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Linz Airport

About the Airport

Linz Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

Linz Airport, also known by the poetic name "Blue Danube Airport", is not just a transport hub, but a cosy aerial gateway into the heart of Upper Austria. Unlike noisy giants, this airport captivates with its tranquillity, Alpine efficiency, and absence of endless queues, allowing you to start your journey on a pleasant note. Located just a few minutes' drive from the region's cultural capital, it is ideal for those who value their time and wish to be in the centre of events immediately after landing.

IATA Code LNZ
ICAO Code LOWL
City Linz
Distance to Centre 12-14 km
Status International
Annual Passengers over 230,000 (2023 data)
Schedule Information available on the online board

Despite its compact dimensions, Linz Airport possesses a range of unique features and advantages that make it convenient for travellers:

  • "Pocket" Format: The airport's main advantage is short distances. The path from the car park to the check-in counter and further to the boarding gate takes mere minutes, which practically eliminates the risk of missing a flight due to navigating the terminal.
  • Visitor Terrace: During the summer season (usually from May to September), a spacious observation terrace is open on the terminal roof. It is an excellent place to comfortably watch aircraft take-offs and landings against the backdrop of picturesque Austrian landscapes.
  • Logistics and Transport: The airport offers a well-thought-out transfer scheme. A free shuttle quickly delivers passengers to the Hörsching railway station, from where one can easily reach not only the centre of Linz but also other cities in Austria.
  • Cargo Hub: An interesting fact — Linz is the second-largest cargo airport in Austria. Although this relates more to logistics, such significance ensures the airport has excellent technical equipment and all-weather runway readiness.

Contact Information

You can contact representatives of Linz Airport (LNZ) in several ways. Below you will find the main contact information to help you plan your trip and resolve potential questions.

  • Official Website: You will always find the most complete and up-to-date information on the airport's official website — www.linz-airport.com.
  • Information Service Phone: For general enquiries, you can call: +43 7221 6000.
  • Airport Address: Flughafenstraße 1, 4063 Hörsching, Austria.
  • Email: For written requests, you can use the address: info@linz-airport.com.
  • Social Media: The airport maintains pages on popular social networks (e.g., Facebook), where it publishes news and important updates for passengers.
  • Lost Luggage Information: In case of luggage loss during a flight, you must contact your airline's tracing service. If you have left personal items in the terminal building, contact the airport's Lost & Found office (Fundbüro) via email at fundbuero@linz-airport.com.
  • Passenger Support Service: For all questions related to your stay at the airport, you can contact the main information service phone number or staff at the information desks in the terminal.

How to Get to the Airport

Linz Airport (LNZ), also known as Blue Danube Airport, is located approximately 14 km from the city centre, and can be reached in several ways. The most economical and popular option is public transport. Bus No. 601 runs directly from the terminal to the main railway station (Linz Hauptbahnhof) in Linz. The journey takes approximately 20-25 minutes. An alternative route is to use the train. To do this, you need to take the free shuttle bus No. 625, which will take you to the nearest railway station, Hörsching, in a couple of minutes, from where S-Bahn trains depart for Linz Central Station (travel time by train is about 10 minutes).

If you value comfort or are travelling with large luggage, a taxi or pre-booked transfer will be the optimal choice. The taxi rank is located directly outside the arrivals area. A trip to the city centre will take 15-20 minutes, though it will cost significantly more than public transport. Booking a private transfer online often allows you to fix the price and avoid surprises, which is especially convenient for groups and families with children.

For those planning to explore the picturesque surroundings and other regions of Austria, car rental is the ideal solution. Several major rental companies offer their services at the airport. To guarantee the availability of a car and get a favourable price, it is better to book a vehicle in advance. If you are arriving at the airport in your own car, several parking zones are at your service: from short-term for quick passenger drop-off/pick-up to long-term car parks with more affordable rates for extended stays.

When planning your trip, it is useful to know about other nearby airports. Depending on the final point of your route, they may prove more convenient. For example, Salzburg Airport is only about 100 km away. Major international hubs, such as Vienna International Airport and Munich Airport, are located less than 200 km away. Airports in Graz and Klagenfurt are also within reach.

Terminals and Map

The airport of Linz, also known as "Blue Danube" (Blue Danube Airport Linz), represents a modern and compact aviation hub. Its structure is designed for maximum convenience and rapid completion of all pre-flight and post-flight formalities.

The airport consists of one passenger terminal, which serves all flights — both international and domestic. Thanks to this, you won't have to worry about transferring between different buildings: all zones are under one roof, making navigation extremely simple. The terminal building has two main levels.

Airport Layout and Navigation:

  • Ground Floor (Level 0): The Arrivals area (Ankunft) is located here. After disembarking from the plane, you enter the baggage claim hall. In this same zone, you will find car rental desks, customs control, and the exit to the city towards bus stops and taxis. The Check-in area is also located on the ground floor, where passengers drop off their luggage.
  • First Floor (Level 1): This is the Departures area (Abflug). After going upstairs following check-in, you will pass through security and passport control (for flights outside the Schengen zone). Here you will also find boarding gates, a small Duty Free shop, a café, and a business lounge.

Due to the small size of the terminal, the time required to go through all procedures is minimal. Check-in and security screening usually take no more than 20-30 minutes, even during periods of moderate traffic. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before international flights to avoid rushing. For navigation, simply follow the clear signs in German and English. It is practically impossible to get lost in Linz Airport, making it particularly convenient for families with children and travellers who value their time.

Airport History

The history of Linz Airport, also known as Blue Danube Airport, reflects the economic development of all of Upper Austria. Its roots go back to 1938, when it was founded as a military airfield. Post-war reconstruction and industrial growth required the creation of a modern civil air harbour, and on 11 December 1955, the airport was officially opened for civil flights.

A key stage in development was the commencement of regular international transport. In 1966, the first regular flight to Frankfurt was launched, opening new tourism and business opportunities for the region. As passenger traffic grew, the need for new infrastructure arose: in 1972, the first passenger terminal was built, and in 1976, the runway was extended.

One of the most memorable moments in the airport's history occurred on 26 May 1976, when the supersonic airliner Concorde landed here. This event became a real sensation and demonstrated the airport's technical capabilities. In the following decades, the airport continued to develop: in 1985, Austrian Airlines began flying here, and from 1998 to 2003, a large-scale reconstruction took place, during which a new modern passenger terminal was erected, significantly increasing capacity.

Today, Linz Airport plays an important role not only in passenger transport but also serves as one of the country's key cargo hubs, servicing major industrial enterprises in the region. It successfully combines rich historical heritage with modern infrastructure, continuing to remain the vital aerial gateway of Upper Austria.

Services and Amenities

Linz Airport (LNZ), also known as "Blue Danube", offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the airport is well-equipped for travellers arriving in this picturesque region of Austria. Before departure, you can visit a restaurant or café for a bite to eat, as well as visit the Duty Free shop, where a good selection of perfumery, beverages, sweets, and local souvenirs is presented.

For those who wish to work or relax in a quieter atmosphere, the airport features a VIP lounge. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected. If you need to charge your devices, you will find specially equipped charging stations. For business travellers, conference rooms are available for rent to hold meetings and negotiations.

ATMs and currency exchange points are located in the airport building, which is convenient for handling financial matters upon arrival. For passengers with small children, mother and child rooms are equipped where you can take care of your baby in a calm environment. The airport also provides a full range of services for passengers with reduced mobility, including special assistance during boarding and disembarking. If necessary, you can contact the first aid station.

Although there are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, several hotels are located in the immediate vicinity, which can be quickly reached by taxi or shuttle. This is an excellent option for those with an early departure or late arrival. Staff at the information desk are always ready to help with choosing a hotel and organising a transfer.

Where to Eat

Despite its compact size, Linz Airport (LNZ) offers passengers several convenient options for a snack or a full meal. The main establishments are concentrated both in the public area before security control (landside) and in the departure zone (airside), allowing both departing passengers and those seeing them off to find a suitable option.

For those wishing to have a leisurely lunch, the Restaurant & Café am Airport is located on the ground floor of the main terminal building. This is the airport's main restaurant, serving international and traditional Austrian cuisine. It is a great opportunity to try local specialities or apple strudel before flying out of Austria. The restaurant offers a comfortable atmosphere and is suitable for a hearty lunch or dinner. The price range here is average, which is typical for airport establishments.

If you have already passed security control and are looking for a quick bite before departure, several establishments are at your service in the boarding area (airside). at SPAR enjoy, you can find fresh sandwiches, salads, yoghurts, and drinks — an ideal choice for a light lunch "on the go". Nearby, the Café & Shop also operates, where you can enjoy a cup of coffee with fresh pastries while waiting to board your flight. Opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule, so it is worth checking current information on-site.

Regarding special dietary needs, vegetarian dishes are generally available on the main restaurant's menu. However, choices for vegans, as well as gluten-free or Halal options, may be limited. In such cases, it is best to consult the staff at the establishment to clarify the ingredients of dishes and possible alternatives.

Tips for Travellers

Travelling through the airport of Linz is generally calm and fuss-free, as it is not one of the giant European hubs. Nevertheless, knowing a few tips will help make your trip even more comfortable and predictable. Follow these recommendations to save time, stress, and money.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For international flights (especially outside the Schengen zone), it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2-2.5 hours before departure. For flights within Austria or Schengen countries, 1.5 hours is sufficient. To save time, always use online check-in if your airline offers this facility. This will allow you to head straight to baggage drop or, if you are travelling light, to the security control point.

Security Control and Hand Luggage. Standard EU rules apply at security control. All liquids (perfumes, gels, creams) must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag with a capacity of up to 1 litre. Be prepared to remove laptops and other large electronics from your bag. Check your airline's website in advance for current weight and size allowances for hand luggage to avoid extra charges at the airport.

Seat Selection and Savings. When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your preferences: a window seat will offer beautiful views during take-off and landing, while an aisle seat allows you to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours. To save money, bring an empty reusable water bottle with you and fill it after passing security control. You can also bring light snacks from home, as food at the airport and on board is usually more expensive.

Transfers and Customs Control. Linz Airport is not a major transfer hub, but if you have a connecting flight, check in advance whether you need to collect your luggage and check in again. When flying between Schengen countries, there is no passport control, but it is mandatory when flying outside it. Customs for arrivals from non-EU countries operate a "Green" and "Red" channel system. If you have no goods to declare, feel free to go through the green channel.

If the Flight is Delayed. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative at the airport. According to EU regulations (EC 261/2004), for long delays, passengers are entitled to food, drinks, and sometimes hotel accommodation at the carrier's expense. Be sure to keep all receipts for necessary expenses to claim compensation later.

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