World Economic Forum in Davos: A Practical Guide to Arriving During WEF Week
World Economic Forum in Davos: A Practical Guide to Arriving During WEF Week
Every January, the World Economic Forum (WEF) transforms the alpine town of Davos, Switzerland, nestled in the Swiss Alps, into the epicenter of global dialogue. Political leaders, CEOs, investors, academics, and media representatives gather to discuss the most pressing economic, geopolitical, and technological challenges of our time.
While the discussions inside the Congress Centre shape global agendas, reaching Davos during WEF week can be a challenge in itself. Increased demand, winter conditions, and strict schedules make transportation planning a critical part of attending the Forum. As a result, many delegates explore alternatives to traditional road and rail travel, including private charters and helicopter transfers.
This guide outlines what to expect when traveling to Davos during WEF - and the transportation options commonly used by delegates.
The World Economic Forum: Why Davos Becomes Exceptionally Busy
The World Economic Forum's 56th Annual Meeting (19–23 January 2026) is at peak winter conditions. During this period:
- Road traffic into Davos increases significantly
- Trains and car transfers face congestion and weather-related delays
- Security measures tighten throughout the region
- Time efficiency becomes essential for attendees with packed agendas
As a result, many WEF participants prioritize reliable and flexible transportation, especially when arriving from international airports.
Zurich to Davos: The Most Common Arrival Route
For most international delegates, Zurich Airport (ZRH) is the primary gateway to Davos.
Zurich is:
- Switzerland’s largest international airport
- Well connected to global business hubs
- Located approximately 150 km from Davos
During normal conditions, the journey by road or train can take 2.5 to 3 hours - often longer during WEF week due to traffic restrictions and snowfall. This journey crosses mountainous terrain in the Swiss Alps, where winter weather can significantly impact travel times.
Because of this, Zurich to Davos helicopter transfers have become a widely used solution for executives, officials, and teams seeking to minimize travel time and uncertainty.
Helicopter Transfers to Davos During WEF
Private helicopter transfers is not about luxury during WEF - it is primarily about time efficiency, reliability, and discretion.
Helicopter transfers allow travelers to avoid congested alpine roads in the Swiss Alps, while reducing their travel time significantly. They can maintain flexible departure schedules and arrive closer to Davos with fewer logistical constraints.
Flights typically operate from Zurich Airport or nearby heliports, depending on operational and security considerations and prices start from €7,620. These flights are usually operated as private helicopter charters, tailored to individual schedules and passenger requirements.
Helicopter Models Commonly Used for Davos Transfers
Several helicopter models are commonly deployed for WEF transfers due to their performance in alpine and winter conditions:
Known for its high-altitude performance, the H125 is well suited for alpine environments. It offers excellent stability and reliability in cold-weather operations, making it a frequent choice for Davos routes.
The Bell 407 combines speed, comfort, and efficiency. It is often used for executive transfers requiring a balance between range and cabin comfort.
With a larger cabin and enhanced passenger comfort, the Bell 429 is typically selected for group transfers or missions requiring additional space, while maintaining strong performance in mountainous terrain.
Each aircraft type is selected based on passenger numbers, weather conditions, and operational requirements during WEF week.
Planning Transportation During the World Economic Forum
Because demand peaks sharply during the Forum, transportation planning should be done well in advance. This is especially relevant for private helicopter charters, which are limited in availability during WEF week. Factors to consider include:
- Arrival and departure windows
- Flexibility between meetings
- Weather-related contingencies
- Coordination with security teams and event schedules
Helicopter availability is limited during WEF, and routes such as Zurich–Davos are among the most requested.
Requesting a Helicopter Transfer to Davos
For attendees seeking a reliable way to reach Davos during the World Economic Forum, helicopter charters remain one of the most efficient options available.
If you would like to explore availability, routes, or aircraft options for WEF travel, you can request a tailored quote using the link below:
👉 Request a quote for helicopter transfers to Davos
Why travelers Choose hoper - the world's helicopter platform?
People choose hoper for easy access to helicopter routes, tours, and private charters worldwide, with simple online booking and flights operated by vetted, certified aviation partners.
