Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA)

In Focus

Mandatory use of flight simulators for pilot training and examination

Under European provisions, the training, practical examination and proficiency check for class and type ratings for SPA (single-pilot aeroplanes) and helicopters should be carried out as far as possible in a flight simulator. The systematic use of simulators will result in fewer flights, which will have a positive impact on the environment. Operators have twelve months to comply.

Alcohol testing as part of ramp inspections

In mid-August, the first ramp inspections including alcohol tests were carried out in collaboration with Zurich Airport Police. A total of 25 crew members were tested in three inspections. The random alcohol tests as part of the ramp inspections were introduced EU-wide following the Germanwings accident of 2015.

Additional information

New FOCA website structure

The FOCA has restructured its website: the topics attracting most interest are now more easily accessible. The new version of the website is online since 11 July.
Page URLs have changed, favourites and links within documents may no longer work. Some contents have also been moved.

Information on holiday flights

In connection with the upcoming holidays and the associated travel period, the FOCA would like to highlight that there may be waiting times at airports for check-in and at security and border controls. For a safe and stress-free journey, please take the following information into account.

Conflict in Ukraine

Russia's invasion of Ukraine is affecting numerous areas, including air traffic. The Federal Council is monitoring the situation closely and is taking the necessary measures step by step.
Additional information

The Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA) is responsible for aviation development and the supervision of civil aviation activities in Switzerland. The FOCA is part of the Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC) and is charged with ensuring that the high safety standards in civil aviation in Switzerland are maintained, and with pursuing a policy of sustainable development.

Topics

Drones and aircraft models

Regulation and up to date information

Sachplan Verkehr, Teil Infrastruktur Luftfahrt (SIL)

Sectoral Aviation Infrastructure Plan (SAIP)

The Sectoral Aviation Infrastructure Plan (SAIP) is the federal government's planning and coordination instrument for civil aviation.

Statistics

Civil aviation statistics comprise data relating to airports and airlines.

Press releases

Note: Most Press releases are only available in German, French and Italian. Please check the FOCA homepage of these languages.

Press Releases

All

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To the Federal Administration News Portal

Stay Safe

Stay Safe website (access without Facebook)

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