Vienna International Airport is the largest airport in Austria and a significant hub for travel in Central and Eastern Europe. Located in Schwechat, approximately 18 kilometers southeast of Vienna city center, the airport opened in 1954 on the site of a former military airfield. VIE handles over 31 million passengers per year across three terminals, with Terminal 3 being the newest, having opened in 2012 as part of a major expansion project. The airport serves as the primary hub for Austrian Airlines, a member of the Lufthansa Group and Star Alliance, and offers extensive service to Central and Eastern European destinations that are often underserved by other Western European hubs. The City Airport Train provides a direct express connection to Vienna Mitte station in 16 minutes, and the S-Bahn suburban rail offers a more economical alternative with slightly longer journey times. The airport operates two runways in a parallel configuration. Vienna Airport has positioned itself as a gateway to the region, with strong route networks to the Balkans, the Caucasus, and Central Asia, in addition to standard European and intercontinental services. The airport's location in the eastern part of Austria, close to the borders of Slovakia, Hungary, and the Czech Republic, gives it a natural catchment area that extends well beyond Austria's borders, serving Bratislava and parts of western Hungary as effectively as it serves Vienna itself.

Aviation Terms

Airfield Lighting (AGL) Airport Category Airport Elevation (ELEV) Airport Fire Station (ARFF) Airport Lounge Airport Reference Point (ARP) Apron Automated Passport Control (APC)

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get from Vienna Airport to the city center?

The City Airport Train (CAT) reaches Wien Mitte station in 16 minutes for EUR 14.90 one-way. The S-Bahn (S7 line) takes about 25 minutes to Wien Mitte for just EUR 4.40 using a standard ÖBB ticket. ÖBB Railjet trains also stop at the airport station en route to Vienna Hauptbahnhof (main station). The airport is 18 km southeast of the city.

How many terminals does Vienna Airport have?

Vienna Airport has three terminals (Terminal 1, 1A, and 3) that are all connected within one building complex. Terminal 3 was completed in 2012 and serves as the main check-in and departure area. The airport has a single security checkpoint model that leads to a shared departure area with gates organized by Schengen and non-Schengen zones.

What makes Vienna Airport notable?

VIE is strategically located as a gateway between Western and Eastern Europe, historically serving as a primary connection point for travel to Central and Eastern European cities. The airport has a strong focus on passenger comfort, with a dedicated visitor terrace for plane spotting and a comprehensive art exhibition program throughout the terminals.

Is there free Wi-Fi at Vienna Airport?

Yes, VIE provides free unlimited Wi-Fi throughout the terminal complex. The network offers fast connections suitable for streaming and video calls. The airport also features quiet zones, a prayer room, and children's play areas in the gate areas.

Which airlines have a hub at Vienna Airport?

Austrian Airlines, a Lufthansa Group subsidiary and Star Alliance member, uses VIE as its home hub. The Lufthansa Group operates a combined hub strategy with connections through Vienna to Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Wizz Air and Eurowings also have significant operations, providing low-cost options across Europe.