If, like me, you have a small airplane lover in your family, you need to make sure you plan some exciting activities to fuel their passion! Whether your child is mesmerized by the sight of planes soaring through the sky, you're preparing them for their first flight, or you’re looking for a fun way to pass the time while waiting at the airport, a visit to an airport observation terrace can be a magical experience.
Why and When to Visit an Airport Viewing Terrace with Kids
There are several great reasons to take your child to an airport viewing terrace:
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Preparing for a First Flight: If you’ve never taken a plane with your baby or toddler, introducing them to the airport environment in a relaxed setting can help reduce anxiety and make the actual journey smoother.
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Encouraging Their Passion: If your little one is fascinated by airplanes, visiting an airport gives them an up-close look at their favorite machines.
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Fun While Waiting: If you’re picking up a family member or friend from the airport, spending time at the observation deck makes the wait enjoyable instead of stressful.
Where to Go: Zurich Airport’s Spectacular Viewing Terrace B
Zurich Airport offers a fantastic spot for plane enthusiasts. Terrace B, located in the public area, is open to everyone and provides a wonderful opportunity to experience the excitement of aviation.
To enter, visitors must pay an entry fee of 5 CHF per adult, while kids under 10 can enter for free. Additionally, you must pass through a security check similar to regular airport security, which provides an excellent opportunity to prepare children for their first flight.
Terrace B – Perfect for a First Airport Experience
Terrace B is an exciting place for children and adults alike. The highlight for young visitors is the airport-themed playground, which features an airplane play structure with a fun slide, small trampolines, and swings suitable for different age groups. There is also a larger slide for older kids and a smaller one designed for babies and toddlers. While children enjoy the playground, parents can relax knowing that they are in a safe and engaging environment.
One of the best features of the terrace is the large glass panels, which provide an unobstructed view of the runways. Kids can watch planes take off and land up close by as well as observing ground staff work.
After all the excitement, families can take a break at Aviolino Bistro, where they can enjoy snacks and drinks while continuing to watch the airport action. The combination of play, learning, and real-life aviation makes this terrace a must-visit for little airplane enthusiasts.
Special Activities and Events
Zurich Airport regularly hosts exciting events and activities at the observation terrace, making each visit unique. Some upcoming events include:
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Sunday, April 20, 2025: Rolli Rollkoffer and the Easter Bunny visit Terrace B
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Wednesday, May 7, 2025: Mascot Day
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Sunday, May 11, 2025: Free entry for all women on Mother’s Day
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Sunday, May 11, 2025: Ranger Talk – Learn about airport operations
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Sunday, June 1, 2025: Free entry for all men on Father’s Day
To check the latest event schedule, visit the Zurich Airport website.
Organized Tours for a Deeper Experience
For those who want to gain an even deeper understanding of airport operations, Zurich Airport offers guided bus tours that take visitors behind the scenes. The tours begin at Terrace B, where an experienced guide meets the group and provides an overview of the airport using a large aerial photo.
Passengers then board a special airport tour bus, which drives across the tarmac, bringing them up close to taxiing, refueling, and loading planes. The tour passes by aircraft maintenance hangars, the airfield maintenance area with its specialized vehicles, and even the airport’s rescue and fire services.
One of the most exciting moments is the stop at the runway intersection (Pistenkreuz), where visitors can step out of the bus and experience takeoffs and landings from just meters away. The journey also includes a look at the cargo area, the REGA rescue hangar, and the long-haul aircraft at Dock E, before concluding back at Terrace B, where guests can continue their visit at their own pace.
For more information or to book a tour, visit the Zurich Airport website: Guided Tours at Zurich Airport.
What to Bring for a Successful Visit
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Snacks and Drinks: Watching planes can be mesmerizing, but kids get hungry quickly!
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Binoculars: Enhance their experience by letting them zoom in on the aircraft.
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Activity Book or Notebook: Let them draw what they see or write about their favorite planes.
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Weather-Appropriate Clothing: The observation deck is outdoors, so dress accordingly.
A Must-Do for Little Plane Enthusiasts
Visiting an airport viewing terrace is a fantastic activity that combines learning and fun. It’s perfect for preparing a child for their first flight, indulging an aviation passion, or making the wait at the airport more enjoyable.
So next time you need an exciting outing, head to Zurich Airport’s observation terrace and watch your child’s eyes light up as they witness the magic of aviation!
