Important projects

Runway refurbishment

'The refurbishment of the oldest, in fact, the over 50 years old runway section, which was completed in stages, started in August 2016. In a first stage, preparatory work in the civil engineering area was executed and cable routes were completely replaced. This work laid the foundation for the light replacement with modern LED-technology as well as the actual refurbishment and repair of the runway surface. This second stage started in May 2017. During the intensive construction phase of about three weeks, four asphalt finisher and ten rolling mills were used simultaneously. Subsequently, the 1.310 meter long surface area was grooved in order to ensure the water outflow. The biggest challenge was the implementation of the work without impairing the air traffic and in compliance with the regulations regarding quality, safety, and environment. The refurbishment of the surface was successfully completed at the end of June 2017.

4th expansion phase

According to the planning mission statement, the master plan comprises the structural development of Bern Airport until the year 2022. The 4th expansion phase is an important part of it and includes a partial relocation of the air traffic to the southwest of the area. In addition to the division of the different types of traffic (regular and charter flights as well as Business Aviation in the existing area, General Aviation in the southwest), new ramps and hangars are at the heart of the development. In total, 18 million of Swiss francs are going to be invested, among others, in a site for aircraft engine testing with a noise protection building (apron shelter) to reduce the noise pollution for the population.

 

The planning consent was granted in 2015 and had the force of law after having gotten the go-ahead from the federal court in January 2018. Due to the limited investment strength, the implementation occurs gradually. In a first phase, taxiway, apron shelter, parts of the apron area, and hangars are going be realized for General Aviation.

Construction projects and environmental construction monitoring

Construction projects are assessed with regard to their ecological impact and the necessary measures to protect the environment are defined. These measures are integrated into the call for tenders for the work and anchored in the work contract. The implementation of the measures in the execution phase is monitored and enforced by environmental experts. The quality of the implemented measures is checked by means of success controls and, if necessary, improvements are made.