Swiss airspace was shut down due to a technical glitch at Swiss air navigation service provider Skyguide on 15 June.

As a result of this, Zurich and Geneva airports in Switzerland halted take-offs and landings for several hours.

The airports resumed their services after the issue was resolved. Skyguide reported that the issue was a hardware glitch and ruled out the possibility of a hack.

In a statement, Skyguide said: “The technical malfunction at Skyguide has been resolved. The airspace closure was lifted at 8.30am. Swiss airspace is now open again and air traffic over Switzerland and operations at the national airports of Geneva and Zurich are resuming.

“Skyguide regrets this incident and its consequences for its customers and partners, as well as for all affected passengers. Skyguide is doing everything in its power to handle the flights efficiently and to keep delays to a minimum.”

The air navigation service provider noted that the malfunction was identified in the early hours of Wednesday, following which Swiss airspace was closed to ensure safety.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

During the airspace closure, some flights were diverted to Milan, Italy.

Due to the disruption, many flights at Geneva airport were also cancelled but were gradually resumed after the issue was resolved.

In February, airport ground services operator Swissport faced a ransomware attack that hit Zurich Airport’s services.

The incident at Swissport, which manages the bulk of the airport’s operations, including baggage handling, aircraft fueling and security, and check-in gates, reportedly delayed 22 flights.