Light aviation loses space at EuroAirport
EuroAirport intends to cease light aviation operations by the end of 2026 at the latest for planning and business reasons. The AeCS regrets EuroAirport's decision.
Since 1967, EuroAirport has provided infrastructure for light aviation in the North Zone. The airport intends to use this space for commercial aviation infrastructure from 2030. The Swiss Aero Club regrets the decision, which means a further loss of space for light aviation. AeCS Central President Matthias Jauslin made a statement on Radio SRF 1's Regionaljournal Basel Baselland.
This decision is a disaster. "Such airfields with their own flight schools are vital for the survival of private aviation." In particular, our Central President addressed the argument that light aviation at airports is not economically viable. For him, this argument is far too short-sighted. After all, the career of every pilot begins in a small aircraft. "It is therefore crucial that low-threshold access to flying is ensured."
Interpellation to the Federal Council
Jauslin believes that the fact that light aviation is increasingly being squeezed out of airports should also worry politicians. "I find it frightening how casually the Federal Council is accepting this development," says Jauslin. "Everyone is crying out for local specialists, and at the same time we are removing the basis for training." Almost a year ago, Jauslin drew attention to the future of light aviation in Basel-Mulhouse with a Interpellation to the Federal Council. The answers are unsatisfactory from the point of view of light aviation.
High investments required
EuroAirport refers to the fact that considerable investment in the existing infrastructure would have been necessary in order to continue to meet the regulatory requirements. These investments could not be amortized until the expected utilization limit of this area in 2030. From then on, EuroAirport intends to use the area for an expansion and modernization project.
Greater coordination effort
In addition to the planning reasons, EuroAirport also cites operational reasons for its decision. For example, the operation of light and leisure aviation has not been economically viable for several years. The parallel handling of light, leisure and commercial air traffic impaired operational efficiency and led to higher coordination costs. In addition, there have been various aviation incidents in the past, which have put additional strain on operations.
AeCS Central President Matthias Jauslin in the Basel Baselland Regional Journal of 8.8.25