The Swiss Air-Rescue Rega is evaluating Bern-Belp Airport as a potential new base for its ambulance jet operations. This move comes as Rega plans to largely relocate from Zurich Airport by 2030. The decision could significantly boost Bern-Belp's role in national emergency services.
Key Takeaways
- Rega is considering Bern-Belp for its ambulance jet operations.
- This potential move is due to Rega's planned departure from Zurich Airport by 2030.
- The new base would require a hangar for three jets and office space for up to 100 staff.
- Bern-Belp Airport would benefit greatly from this new high-value tenant.
- Rega's jets perform approximately 1,000 patient repatriations annually.
Rega Seeks New Jet Base Location
Rega, the Swiss Air-Rescue organization, is exploring options for its ambulance jet operations. The primary reason for this search is its planned relocation from Zurich Airport by the year 2030. While much of Rega's headquarters and helicopter maintenance will move to Kägiswil in Obwalden, this site cannot accommodate jet operations. Therefore, Rega must find a suitable alternative for its fixed-wing aircraft.
Adrian Schindler, a Rega spokesperson, confirmed the ongoing evaluation. He stated that one possibility involves a "space-limited plot in the west of Zurich Airport." However, he added, "Another option could be a location at Bern-Belp Airport." This confirms Bern-Belp as a serious contender for the new jet base.
Rega Jet Operations at a Glance
- Aircraft: Three ambulance jets
- Annual Missions: Approximately 1,000 patient repatriations
- Daily Average: Around 3 missions per day
- Staff: Up to 100 employees needed for the jet base
- Typical Operating Hours: Primarily daytime, with exceptions for urgent night flights
Infrastructure Needs and Staffing
Establishing an ambulance jet base at Bern-Belp would require specific infrastructure. Rega needs a dedicated hangar large enough for its three jets. Additionally, the new location would need sufficient office space. This space would house various personnel essential to jet operations.
The team involved in jet operations is diverse. It includes pilots, flight doctors, intensive care nurses, flight planners, and mission controllers. These professionals work together to transport seriously injured or ill patients from around the world back to Switzerland. The new base would become a critical hub for these international medical transfers.
"We know the location already well," said Adrian Schindler, highlighting Rega's familiarity with Bern-Belp Airport through existing helicopter operations.
The number of staff relocating or newly employed at Bern-Belp could reach up to 100. This estimate depends on the final setup of the base. Such an influx of personnel would represent a significant economic and operational boost for the Bern region.
Evaluating Bern-Belp Versus Zurich
Rega has not publicly detailed the specific advantages and disadvantages of each potential location. However, industry observers can infer some key points. Zurich's main benefit is its proximity to Rega's current personnel base. Many employees live near Zurich. A move to Bern would mean a longer commute for some or a need to relocate.
Conversely, Zurich Airport might present challenges such as higher operational costs and more restricted space within its perimeter. Bern-Belp, on the other hand, likely offers more generous space. It also potentially has lower operating costs. These factors could make Bern a more attractive long-term option for Rega's specialized jet operations.
Rega's Long-Term Relocation Plan
Rega's headquarters at Zurich Airport must move by 2030. This is due to the construction of a new taxiway. Approximately 270 employees are affected by this change. The main headquarters and helicopter maintenance are set to move to Kägiswil in Obwalden. However, the Kägiswil site lacks the necessary infrastructure for jet operations, creating the need for a separate jet base decision.
The Kägiswil relocation is still pending a Federal Supreme Court ruling regarding the future use of the airport. Local groups want to repurpose the airfield, but landowners have resisted. The federal government, which owns the land, will ultimately decide its use. Rega spokesperson Adrian Schindler noted strong local support for the Kägiswil project, calling it "unique" for a Swiss aviation infrastructure project.
Impact on Bern-Belp Airport
For Bern-Belp Airport, securing Rega's ambulance jet base would be a major success. The airport has been actively seeking new business models and revenue streams. It needs more capital for future investments. For example, the airport plans to build a solar power plant on part of its land.
Urs Ryf, CEO and President of Flughafen Bern AG, expressed enthusiasm for the potential move.
"For Bern Airport, this would be a very valuable settlement," Ryf stated. "It strengthens Bern as a location for flights in the public interest."
He noted that other important public interest flights already operate from Bern. These include the Federal Council's jet and Lions Air, which conducts organ transport flights for Swisstransplant.
Rega already has a strong presence in Bern. A Rega helicopter and crew are stationed at Bern-Belp. This Bern-based crew flies approximately 1,100 missions each year. Rega jets also regularly fly to Bern to transfer patients to Inselspital, a major hospital. This existing relationship means Rega is well-acquainted with the airport's operations and capabilities.
Decision Expected Soon
Rega has not announced a specific timeline for its decision. However, with the planned move scheduled for 2030, an announcement is likely in the near future. The selected location will play a crucial role in Rega's ability to continue its vital life-saving missions worldwide. The choice between Zurich and Bern will impact not only the organization but also the regional economies and aviation sectors involved.
The strategic importance of this decision extends beyond just operational logistics. It involves significant investment in infrastructure and a long-term commitment to a specific region. Both Zurich and Bern represent viable but distinct options, each with its own set of benefits and challenges that Rega must carefully weigh.