New stands were created in the Zone West area to meet current and growing demand for aircraft parking space. These stands are necessary, particularly given the phase of the new Dock A construction project, which will result in the elimination of many parking stands at the main airport complex. Depending on the layout and size of the aircraft, the areas on the airport’s apron offer enough space for up to 14 aircraft.

Construction work on the stands resumed in early 2023 following a two-year break due to the COVID pandemic. The first step of the project involved moving all utility conduits for water, wastewater and electricity before the entire area was paved with concrete and asphalt. The final step was to apply markings to the taxiway, stand and road surfaces. With the exception of a few finishing touches, the stands’ entry into service marks the conclusion of the construction work.

The areas on the airport’s apron are primarily intended as space for parking aircraft, with two stands devoted to ground handling services. The stands are designed for both Code C (e.g. Airbus 320) and Code E aircraft (e.g. Boeing B777).

New spotter platform delayed

In autumn 2023, construction work on the airport’s apron made it necessary to remove both the plane spotters’ hill that had been temporarily erected in 2017 as well as the Heligrill restaurant. Work to replace these has not yet begun due to an appeal that is pending in the Construction Appellate Court. The planned site is located around 300 metres north of the previous site and closer to the runway crossing. Zurich Airport Ltd. continues to advocate for the spotting platform to be built at the designated site.

About Zone West

Most of the land between the airport and Glatt is owned by Zurich Airport Ltd. In the Sectoral Aviation Infrastructure Plan (SAIP), this land is intended for apron extensions, buildings for ground handling, aircraft maintenance, airport maintenance and logistics as well as corresponding improvements and parking spaces.