The cargo hangars at Zurich Airport, some dating back to the 1950s and 1960s, no longer fully cater to the demands of today’s cargo business. In response, Flughafen Zürich AG is embarking on the construction of a new cargo hangar, “Fracht Rächtenwisen,” located in the eastern part of the airport. Construction is to commence this April, with dnata Switzerland AG slated to utilize the new infrastructure.
Over the past 60 years, cargo requirements have significantly evolved, with a shift towards transporting smaller goods and freight with diverse needs, such as temperature control. To address this trend towards specialised freight, Flughafen Zürich AG is constructing the modern handling and storage hangar, Fracht Rächtenwisen.
The new facility, spanning nearly 9,500 m², will feature 20 docking ramps for trucks, areas for import/export processes, customs and security checks. Additionally, specialised zones for handling pharmaceutical and hazardous goods will be incorporated. The structure will utilise concrete pillars, a wooden supporting framework and a rooftop photovoltaic system for sustainability.
Upon completion, dnata Switzerland AG, a ground handling service provider, will lease and operate the Rächtenwisen cargo hangar. The project is scheduled for completion in 2027, reinforcing Zurich Airport’s vital role in Switzerland’s import and export landscape, where air freight accounts for roughly 50% of the nation’s exports’ value. The modern infrastructure aims to meet evolving industry demands and uphold the airport’s significance in facilitating global trade.
