ECONOMIC IMPORTANCE

In addition to being a transport hub, Zurich Airport is also a major economic driver. With around 280 companies supporting over 27,000 jobs, it directly and indirectly generates value added of some CHF 5 billion. Moreover, the operation of Zurich Airport indirectly boosts the attractiveness of Switzerland as a business location and as a tourist destination in a variety of ways. Today 69 airlines fly directly to 203 destinations and consequently serve to connect Switzerland to the most important business centres, promising tourist destinations and key export markets for Switzerland’s tourism and export industries. These were the findings of a study conducted by BAK Economics and INFRAS on behalf of Flughafen Zürich AG in 2017.

Accessibility as a key locational factor

Accessibility is an important locational factor and a key determinant when multinational companies are choosing where to set up a business. It also affects whether local companies are able to grow and access new markets. High global and continental accessibility enhances the attractiveness of a region and drives strong economic growth, which in turn creates more jobs and boosts prosperity. Air travel is and will remain a key factor of this accessibility. Zurich Airport and the airlines operating there are already ensuring above-average accessibility. However, the ongoing rising demand for air travel, greater capacity constraints and the minimal remaining scope for growth available to Zurich Airport today are increasingly jeopardising this advantageous position. If it is to continue to underpin the region’s attractiveness as a place to live and do business in future, a more favourable political environment is essential.

EXPORTERS RELY ON EFFICIENT AIR CARGO

Switzerland is a strong export nation. Swiss companies sell their high-quality products all over the world. Zurich Airport plays a pivotal role here. As well as carrying passengers, direct intercontinental flights also enable the fast, direct and very safe transport of Swiss products to key export markets. Over 40% of Switzerland’s exports by value are transported by air freight.