert Humphry new VP Sales at Swisslog
Jun 18, 2026 at 10:32 AM
The National Council today, on June 18, 2026, approved the revision of the Aviation Act with 130 votes in favor and 60 against. This outcome strengthens the operating hours of the national airports in Zurich (ZRH) and Geneva (GVA) and secures Switzerland’s international connectivity. The interest group Aviationsuisse welcomes this decision and emphasizes the necessity of stable framework conditions for aviation.
Regine Sauter, President of Aviationsuisse and National Council member of the FDP, commented on the decision:
“Securing the current operating hours is crucial. They form the foundation of Switzerland’s international connectivity.”
The Swiss population also generally shows a positive attitude towards aviation and recognizes its economic significance as well as the necessity for reliable international connections. This is evident from a recent study by the research institute Sotomo, conducted on behalf of Aviationsuisse. The survey, which took place between January 22 and February 5, 2026, questioned 3,734 individuals, including 1,210 residents of the airport regions of Zurich, Basel, and Geneva.
A central finding of the study concerns the operating hours of the airports. Nearly 80% of respondents oppose a reduction in operating hours. 57% consider the current nighttime regulations to be just right, while only 22% desire a relaxation. An extension of the nighttime flight ban, which would come with a reduced flight schedule, also does not find a majority. This attitude is reflected in the broad support for the existing regulations, which are viewed as stable and reliable.
Overestimated tourism, underestimated air freight
Another important point from the study is the economic role of aviation. Four-fifths of the population recognize the importance of aviation for the Swiss economy. However, the role of goods imports and exports via air freight is underestimated. In fact, about half of the value of goods exports (52.1%, 205.3 billion CHF) occurs via air freight, while the population estimates this share at an average of only 36.9%. Two out of three individuals thus underestimate the central role of aviation for exports.
“79% of the population attribute great economic significance to the intercontinental hub in Zurich,” Sauter continued. “The current operating hours of the national airports must be legally and planning-wise secured.”
With this clear signal from the National Council, Aviationsuisse believes that the importance of aviation for the Swiss economy and society is underscored. The population demands a continuous development of aviation infrastructure to ensure Switzerland’s competitiveness and international connectivity.
