20 FAQs about Zurich Airport
All the information featured on this page was compiled and written by David Enrich, a renowned expert in aviation and airport guides, since 1999.
This webpage is an informational guide and is not associated with, affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Flughafen Zürich AG, and that visitors intending to reach the official site should visit flughafen-zuerich.ch
1. How many terminals does Zurich Airport (ZRH) have?
Zurich Airport has a main Airside Center with three gate areas or docks: A, B/D, and E, often grouped as two terminal buildings plus the separate Midfield Terminal E.
2. How far is Zurich Airport from Zurich city center?
Zurich Airport is located in Kloten, just north of Zurich, and is about 10–12 km from the city center, depending on the route.
3. How do I get from Zurich Airport to Zurich city center?
You can take frequent trains (S-Bahn and InterCity) from the airport station under the terminal to Zürich Hauptbahnhof in about 10–12 minutes, or use trams, buses, taxis, and rideshares from the forecourt.
4. Does Zurich Airport have a train station?
Yes, Zurich Airport has its own railway station located beneath the Airport Shopping area, with frequent regional S-Bahn and long-distance trains.
5. How long does the Skymetro between the main terminal and Dock E take?
The Skymetro automated underground train between the Airside Center and Dock E is free and takes about 2–3 minutes, running every few minutes.
6. How early should I arrive at Zurich Airport before my flight?
For European/Schengen flights, arriving about 2 hours before departure is usually sufficient, while for long-haul or non-Schengen flights, 2.5–3 hours is generally recommended due to passport control and security.
7. Is Zurich Airport easy to connect through?
Yes, Zurich is known as a compact and efficient hub where check-in, security, and transfer processes are generally quick, though walking times to Dock E can add 15–30 minutes including Skymetro and passport control.
8. How busy is Zurich Airport?
Zurich Airport is Switzerland’s busiest airport, handling tens of thousands of passengers per day and acting as a major European hub, especially busy during peak holiday and business travel periods.
9. Which airlines use Zurich Airport as a hub?
Swiss International Air Lines uses Zurich as its main hub, with Edelweiss Air and several Star Alliance partners such as Lufthansa also operating extensive services.
10. Is there free Wi‑Fi at Zurich Airport?
Zurich Airport offers free Wi‑Fi access; passengers typically register with their phone number or email to get a time-limited free session that can be extended or upgraded.
11. Can I sleep at Zurich Airport during a long layover?
Passengers often sleep airside and landside at Zurich Airport, which has generally clean, safe seating areas and some quieter zones, plus on-site and nearby hotels for more comfort
12. Are there lounges at Zurich Airport and can I access them without status?
Zurich Airport has several lounges, including Swiss and independent lounges, and many can be accessed by paying at the door or using lounge membership programs even without airline status.
13. How are Schengen and non‑Schengen flights separated at Zurich?
All passengers pass through the same central security area into the Airside Center, then are separated later by Schengen and non‑Schengen flows via passport control on the way to their gates.
14. How long does it take to walk to Dock E from security?
From security through passport control and the Skymetro ride, passengers typically need around 15–30 minutes to reach gates at Dock E, depending on queues and walking speed.
15. Is Zurich Airport good for shopping and dining?
Yes, Zurich Airport has extensive shopping and dining in the Airport Center (landside) and Airside Center, including duty-free, Swiss specialty shops, supermarkets, cafés, and restaurants.
16. What parking options are available at Zurich Airport?
Zurich Airport offers short-term parking near the terminals and several multi-storey or long-term car parks connected to the terminal complex, with different price levels by distance and duration
17. Are there special services for passengers with reduced mobility at Zurich?
Zurich Airport provides assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair help, designated parking spaces, accessible toilets, and staff support when booked in advance through the airline.
18. Does Zurich Airport have a left-luggage or baggage storage service?
Zurich Airport offers luggage storage and related services, typically located in or near the Airport Center, where passengers can store bags for hours or days for a fee.
19. Is there a hotel at or next to Zurich Airport?
There are several hotels connected or adjacent to Zurich Airport, including properties integrated into the airport complex or at The Circle and others reachable in a short shuttle or walk.
20. Where can I find official information about Zurich Airport?
Official information on flights, terminal maps, services, and transport is available on the airport’s website at zurich-airport.com, which is updated regularly.