In a first‑ever joint evaluation by Germany’s Vereinigung Cockpit and Switzerland’s Aeropers pilot associations, Zurich Airport (ZRH) was ranked third‑safest overall among 31 German and Swiss airports, placing it ahead of Geneva and Basel
Published on July 23, 2025, the Swissinfo article reports that pilots rated airports based on critical safety concerns, such as the likelihood of runway overshoot or aircraft/vehicle intrusions, and the proactive measures airports have implemented to prevent such scenarios. Among the evaluated airports, Munich Airport (MUC) topped the list, followed by Leipzig/Halle, with Zurich securing a strong third place. In contrast, Geneva ranked lower, around 26th place, and Basel at approximately 30th
Why Zurich Scored Highly
Pilots particularly highlighted Zurich’s consistent deployment of “stop‑bars”—red light chains on taxiways leading to active runways that automatically prevent runway incursions. This feature is mandatory at Zurich, whereas it remains optional at many German airports. Safety committees at Zurich also include direct pilot input—another factor where airports like Frankfurt fell short.
While Zurich earned “excellent” overall ratings, they did dock it slightly for taxiway signage clarity, which prevented it from attaining a perfect score
Safety Technology & Operational Culture
Zurich has long invested in integrated safety enhancements. Since 2019, it has implemented Indra’s Advanced Runway Safety Improvement (ARSI) system in partnership with Skyguide. This system detects conflicting control instructions or pilot deviations and issues instant electronic alerts, significantly reducing risk on intersecting runways.
Moreover, Zurich benefits from a robust Safety Management System (SMS)—a structured, proactive framework overseen by Flughafen Zürich AG. The airport emphasizes incident reporting culture, regular internal and external audits, and comprehensive emergency drills, thus reinforcing transparent and continuous safety performance
Broader Recognition
Zurich’s commitment to security and passenger wellbeing has also been recognized in global Skytrax awards: in 2023 it was named the world’s best airport for security controls, praised for its system efficiency, courteous staff, and short waiting times.
Zurich Airport achieves one of the top safety rankings in the German‑Swiss pilot‑rated survey, coming in third place behind Munich and Leipzig/Halle, and surpassing both Geneva and Basel. Key strengths include mandatory stop‑bar systems, pilot-inclusive safety committees, cutting‑edge runway‑safety technology, and a strong safety culture supported by international certifications and awards. Its investment in both physical safeguards and organizational processes firmly positions Zurich among Europe’s safest and most trusted airports.
