International Airport Zuerich (LSZH) IFR

Zurich (LSZH) is a large, busy international airport that accommodates general aviation with mandatory handling and slot requirements for both IFR and VFR flights. The preferred and most economical handler is Motorfluggruppe Zürich (MFGZ), contactable at +41 79 899 22 11 or handling@mfgz.ch. Slots must be arranged in advance, typically by phone the day before; VFR slots are limited to specific time windows and require completion of an online familiarisation course. ATC is highly professional, with complex taxi procedures involving multiple frequency changes and specific holding points (not always shown on standard charts), so advance study of parking diagrams is recommended. IFR arrivals are usually vectored to runway 14, with high-speed approaches often requested; departures typically use runway 28 and may involve RNAV SIDs above FL100.

Handling is obligatory, with MFGZ offering the lowest rates. Fees have increased: landing, handling, and tax charges together are about 190–190 CHF; passenger fees range from about 20–25 CHF per person; parking is free for up to two hours or overnight (2300–0600), then charged at around 40 CHF for the first hour and about 12 CHF for each additional hour, totaling approximately 210–220 CHF per day. Example: landing, handling, taxes, one overnight stay, and passenger fees can total about CHF 370–400. Additional surcharges apply for arrivals or departures after 1900 local time.

Fuel (100LL) is available via bowser directly at the aircraft. Payment methods include cash and credit cards. The GAC/GA terminal offers briefing facilities and free WiFi for one hour. Customs clearance is efficient within the terminal.

Ground transport options are excellent: a tram or bus stop is directly outside the GA terminal, with trams to Zurich main station taking about 30 minutes and trains from the main terminal reaching the city in about 10 minutes. Walking distance from GAC to the main terminal ranges from 7–15 minutes; taxis to the city cost around 50–70 CHF.

Strict adherence to slot times is enforced (VFR +/-15 min; IFR clearance within a narrow window). VFR pilots must complete web-based training before booking slots. Procedures can change due to operational constraints such as runway usage or weather; see AIP/NOTAM for current details.

Zurich provides high service standards for GA but at significant cost, making it best suited for short visits or passenger drop-offs rather than extended stays.