Klagenfurt Airport

Klagenfurt Airport, often referred to as "Carinthia Airport," is a true boutique gateway to Austria's sunniest and most lake-rich region. Landing here feels more like the beginning of an exciting excursion than a standard arrival procedure: instead of endless corridors and the bustle of giant hubs, you are greeted by a cosy atmosphere and breathtaking views of the majestic Alps. The location of the air harbour is unique — planes approach over the turquoise waters of Lake Wörthersee, creating a holiday mood before you even leave the terminal. It is the perfect starting point for those who value their time and wish to be on a ski slope or a lakeside promenade just half an hour after landing.

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

The main advantage of Klagenfurt Airport is its phenomenal compactness. Thanks to the small size of the terminal, the journey from the aircraft steps to the city exit, including baggage claim, takes mere minutes, which is practically impossible in major aviation hubs. The absence of long queues at check-in and security allows travellers to feel as relaxed as possible.

One cannot overlook the strategic location. The airport is located practically within the city limits, making transfers quick and affordable. Furthermore, it serves as a convenient hub for accessing Carinthia's best ski resorts in winter and warm lakes in summer, attracting tourists who do not wish to spend hours travelling from Vienna or Salzburg.

The aesthetic component also plays a role: the scenic landing approach is considered one of the most beautiful in Central Europe. Passengers can enjoy panoramic views of the Karawanks mountain range and the shimmering surface of the lakes, making every arrival here a special event.

Below you will find the main contact information for Klagenfurt Airport (KLU), which will help you plan your trip and resolve any questions that may arise.

• Official Website: klagenfurt-airport.at
• Information Desk Phone: +43 (0) 463 41500-0
• Address: Flughafenstraße 60-64, 9020 Klagenfurt am Wörthersee, Austria
• Email: info@klagenfurt-airport.at
• Social Media: The airport is present on platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, where current news and useful information are published.
• Lost & Found: For questions regarding lost or damaged luggage, please contact the tracing service by phone at +43 463 41500-247 or via email at lostandfound@klagenfurt-airport.at.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance and answers to general questions, you may use the airport's main telephone number or email address.

Reaching Klagenfurt Airport (KLU), located just 4 km from the city centre of Klagenfurt, is possible via several convenient methods. Thanks to its proximity to the city, the journey will not take much time, regardless of the option you choose.

Public Transport is the most economical method. City buses run regularly from the central bus station (Heiligengeistplatz) and the main railway station (Hauptbahnhof). The bus ride to the "Flughafen" (Airport) stop takes approximately 15-20 minutes. This is an excellent choice for those travelling light. Also near the airport (about a 15-minute walk) is the Klagenfurt-Annabichl railway station, served by S-Bahn trains (S1), though this option is less convenient if you have heavy luggage.

Taxis and Transfers offer the fastest and most comfortable way to reach the terminal. A taxi ride from the centre of Klagenfurt will take just 10-15 minutes depending on traffic. The cost of the trip is usually around 15-25 Euros. You can find taxis at ranks in the city or order a car via an app. For greater convenience, especially if you are travelling in a group or with a large amount of luggage, you can book a private transfer in advance.

Car Rental is an ideal option for those planning to actively explore the picturesque Carinthia region and its lakes. Offices of major international rental companies are located within the airport building. By car, the route from the city centre to the airport is very simple and well-signposted. Travel time is about 10 minutes.

For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, convenient parking is provided. Next to the terminal, there are both short-term parking spaces (for dropping off and picking up passengers) and zones for long-term parking. This allows you to leave the car for the duration of your journey from Austria.

The Klagenfurt Airport (KLU) is distinguished by its compactness and convenience for passengers. There is just one passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. Thanks to its small size, navigating it is very simple, making the journey calmer and more predictable, especially compared to major aviation hubs.

The terminal is a single building where all zones are within walking distance. The airport layout is intuitive: on the ground floor, you will find the Check-in counters, the arrivals area with baggage claim belts, and customs control. After completing check-in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to the security screening area and then to the boarding gates. Navigation poses no difficulties: there are clear signs in German and English everywhere.

One of the main features of the airport is the rapid completion of all pre-flight formalities. Flight check-in and security screening usually take significantly less time than in large airports. Nevertheless, the standard recommendation is to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5–2 hours before the departure of an international flight. This time will be more than sufficient to go through all procedures without rushing.

Since there is only one terminal, there is no need for transfers between buildings. All main services — from cafes and shops to car rental desks — are concentrated in one place. If you are looking for your boarding gate or the arrivals area, simply follow the signs. The simplicity and logical layout make Klagenfurt Airport an excellent example of an efficient regional airport in Austria, where passenger comfort comes first.

The history of Klagenfurt Airport (KLU) goes back to the dawn of aviation. Its foundation dates back to 1914, when it was established as a military airfield. This makes it one of the oldest airports in Austria. Initially used for army needs during the First World War, by 1925, the first civil transport operations began here, marking the starting point of its development as a transport hub.

After the Second World War, the airport, like many other infrastructure facilities, required restoration. It was reopened for civil aviation in 1951, and shortly thereafter, the first scheduled flights were launched. This period marked the transformation of the former military airfield into a full-fledged aerial gateway for the Carinthia region, playing an important role in its post-war economic revival.

A key stage in the airport's development was the construction of a new terminal. Work began in the late 1960s, and in 1972, the building—modern for its time—was ceremoniously opened. This large-scale modernization significantly increased capacity and offered passengers a higher level of comfort, which was particularly important given the growing tourist flow to the region.

In subsequent decades, Klagenfurt Airport continued to modernize. Works were carried out to extend the runway and update navigation equipment. Today, the airport, also known as Kärnten Airport, is an important regional hub connecting Carinthia with major European cities and playing a significant role in serving tourists visiting the ski and lake resorts.

Klagenfurt Airport (KLU) is a compact and modern transport hub offering passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected or work. Sockets and special stations are provided for charging gadgets.

You can have a snack or drink a cup of coffee in the cafe located in the terminal building. For shopping enthusiasts, a Duty Free shop is open, featuring a standard range of goods: perfumes, cosmetics, sweets, and souvenirs reminiscent of your trip to Austria.

For passengers who value privacy and comfort, a VIP Lounge is available, where one can relax in a quiet atmosphere while enjoying additional services. The airport also offers conference rooms for rent for business meetings, seminars, or presentations, equipped with the necessary hardware.

In the terminal, you will find ATMs for cash withdrawals. Mother and child rooms are equipped for families with small children. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with all necessary assistance and accompaniment; it is recommended to notify the airline of your needs in advance. In case of necessity, one can contact the first aid station.

Although there are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, several hotels to suit every taste and budget are located in the vicinity. They are easily accessible by taxi or public transport in just a few minutes, which is especially convenient for early departures or late arrivals.

Klagenfurt Airport (KLU), being a compact regional airport, offers several convenient dining options for passengers and visitors. The selection of establishments allows for both a full lunch before departure and a quick snack while waiting for a flight.

The main establishment at the airport is the Take Off Restaurant, located on the ground floor in the public area (landside), before security control. This makes it convenient for both departing passengers and those meeting them. International dishes and traditional cuisine of Austria are served here. It is a great place to leisurely enjoy a Viennese Schnitzel or Carinthian cheese noodles (Kärntner Kasnudeln). The restaurant is suitable for a full lunch or dinner. Opening hours are usually synchronized with the flight schedule, and prices are in the average range for airports.

For those short on time or who have already passed security control, a cafe-bar operates in the departure area (airside). This is an ideal place for a quick snack. On the menu, you will find fresh pastries, sandwiches, salads, as well as hot and cold beverages, including coffee. Here you can comfortably spend time just before boarding your flight.

Regarding special dietary needs, vegetarian dishes such as salads or pasta without meat are usually available in the main restaurant. However, choices for vegans, as well as gluten-free or Halal dishes, may be limited. It is recommended to check the availability of suitable options with the staff in advance.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Klagenfurt goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of these useful tips. Klagenfurt Airport (KLU) is small and convenient, making it less stressful compared to major international hubs, but preparation is always important.

Arrival and Check-in. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before the departure of international flights and 1.5 hours before domestic ones. This time will be sufficient to check in luggage, pass security control, and reach the boarding gate without rushing. To save time, complete online check-in on your airline's website and save the boarding pass on your mobile device.

Hand Luggage and Security. Remember the standard rules for carrying liquids: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in a single transparent bag. Electronics, such as laptops and power banks, must be removed from bags for separate scanning. Sharp objects, including pocket knives and manicure scissors, are prohibited in hand luggage.

Seat Selection and Customs. When choosing a seat on the plane, note that picturesque views of the Alps and Lake Wörthersee open up from the windows, especially during takeoff and landing. If comfort is important, choose an aisle seat. Since Austria is part of the Schengen Area, passport control for flights within the zone is usually absent. Upon arrival from non-EU countries, proceed through the "Green Channel" if you have no goods to declare, or through the "Red Channel" if you do.

Transfers and Flight Delays. Klagenfurt is not a major transit hub, so transfers here are rare. If you do have a connecting flight, check with the airline whether you need to re-check your luggage yourself. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, contact an airline representative. Passengers departing from the EU are protected by regulation EU261/2004, which provides for compensation, meals, and hotel accommodation depending on the length of the delay and flight distance.

Saving Time and Money. To save money, bring an empty water bottle and fill it at drinking fountains after passing security control. You can also bring dry snacks with you. It is better to book an airport transfer online in advance — this may be cheaper than taking a taxi on the spot. Use the free Wi-Fi in the terminal to check flight status or call a taxi via an app.