Austrian Airlines: Taking Off Or Grounded?

Austrian Airlines, or Austrian, is the flag carrier of Austria and a subsidiary of Lufthansa, the flag carrier of Germany. The airline is headquartered at Vienna International Airport, which is also its hub. As of 2025, the airline flies to six domestic destinations and more than 80 international destinations in about 50 countries across Europe, Asia, North Africa, and North America.

Austrian Airlines has had a turbulent history, with several changes in ownership and financial difficulties. The airline has also faced competition from low-cost carriers and has had to streamline its operations to avoid financial losses. However, it remains Austria's largest airline and is committed to halving its net CO2 emissions by 2030 and flying CO2-neutral by 2050.

Austrian Airlines' history and ownership

Austrian Airlines, also known as Austrian Airlines AG or AUA, is the flag carrier of Austria. It is headquartered at Vienna International Airport in Schwechat, where it also maintains its hub. The airline was formed in 1957 through the merger of Air Austria and Austrian Airways, though its history dates back to the founding of Austrian Airways in 1923.

Throughout much of its existence, Austrian Airlines was a state-owned entity. On 31 March 1958, the airline performed its first scheduled service, flying a leased Vickers Viscount from Vienna to Zurich and London. It subsequently purchased its own Viscount fleet. In 1963, Austrian Airlines ordered its first jet-powered airliner, the Sud Aviation Caravelle, and by the end of 1971, the airline was an all-jet operator.

During the 1980s and 1990s, Austrian Airlines introduced various airliners produced by Airbus, Boeing, Fokker, and other manufacturers to its fleet. The airline also sought out new strategic alliances and expanded its presence in the long-haul market, launching new services to China and South Africa. In 2000, Austrian Airlines became a member of Star Alliance.

In the 2000s, the airline expanded through acquisitions and adopted the shortened name, Austrian. However, the airline also sustained several years of losses during this period. In 2009, the Lufthansa Group purchased Austrian Airlines, making it a subsidiary of the German flag carrier. Following its privatisation, the airline restructured its operations, including fleet expansion and cost-saving initiatives.

In recent years, Austrian Airlines has continued to make changes to its fleet and route network. It has also received financial aid to help it weather the COVID-19 pandemic and has committed to reducing its CO2 emissions by 50% by 2030.

As of 2025, Austrian Airlines is wholly owned by Österreichisches Luftverkehrs Holding (ÖLH). The Austrian Airlines Group is the leading airline in Austria, with a global route network of more than 120 destinations.

Destinations and routes

Austrian Airlines, or Austrian, is Austria's largest airline and flag carrier. It is headquartered at Vienna International Airport, with focus cities including Graz Airport, Innsbruck Airport, and Salzburg Airport. The airline operates a worldwide network, with a special focus on Central and Eastern Europe. It is part of the Lufthansa Group, Europe's largest airline network, and a member of the Star Alliance.

Austrian Airlines flies to six destinations within Austria and more than 80 destinations in about 50 countries across Europe, Asia, North Africa, and North America. In total, the airline serves more than 120 destinations in 55 countries.

Some of the destinations served by Austrian Airlines include:

• Germany: Berlin, Frankfurt, and Munich
• Austria: Vienna, Graz, Innsbruck, Salzburg, and Klagenfurt
• Switzerland: Zurich
• United Kingdom: London
• United States: Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, Newark, New York, and Washington
• Canada: Toronto
• France: Paris
• Italy: Rome, Venice, Florence, and Milan
• Greece: Athens
• Albania: Tirana
• North Macedonia: Skopje
• Bosnia and Herzegovina: Sarajevo
• Hungary: Budapest
• Croatia: Dubrovnik, Split, and Zagreb
• Czech Republic: Prague
• Netherlands: Amsterdam
• Spain: Barcelona and Madrid
• Egypt: Cairo
• Armenia: Yerevan
• Thailand: Bangkok
• Israel: Tel Aviv
• Jordan: Amman
• Iraq: Erbil
• China: Beijing and Shanghai
• Japan: Tokyo
• Maldives: Malé
• Morocco: Marrakech
• Singapore
• Brazil: São Paulo
• Lebanon: Beirut
• Colombia: Bogotá
• India: New Delhi
• Vietnam: Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City
• Cambodia: Phnom Penh
• Costa Rica: San José
• United Arab Emirates: Dubai

In addition to these destinations, Austrian Airlines also offers an innovative train-flight cooperation (AIRail) from Linz, Salzburg, and Graz to Vienna.

Fleet and aircraft types

Austrian Airlines has a varied fleet of aircraft, including wide-body jets, narrow-body jets, and regional jets. As of January 2025, the airline operates the following aircraft types:

Boeing 787-9

The Boeing 787-9 is a recent addition to the Austrian Airlines fleet, with the first jets joining the fleet in early 2024. These aircraft are used for long-haul flights and offer a modern and comfortable flying experience. By 2028, Austrian Airlines plans to have a total of 11 Boeing 787-9 aircraft in its fleet.

Boeing 777-200ER

The Boeing 777-200ER is the largest passenger aircraft in the Austrian Airlines fleet and is known for its fuel efficiency. With a spacious cabin and exclusive fittings, it makes long-haul flights a relaxing experience. This aircraft has been a part of the fleet since the early 2010s.

Boeing 767-300ER

The Boeing 767-300ER is slightly smaller than the 777 but is also primarily used for long-haul flights. It is a low-wing aircraft and the first long-haul aircraft from Boeing with just two engines. Austrian Airlines has been operating the 767 since the early 2010s.

Airbus A321-211 and A321-111

The Airbus A321 is the longest aircraft in the A320 family and can accommodate up to 200 passengers. The A321-211 and A321-111 variants are used by Austrian Airlines for short- and medium-haul flights. The A321-111, in particular, offers a maximum speed of 840 km/h.

Airbus A320neo and A320-200

The Airbus A320neo is a modern addition to the fleet, offering up to 20% fuel efficiency compared to previous generations. It also has a significantly reduced noise footprint during take-off. The A320-200, on the other hand, has been a workhorse for Austrian Airlines, with an average age of 17.7 years.

Embraer 195

The Embraer 195 is a regional jet with a spacious cabin, generous aisle height, and wide seats. Up to 120 passengers can travel in exceptional comfort on this aircraft, which is primarily used for short- and medium-haul flights.

In-flight services and experiences

Austrian Airlines offers a range of in-flight services and experiences to enhance your journey.

In-Flight Entertainment:

Austrian Airlines provides in-flight entertainment options, including WiFi, TV, and movies. Stay connected, catch up on your favourite shows, or enjoy a movie during your flight.

Dining:

Austrian Airlines offers a variety of delicious dishes on their flights. You can explore the menu options before your trip and even earn Miles & More miles with their partner programme.

Special Requests:

The airline accommodates special meal requests, ensuring that passengers with specific dietary needs or preferences are catered to.

Comfort and Convenience:

• Austrian Airlines operates a range of aircraft configurations, including wide-body jets with Business and Economy Class cabins, as well as all-Economy Class narrow-body jets.
• They also offer services for travelling with animals, sports and special baggage requirements, and assistance for unaccompanied minors.

Lounge Access:

At their hub in Vienna International Airport, Austrian Airlines operates several lounges, including Business, Senator, and HON-Circle lounges, providing comfortable waiting areas for passengers.

Holiday Charters:

Austrian Airlines offers holiday charter flights under the brand myAustrian Holidays. These flights operate to various seasonal destinations, providing a convenient way to plan your dream vacation.

Environmental initiatives

Austrian Airlines is committed to an integrated environmental strategy that focuses on reducing CO2 emissions and conserving resources. The airline has set ambitious targets for itself, aiming for a neutral carbon footprint by 2050. To achieve this, Austrian Airlines is working towards halving its net CO2 emissions by 2030 compared to 2019 levels through reduction and compensation measures.

Fleet Modernisation and Operation Efficiency

Austrian Airlines is investing in modern, more fuel-efficient aircraft and engine technologies. The latest generation of aircraft can consume up to 30% less fuel and emit up to 20% less CO2 than their predecessors. Additionally, they produce around 50% less noise during take-off. The airline is also committed to optimising flight operations through ongoing training and digital decision support, ensuring the most fuel-efficient operations possible.

Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF)

Austrian Airlines recognises the importance of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) in transitioning to more sustainable operations. SAFs are produced without the use of fossil fuels, primarily from biogenic waste like used cooking oil or fats. SAFs reduce CO2 emissions by up to 80% compared to fossil fuels, and Austrian Airlines has been refuelling with regionally produced SAFs at Vienna Airport since 2022.

Climate Protection Projects

In partnership with Climate Austria, Austrian Airlines offers passengers the option of voluntary CO2 offsetting. Contributions from this initiative support high-quality, certified climate protection projects worldwide, including peatland restoration in Germany and the use of energy-saving cookers in African countries.

Energy and Resource Management

Austrian Airlines prioritises the efficient use of energy and resources across all business areas. This includes initiatives to reduce waste, such as optimising food production and packaging, as well as exploring energy-saving and resource-conserving practices in building planning, renovation, and construction.

Noise Reduction

Austrian Airlines' ongoing fleet renewal programme, which replaces older aircraft with more efficient and quieter models, significantly contributes to noise reduction. The installation of vortex generators on Airbus 320 and 321 aircraft, for example, reduces noise on approach. The airline also works with neighbouring communities and Vienna Airport to implement passive noise abatement measures and optimise approach routes to minimise noise pollution.

Frequently asked questions