2019 was a record year for Euroairport Basel-Mulhouse with 9.1 million passengers. Last year, the Franco-Swiss airport platform almost regained this level, missing its pre-Covid performance by just 1.9%. Switzerland's third-largest and France's 6th-largest airport welcomed 8.9 million passengers. Including more than 50% of passengers from the Swiss side.
Last year, around 30 airlines offered flights to 100 destinationsmainly to Europe and the Mediterranean basin. This portfolio of destinations has been diversified with the opening of new routes to MaltaOslo and Dubai. 2025 should enable Basel-Mulhouse to exceed the pre-Covid figures. Euroairport management is forecasting traffic of 9.2 million passengers.
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Now approaching 10 million passengers, the airport is committed to a quality approach, although this is still somewhat hampered by the red tape of an airport managed by two countries.
And so, the programme to link the airport to the direct rail link between Strasbourg/Mulhouse and Basel is a real headache. Planned for over 20 years, it is constantly falling behind schedule. The construction of just six kilometres and the construction of a station are scheduled for 2035.. Against an initial date of 2028 and then 2030...
An expanded terminal by 2030
Another project that seems to be slowing down is theexpansion of the terminal. Currently designed for 8 million passengers, it is now reaching saturation point, having last been reconfigured 20 years ago.
To remedy this, the airport management has already presented the "EMT" (Evolution Modulaire du Terminal) project. The aim of this project is to extend and modernise EuroAirport's terminal infrastructure. The project is divided into separable modules, allowing for gradual implementation. The first module, "city side", comprises a new building of around 14,000 m². on the eastern side of the terminal, as well as the renovation of 15,000 m² of space in the existing terminal. The bulk of the work will take place in the planned expansion incorporating the future station. This will include the creation of a shopping arcade.
The investment amounts to 85 million euros (80 million Swiss francs). Construction is scheduled to start in 2027. completion of the new building by 2030/31.
In the meantime, the airport is implementing an action plan designed to improving service quality. The platform plans to complete several projects between now and 2026. Some projects have already been completed (renovation of the Arrivals level). Others are underway (redevelopment of catering areas) or in the planning stage (renovation of sanitary facilities, signage, improvements to boarding areas, etc.).
The new food outlets will be inaugurated by April 2025, with around ten new banners. The mini-market will be extended. And the Skylounge at the heart of the piste-side pier has just been refurbished.
Sky Lounge renovated in December |
17 December saw the reopening of the Skylounge at Euroairport around a new concept. Operated by Swissport under the brand name "Aspire Executive Lounges", it now offers several sections for all passengers. In fact, the airport has very few high-contribution passengers, with traffic mainly generated by low-cost airlines.
The redesigned lounge has a distinct concept. It is divided into four zones (Café, View, Terrace and Bar). Passengers, regardless of ticket type, have access to the Sky Lounge Café. Admission costs from CHF 19 / € 20 for children, with a drink and snacks.
The Sky Lounge View offers a spacious area with a buffet of hot and cold dishes, as well as a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. The upper floor offers breathtaking views over the tarmac and features a terrace. Finally, the Sky Bar is available for private events and meetings.
