Skyguide, there will be 50 redundancies (cross-border guide)

Context

In a nutshell

• Skyguide: 50 confirmed layoffs (14 hours, ~35 spring 2027)
• The consultation reduced the number from 220 initials to 50
• Savings target: CHF 51 million
• 141 trade union proposals examined and accepted where significant

Key facts

• What: Restructuring of Skyguide with reduction in staff
• When: First wave in progress, second wave spring 2027
• Company: Skyguide — Swiss air traffic control
• Who: Employees, trade unions and workers' representatives
• Savings amount: CHF 51 million
• Reduced positions: Approximately 200 work positions
• Initial number: Up to 220 redundancies expected at the start of the consultation
• Proposals examined: 141 submitted by employees and trade unions

Skyguide has officially confirmed 50 layoffs in its restructuring program. A result achieved thanks to the consultation process with the social partners, which made it possible to significantly reduce the number of redundancies compared to the initial forecasts. The air traffic control company will proceed with 14 layoffs in a first wave, while a second wave, scheduled for spring 2027, will affect around 35 positions. The overall reduction of 50 seats represents a milestone in the constructive negotiation that took place during the consultative process.

Trade union consultation: from 220 to 50

At the start of the consultation, Skyguide had indicated up to 220 possible

Operational details

Implications for the Swiss labour market

The restructuring of Skyguide represents a significant case for the Swiss employment market. The air traffic control company is a strategic component of the national transport infrastructure, and the announced layoffs have direct effects on the aviation and airport services sector. With 50 redundancies concentrated in two waves during 2026 and early 2027, Skyguide contributes to national employment dynamics. For context, we recall that Switzerland constantly monitors the unemployment rate through data provided by the SECO (State Secretariat for the Economy), and every employment event of this scale has implications for national labour market statistics.

The number of 50 redundancies, although significant, was significantly reduced by the consultation. If it had stayed at 220, it would have been a bigger shock to the industry. The reduction from 220 to 50 testifies to the effectiveness of the dialogue procedure in mitigating occupational damage.

How trade union consultation works in Switzerland

The process that led to the reduction of redundancies from 220 to 50 exemplifies the Swiss consultation model, based on tripartite dialogue between employers, workers and trade union representatives. The presentation of 141 proposals by collaborators and trade unions, and their constructive evaluation by

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Key points

What to do if you are a Skyguide employee

If you work at Skyguide and are affected by the restructuring, it is essential to understand your rights and the deadlines involved. The union consultation has already reduced the number of redundancies, but this does not eliminate the uncertainty for those who could be involved. Acting promptly allows you to plan your professional and financial future with greater peace of mind.

Procedure and critical deadlines

The first wave of 14 redundancies is already underway or imminent. If you have not yet received official communications from your employer, check directly the status of your position. The second wave, expected for spring 2027 (around 35 redundancies), gives you a few months to plan any actions if your role has been identified as at risk. Do not wait for a formal communication: proactivity is essential in these scenarios.

Your rights in case of dismissal

In Switzerland, dismissal for economic reasons is regulated by the federal labour law and by the collective agreements specific to the sector. If you were affected, you have the right to receive formal notice (the duration depends on your contract and position), and potentially a severance package if negotiated during the consultation procedure. During the consultation process, many employees may have negotiated improved conditions such as early payment of the end-of-employment benefit, professional training for the job search, or outplacement support. Check with your company's union representatives whether special conditions have been obtained in your area.

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