Rega Considers Bern-Belp Airport for New Jet Base

Rega, Switzerland's air rescue service, is exploring the Bern-Belp Airport as a potential new home for its jet operations. This move comes as Rega faces a deadline to vacate its current main base at Zurich Airport by the end of 2030. The relocation could bring approximately 100 skilled jobs to the Bern region, including pilots, medical staff, and administrative personnel.

The search for a new location is critical for Rega's long-term operational strategy. While a new helicopter base is planned for Kägiswil, Obwalden, the facility cannot accommodate Rega's larger jets. Bern-Belp Airport offers significant advantages, including available space and less air traffic compared to Zurich.

Key Takeaways

Rega must leave Zurich Airport by 2030 due to new taxiway construction.
Bern-Belp Airport is a strong candidate for Rega's new jet base.
The move would create around 100 jobs in Bern.
Bern-Belp has sufficient space and lower air traffic volume.
A final decision from Rega's leadership is expected soon.

Rega's Relocation Mandate and Space Needs

Rega's decision to seek a new jet base stems from a requirement to clear its current hangars at Zurich Airport. These facilities are located directly in the path of a planned new taxiway. The deadline for this move is late 2030.

Beyond the taxiway issue, Rega also requires more space for its expanding operations. The organization plans a separate new base for its helicopters in Kägiswil, Obwalden. However, this site is not suitable for the larger jets used for long-distance patient transfers and other missions. This separation of jet and helicopter operations necessitates finding a distinct location for the jet fleet.

The current situation highlights the need for a strategic long-term solution that ensures Rega's continued ability to provide critical air rescue services across Switzerland and internationally.

Fact: Rega's Fleet

Rega operates a fleet of rescue helicopters and ambulance jets. The jets are crucial for repatriating patients from abroad and for transfers within Switzerland that require longer distances or specific medical configurations.

Bern-Belp Emerges as a Key Option

Initial discussions have taken place between Rega and Bern-Belp Airport officials regarding the potential relocation. Rega spokesperson Adrian Schindler confirmed these contacts, as reported by Tamedia newspapers. While Schindler did not provide extensive details, the engagement indicates serious consideration of Bern-Belp.

"There have been initial contacts with Bern-Belp Airport," said Rega spokesperson Adrian Schindler.

One of the main reasons for Bern-Belp's appeal is the availability of space. The airport has a designated area in its western section that is already approved for the construction of new hangars. This pre-approved status could significantly streamline the development process for Rega's new facilities.

Urs Ryf, CEO of Bern Airport, emphasized this advantage to SRF. "We have an area in the west of the airport where the construction of new hangars is already approved," Ryf stated. This existing approval makes Bern-Belp a highly attractive option for Rega, which requires a large hangar for its three jets and ample office space for staff.

Economic and Operational Advantages for Bern

A move to Bern-Belp would bring substantial economic benefits to the region. The approximately 100 new jobs would be highly skilled positions, including pilots, flight physicians, paramedics, dispatchers, and administrative personnel. This influx of qualified professionals would be a significant boost for the local economy.

Context: Bern's Economic Landscape

Bern's economy has faced challenges in recent years. The arrival of a major employer like Rega, offering high-quality jobs, would be a welcome development for the canton.

Beyond job creation, the operational environment at Bern-Belp presents advantages for Rega. The airport experiences significantly less air traffic compared to Zurich Airport. This lower traffic volume could simplify flight planning and reduce potential delays for Rega's critical missions.

Christoph Zimmerli, an FDP Grand Councillor and president of the Bern Air Traffic Interest Group, expressed strong support for the potential move. "The Bernese economy has had to cope with enough bad news recently," Zimmerli noted. "The highly qualified jobs from Rega—pilots, doctors, operations managers—would be very welcome."

Addressing Noise Concerns and Flight Volume

While the prospect of Rega relocating to Bern-Belp is largely positive, concerns about increased noise levels have been raised. Beat Kohler, a Green Party Grand Councillor in Bern, acknowledged these concerns. "These flights would certainly be more sensible than others we have in Belp," Kohler commented, but added that noise pollution must be monitored closely.

Airport CEO Urs Ryf addressed these worries by highlighting the airport's existing capacity. "We have a quota of up to 75,000 flight movements per year. Only 45,000 of these are currently utilized," Ryf explained.

Even with Rega's estimated 1,000 additional flights annually, the total number of movements would remain well below the permitted limit. Rega spokesperson Adrian Schindler also clarified that jet flights are generally more predictable than helicopter emergency missions. Most take-offs and landings would occur during the day, with nighttime flights being rare and reserved for urgent cases.

The Road Ahead for Rega's Decision

The final decision on the new jet base location will be made by Rega's executive board and foundation council. The exact timeline for this decision has not been publicly announced, but it is expected to happen relatively soon, given the 2030 deadline.

The chosen site will need to be ready with new hangars and office facilities well before the end of 2030 to ensure a smooth transition from Zurich Airport. The relocation represents a significant logistical undertaking for Rega, but one that is essential for its future operations and ability to serve the Swiss population effectively.