Francine Zimmermann Appointed Director of Swiss FOCA — A Milestone for Aviation and Drone Integration
The Drone Industry Association Switzerland (DIAS) warmly congratulates Ms. Francine Zimmermann on her appointment as the new Director of the Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA / OFAC), effective 1 April 2026.
This decision, announced by the Swiss Federal Council on 26 September 2025, marks a significant moment for civil aviation oversight in Switzerland.
From Within FOCA to Its Helm
At 42 years of age, Zimmermann brings both deep institutional experience and strategic capability to her new role. Already serving as vice-director of FOCA, she was co-responsible for the Strategy & Aviation Policy division and a member of the leadership team.
She steps into this leadership position following the retirement of Christian Hegner, whose tenure at the agency has come to an end.
Her background as an economist and her many years working on aviation policy within FOCA equip her with the institutional fluency needed to guide Switzerland’s civil aviation sector through evolving regulatory, technical, and industry challenges.
What This Means for the Drone Sector
For DIAS and for Swiss drone operators, this appointment is particularly meaningful. Over her career, Zimmermann has already played a central role in shaping FOCA’s drone policy and regulation. Her move to the top position signals continuity, but also the potential for further strategic momentum.
DIAS’s Message of Support
We at DIAS express our confidence in Ms. Zimmermann’s ability to lead FOCA into this next era. Having collaborated with her during her earlier roles, we know she understands both the technical and operational complexities of integrating drones safely and responsibly into Swiss airspace.
We look forward to continuing our dialogue with FOCA under her leadership and contributing to rule-making that fosters innovation, safeguards safety, and strengthens Switzerland’s standing in drone technology.
We wish Ms. Zimmermann every success in her new role.
The Drone Industry Association Switzerland (DIAS)