It takes many support functions to maintain flight operations: administration, catering, aircraft upkeep and maintenance, loading, unloading, or supplying air-conditioning and electricity to aircraft on the ground. SWISS outsources many such activities.

Likewise, rented office space offers few ways to reduce environmental impact since the heating, air-conditioning and building fabric have to be taken "as is".

No quantitative assessments exist as to the environmental impact of these support functions. Compared to flight operations, their footprint is minimal. Nonetheless, SWISS is making every effort to make these activities as environmentally friendly as possible.

De-icing
Aircraft cannot take off if covered with ice and snow, particularly on flight surfaces and the tail. This affects the aerodynamics and poses a major safety hazard. That is why aircraft with accumulated frost, snow or ice are prohibited from taking off. In winter weather conditions, specially trained personnel have to de-ice critical surfaces of the aircraft with a propylene glycol/water mixture and prevent them from re-icing. It takes 350 litres of de-icing agent and 450 litres of hot water to de-ice a single A340 long-haul aircraft on average. Half this amount is needed for frost, and up to three times this amount for heavy snowfall. De-icing agents are readily biodegradable. Problems may result from the intermittent use.


Zurich Airport
Zurich Airport – SWISS's hub – has also taken steps to reduce its environmental impact. In 1997, it became the world's first airport to levy an emissions charge. The charge is calculated based on the aircraft's engine emissions and can reach 40% of the landing fee. 

Unique, the airport operator, has installed a stationary energy system for aircraft at the fingerdocks. This allows a considerable reduction in the use of auxiliary power units on the ground, thereby lowering emissions.