Vienna (VIE) Airport Guide
from www.anyairportcarhire.com
SUMMARY
Vienna International Airport is the biggest and busiest airport in Austria. More than 18 million passengers use it on an annual basis. However, you would not necessarily know the airport was so large when arriving as everything is very efficient. The airport is the hub of Austrian Airlines. Presently, Vienna International Airport has three terminals: The main terminals are terminals 1 and 2, while a provisional terminal 1A was built to accommodate low-cost carriers such as budget airline Niki, which also has a hub at Vienna airport. All three terminals are operated by a number of companies including Vienna Airport Handling and Austrian Airlines.
HISTORY
Vienna Airport did not become the main airport of Austria until 1954. It started life as a military airport which was built in 1938 in preparation for the Second World War. After the Allied victory it was taken over by British forces in 1945 when the conflict was over. In 1959 the single runway at Vienna Airport was expanded and a terminal was built the following year. The most important moment for the airport came when it received Pope John Paul II and is it has also been welcoming point for the international teams during two Winter Olympics.
In 2004 Vienna airport began construction on a new terminal called SKYLINK in order to deal with increased passenger numbers and cater to bigger aircraft such as the Airbus A380. The new terminal will also house Austrian Airlines and its partners. The completion date for the terminal is 2015 and during that time a new runway and control tower will also be built.
DIRECTIONS
Vienna International Airport is located in Schwechat 11 miles to the south east of central Vienna. Vienna airport is easy to get to as it is situated just off the A4 Ost Autobahn motorway, which in turn is connected to other major Austrian roads. When you are driving just follow signposts for Flughafen Wien Schwechat. You can also take the B9 road.
FACILITIES
The two main terminals are under one roof and it is easy to walk between them.
Passengers should note that some of the international departure lounges can get very crowded with large queues for the few shops that there are. However, if you then pass through the security checks there is nothing on the other side. In that respect the facilities are very poor for such a large airport.
Arrivals are much better and it does not take long to collect your bags. Within no time at all you will be out in front of the airport. While waiting you will notice the airport information offices and car hire desks. Airport information can give you maps of the area and circle your desired location. All staff speak good English and are very polite and helpful.
There is a railway station (CAT) and a Metro station (S-Bahn) directly underneath the airport. Don't get them confused as they go to different destinations and the train station is slightly more expensive.
Both the arrivals and departures halls have banks, ATMs and bureau de change. As well as having disabled toilets all the lifts, telephones and Internet access are wheelchair friendly.
SHOPPING
Vienna airport used to be noticeable for having a branch of the famous London department store Harrods but unfortunately this closed in 2003. Today there are over 70 shops in Vienna airport including newsagents and pharmacies. There are also cafes and bars but you pay a lot for a very average quality, as at most airports.
DUTY FREE
You can get cosmetics, tobacco and liquor all duty free as well as a range of bags, accessories and electronic goods. There are also traditional Austrian products which make good gifts and souvenirs.
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CAR HIRE
With all leading suppliers located at the airport you wiil be spoilt for choice with
Vienna Airport car hire.