Zurich airport (ZRH)

Zurich Airport (ZRH), also known as Kloten Airport, is Switzerland’s main air terminal and one of the most important connection hubs in Europe. Opened at its current location on 17 November 1948, it stands out for its operational efficiency and its integration with the national rail network, connecting the region with numerous international destinations across all continents.

Official Website: flughafen-zuerich.ch

Telephone: +41 43 816 22 11

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Terminals

The complex operates under a centralised terminal concept that remains open 24 hours a day. It is functionally divided into the Airport Center (public area for services and transport) and the Airside Center (passenger-only area after security control). Boarding is organised through three main piers:

• Gates A: Mainly used for flights within the Schengen area.
• Gates B/D: Handle both Schengen and non-Schengen flights through flexible passport control.
• Gates E: Located in a satellite building in the middle of the runways for long-haul international flights, connected to the main building via the automated underground train Skymetro.

Annual Traffic (2024): 31.2 million passengers.

Information Points

You will find assistance distributed at strategic points to facilitate your transit through the airport:

• Service Centre: Located on level 1 of car park 2 (public area), open from 6:00 am to 11:30 pm. It is the main point for general services and lost property.
• Airside Desk: Situated in the boarding area of the Airside Center, available from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm for passengers in transit.
• Tourist Information: "Zurich Tourism" service points located in arrivals halls 1 and 2, operating from 6:00 am to 11:00 pm.

 Location

The airport is located in the municipality of Kloten, 9 km (5.5 miles) north of Zurich city centre.

Parking services at Zurich airport (ZRH)

The site features a highly efficient parking infrastructure, with more than 10,000 spaces spread across multi-storey buildings and outdoor areas. All parking options are designed to provide quick access to check-in and arrivals areas via covered walkways or dedicated transport services.

Premium Parking (P1, P2, P3)

These multi-storey facilities are ideal for short and medium stays, offering direct access to the airport complex in less than 3 minutes on foot.

• P1: Directly connected to Check-in 1 and Arrivals Hall 1.
• P2: Immediate access to Check-in 2 and Arrivals Hall 2.
• P3: Located above the Airport Center, providing access to Check-in 3 and the railway station.

Long-Stay Parking (P6, P60, P65)

For trips lasting several days or weeks, the airport offers more economical rates in areas slightly further from the central hub:

• P6: Covered building located about 5 minutes’ walk from the terminal via a weather-protected walkway. It is the preferred option for longer stays requiring vehicle protection.
• P60: Remote outdoor area, ideal for very long stays. Requires online booking and is about 15 minutes’ walk from the terminal.
• P65: Outdoor area located 5–7 minutes away, connected by a free shuttle bus. Available exclusively by advance online reservation.

Electric Charging Stations

The airport promotes sustainable mobility through electric vehicle charging stations located in car parks P1, P2, P3 and P6. These charging points are operated by external providers and allow vehicles to be charged while parked.

Valet Parking and Special Services

For added convenience, the Valet Parking service allows you to drop off your vehicle directly at the departure area (Check-in 1) or at car park P3. Specialised staff handle the parking, and the vehicle is returned to the agreed point upon the passenger’s return. There are also designated free spaces for motorcycles, clearly signposted near the main car parks.

Passenger Drop-off and Pick-up

There are designated areas for short stops:

• Departures (Drop-off): Lanes located in front of Check-in 1 and 2 for dropping off passengers.
• Arrivals (Pick-up): Lanes in front of Arrivals Halls 1 and 2 for collecting passengers.

These areas are subject to per-minute charges from the very first moment to ensure traffic flow. For waits longer than a few minutes, it is recommended to use car parks P1 or P2.

Check rates and book parking

Facilities for passengers with special needs

Zurich Airport is designed to be fully accessible, offering adapted infrastructure and specialised services for passengers with reduced mobility, sensory impairments or special communication needs.

Assistance for Reduced Mobility

To ensure a smooth journey, it is essential to arrange assistance with your airline or travel agency at least 48 hours before your flight. Airport staff provide support from designated meeting points to your aircraft seat, as well as during arrivals and transit processes.

Meeting points: There are clearly marked call columns (steles) in Check-in areas 1, 2 and 3, in car parks P1, P2, P3 and P6, as well as at the railway station and bus terminal.

Infrastructure and Accessibility

• Tactile paving: The airport features tactile guidance routes integrated into the pavement to support independent navigation for visually impaired passengers.
• Adapted facilities: All levels are accessible via lifts and ramps. Toilets throughout the airport are adapted for wheelchair users.
• Parking: Dedicated parking spaces are reserved next to lifts in all airport car parks. In car park P2, these spaces are located on the entry levels.
• Hearing systems: Information desks and various boarding areas are equipped with induction loops for hearing aid users.

Unaccompanied Minors

The airport offers an escort service for children aged between 5 and 11 (and up to 17 upon request) travelling alone. Staff accompany the child from the check-in desk, through security and passport control, and supervise them in dedicated waiting areas until boarding. Upon arrival, the child is assisted with baggage collection and handed over only to the authorised person.

Invisible Disabilities

Zurich Airport recognises the Sunflower Lanyard scheme. If you have a non-visible disability (such as autism, dementia or sensory conditions), you can request this lanyard at information desks. It allows airport staff to discreetly identify that you may need extra time or specific assistance during airport processes.