Automated drone detection for greater security at Zurich Airport
Zurich Airport protects its airspace from unauthorized drone flights with an automated drone detection system. The solution from Swisscom Broadcast enables an early, targeted response – 24/7.
Drone detection system for Zurich Airport 4 min.
With over 261,000 aircraft movements per year, Zurich Airport is Switzerland's most important international transportation hub. A secure airspace around the airport is essential for smooth operations. To enable fast and controlled responses to drone sightings, the airport has opted for a professional solution for automated drone detection.
- Employees: Approx. 30,000
- Sector: Transportation and aviation services
- Head office: Zurich
- In operation since 1948
- Over 30 million passengers in 2024
- All-round drone surveillance for a defined perimeter around Zurich Airport
- Real-time detection and classification of authorized and unauthorized drones
- Targeted response enabled by flexible alert zones and clearly defined reporting processes
New requirements for airspace security
In the past, unauthorized drone flights have repeatedly caused operational disruptions. The airport therefore sought a solution that would not only detect drones, but also classifies them and allows for an informed assessment of the situation. Today, the drone detection system from Swisscom Broadcast ensures continuous and early detection, regardless of weather conditions or time of day.
More security. More clarity. Less effort.
Since the system’s implementation, the risk posed by unauthorized drone flights in the airport's vicinity has been significantly reduced. The system works around the clock, detects drones in real time and automatically alerts the relevant authorities. Response time are shortened, and procedures are clearly defined – without the need for additional coordination.
A particular advantage: freely configurable alert zones within the monitored airspace allow for flexible evaluations. Potentially critical flights are reliably and promptly identified. The system also distinguishes between registered and unregistered drones, enabling documentation and tracking of security-related drone incidents when necessary.
The system runs autonomously in the background and continuously provides relevant data. It enhances transparency and adds a digital layer of protection to the airport’s existing security architecture.
