Zurich Airport: Security Check overhaul faces delays

Zurich Airport had planned to catch up with the international leaders by summer 2025 by installing new high-performance equipment. Twenty-six computer tomography (CT) scanners were to revolutionize security checks: liquids and laptops could remain in bags, and processing would become faster and more convenient.

But while other airports such as Frankfurt and Madrid have long since been fully equipped, Zurich is lagging behind. It is becoming apparent that the original timetable for full conversion by summer 2025 is increasingly at risk.

Nevertheless, initial experiences with the new CT scanners have been overwhelmingly positive. «The test phase, which started last summer with two devices, was successfully completed and met our expectations in terms of passenger satisfaction and efficiency», airport spokeswoman Jasmin Bodmer-Breu told Travelnews.

The airport is planning further adjustments to better integrate the system with existing infrastructure. For instance, a lighting-based guidance system is expected to enhance passenger orientation.

Additionally, modifications will be made to the design of the new control routes. Currently, there is a slight incline in the system: after passengers load their trays, they are transported via a gently inclined conveyor belt to the entrance level of the CT scanner. They are then returned to the original system height using a similarly inclined conveyor belt. The airport aims to eliminate this level difference.

Rectifications are disrupting the schedule

The rollout is facing setbacks as the focus has shifted from rapid implementation to structural improvements and technical fine-tuning, making the original timeline for full implementation increasingly unrealistic.

«We are currently unable to provide any detailed information about the exact time of full implementation», admits Bodmer-Breu. The plan is to first equip all security lines for local departing passengers with the new scanners. «This reorganization will happen in stages, and we will use the quieter times to minimize the impact on passenger operations», says the airport spokeswoman.

This assessment leaves little hope for a rapid, comprehensive introduction of the new CT scanners. Zurich Airport's quietest months – November, January, and February – have just passed.

For the time being, passengers will still need to remove liquids from their bags, take laptops out of their cases, and remain patient. It will likely take longer than expected for the modernized security checkpoints to have a real impact on daily travel routines.