Climate protection

Emission charges

An additional pollutant-dependent emission charge is levied on the landing fees. The emission factor is determined by the aircraft engines. With the national introduction of this fee, a steering goal was primarily pursued: To reduce the specific emissions from air traffic, i.e. to promote and accelerate the use of the best possible technology through financial incentives.

Aircraft / Runway de-icing 

Introduction of a new de-icing technology: Airfirst

In 2012, Bern Airport became the first swiss airport to use a new de-icing technology for aircraft. In the conventional de-icing process, a relatively large amount of de-icing fluid (propylene glycol) is used, depending on the weather conditions. This liquid consists of a chemical composition including glycol (antifreeze) and is up to 98% biodegradable. The American manufacturer JBT has developed a device in which less liquid is used to de-ice an aircraft with the support of an air jet. With the use of this technology, depending on the weather, up to 50% of de-icing fluid can be saved.

Reporting aircraft and runway de-icing 

The processes and the handling of de-icing wastewater as well as the facts relevant to water protection (analysis results, discharged water quantities, etc.) are documented in an annual report for the attention of the Cantonal Office for Water and Waste (AWA).

Report on the use of runway de-icing agent GEN3

The influence of runway de-icing agent on the water quality of the Belpmoos drainage has been investigated and documented annually since 2011 by a team of environmental experts. 

Reduction of CO2 emossions 

The continuous renewal of the vehicle fleet and equipment has reduced CO2 emissions at Bern Airport. The reduction was favoured in particular by vehicles with electric drives such as tow trucks and forklifts.

Reduction of power consumption

Around 50% of all lighting elements at Berne Airport (in buildings and aircraft movement areas) have already been converted to LED and electricity consumption reduced accordingly. All defective lighting elements are being converted to LED on an ongoing basis. 

Renewable energy 

The airport relies almost exclusively on renewable energies for its electricity supply.

Drainage system

The drainage system and the flight operation areas are continuously maintained and remedial measures are implemented where necessary. These precautions ensure that the water protection regulations are complied with.