Sotomo Study Commissioned by Aviationsuisse
A recent study conducted by Sotomo on behalf of Aviationsuisse provides a clear picture of how the Swiss population views aviation. Aviationsuisse represents the interests of air transport users in Switzerland and places the needs of demand for air mobility at the centre of its work.
Broad Public Support for Aviation
According to the study, 61% of the Swiss population view air travel positively. A total of 55% are proud of Swiss aviation, and 67% see aviation more as an opportunity than a burden for the country. Four out of five respondents consider aviation to be important for the Swiss economy.
Regine Sauter, President of Aviationsuisse and member of the Swiss National Council, stated:
“The study clearly shows that the Swiss population understands how important strong international connectivity is for our country. This is particularly crucial for an export-oriented and globally interconnected economy such as Switzerland.”
Clear Rejection of Shorter Airport Operating Hours
The study highlights strong opposition to stricter airport operating restrictions. Nearly 80% of respondents are against reducing operating hours. While 57% consider the current (already strict by international standards) night curfew regulations to be appropriate, 22% would even support a relaxation.
An extension of night flight restrictions with a significantly reduced flight offering does not find majority support. Overall, the population favours stability, reliability, and maintaining current operating conditions.
This is particularly relevant for Zurich Airport, where 79% of respondents attribute high economic importance to its role as Switzerland’s only intercontinental hub. At the same time, nearly two-thirds recognise the importance of Geneva Airport for Switzerland’s international standing. EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg is also widely perceived as a key infrastructure asset.
The study confirms that efficient national airports are essential for Switzerland’s international connectivity.
Infrastructure Expansion and Climate Policy
The population also supports the further development of aviation infrastructure: 52% are in favour of expanding airport capacity if demand for passenger and cargo traffic continues to grow.
On climate policy, the message is equally clear:
- 72% believe responsibility for climate protection in aviation should primarily be addressed at the international level
- 69% prefer international solutions over national unilateral measures
The public favours technological solutions:
- 77% support more efficient aircraft
- 71% support sustainable aviation fuels
In contrast, 71% consider CO₂ levies on air tickets to be ineffective or of limited impact.
While there is willingness to contribute financially to effective climate solutions, respondents expect funds to be invested directly into the ecological transformation of aviation. Measures such as ticket taxes with redistribution mechanisms or cross-financing public transport do not find broad support.
Key Policy Conclusions by Aviationsuisse
Based on the study, Aviationsuisse formulates the following key demands:
- Safeguard current airport operating hours in legal and planning frameworks
- Recognise international connectivity as a national strategic interest
- Enable capacity development at national airports
- Ensure climate policy is internationally coordinated and technologically effective
- Refrain from introducing aviation ticket taxes, as they are not considered effective
Regional Insights: Zurich, Basel, and Geneva
In addition to the nationwide survey, Sotomo conducted in-depth analysis in the airport regions of Zurich, Basel, and Geneva, including residents living within a five-kilometre radius and those affected by aircraft noise.
Overall, quality of life in airport regions is rated positively. Existing night flight regulations are broadly supported, and further restrictions lack local backing.
Zurich
Zurich Airport is Switzerland’s only intercontinental hub and a key national infrastructure asset. The study shows strong regional acceptance, with only a minority of nearby residents perceiving noise levels as very high.
Martin Naville, President of the Committee “Weltoffenes Zürich”, commented:
“Zurich Airport is a national hub and a decisive factor for a globally connected Switzerland. Blocking its development weakens not just Zurich, but the entire country – despite high acceptance of the current situation.”
Basel
The Basel region shows high satisfaction levels in terms of connectivity, services, and employment opportunities. EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg is a critical infrastructure asset for this internationally oriented tri-national region.
Michael Hug, Head of Transport, Spatial Planning, Energy and Environment at the Chamber of Commerce of both Basel regions, stated:
“For the export-oriented Basel region, the EuroAirport is a central element of international accessibility. Weakening such infrastructure would be a strategic mistake.”
Geneva
Geneva Airport plays a key role as an economic driver for Western Switzerland and as a gateway to international diplomacy, business, and congress activities.
Air freight also plays a strategic role for this export-driven region, particularly for high-value goods. Reliable operations and efficient infrastructure are therefore essential.
Fred Herren, President of Aeria+, emphasised:
“Air freight via Geneva Airport is fundamental for globally active companies. The airport supports thousands of jobs and has economic effects far beyond the aviation sector.”
About the Study
The online survey conducted by Sotomo took place between 22 January and 5 February 2026 and included 3,734 participants, among them 1,210 residents from the airport regions of Zurich, Basel, and Geneva.
The results are representative of the German- and French-speaking resident population of Switzerland aged 18 and over.
Link to full study as pfd download: https://sotomo.ch/site/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/SchweizerLuftfahrt_de.pdf
Link to Sotomo Homepage: https://sotomo.ch/site/projekte/schweizer-luftfahrt/