Graz Airport: An Austrian Gateway To The Skies

Graz Airport (GRZ) is an international airport located near Graz, Austria's second-largest city. Construction of the airport began in 1913, and it has since become one of the most modern regional airports in Central Europe. The airport offers both domestic and international flights, serving as a gateway to various destinations worldwide. It is a significant hub for Styria's economy and internationally active companies based in southern Austria. With its convenient services and short distances, Graz Airport provides an easy and comfortable travel experience for its passengers.

Graz Airport's history

Graz Airport, known as Flughafen Graz in German, is an international airport serving southern Austria. It is located near Graz, Austria's second-largest city, in the municipalities of Feldkirchen and Kalsdorf, 9.3 km (5.8 miles) south of Graz city centre.

Graz Airport is the oldest civil airport in Austria, with a history spanning more than 100 years. Construction of the airport began in 1913 with the building of a grass runway and the first hangars. The airport saw its first flight in 1914, becoming the first airfield in Austria. During World War I, an internment camp was established on the airport grounds for civilians suspected of "Russophilia".

After the war, in 1925, the airport became part of Austria's first domestic flight network, with a route from Vienna to Graz to Klagenfurt. In 1930, Yugoslav flag carrier Aeroput began regular flights connecting Belgrade, Zagreb, Graz, and Vienna. To accommodate the growing number of passengers, construction of a terminal building commenced in 1937.

Following World War II, Austria was prohibited from possessing a military or civilian aviation fleet. However, when Austrian airspace reopened in 1951, a new concrete runway with a length of 1,500 metres (4,921 ft) was built at Graz Airport. The runway was extended to 2,000 metres (6,562 ft) in 1962, and the airport was incorporated into the domestic flight network of AUA.

Graz Airport joined the international flight network in 1966, offering flights to Frankfurt. The runway was extended again in 1969, this time to 2,500 metres (8,202 ft), and a new terminal building was constructed. The airport continued to grow and develop, with visits from Concorde in 1981 and a Boeing 747 in 1984 to mark its 70th anniversary.

In the early 21st century, Graz Airport consistently handled over 750,000 passengers annually, leading to the expansion of the terminal building and the addition of a second terminal in 2005. The airport has continued to expand its routes and facilities, recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic and solidifying its position as a significant gateway to southern Austria.

Transport to and from the airport

Graz Airport is located 10 kilometres (6.2 miles) from Graz city centre, and there are several ways to travel to and from the airport.

The airport is easily accessible by car via motorways A9 (exit Kalsdorf) and A2 (exit Flughafen Graz/Feldkirchen). The distance from the airport to the city centre can be covered by car in around 20 minutes. Taxis are available outside the arrival hall.

Graz Airport can also be reached by train. The train station, Graz-Feldkirchen Airport Railway Station (Flughafen Graz-Feldkirchen Bahnhof), is located 300 metres from the terminal. The S5 train connects the airport to Graz, with the journey from the airport station to Graz Central Station taking 11 minutes.

The bus stop for regional bus line 630 is located next to the arrival area. The bus takes passengers to Puntigam, where they can change to tram line 5 to the city centre. The bus journey to the city centre takes 20 minutes, and a single ticket costs €3.00.

Amenities and services at the airport

Graz Airport, located near Graz, Austria's second-largest city, offers a range of amenities and services for travellers. The airport is characterised by its short distances, familiar faces, and convenient services, making it a comfortable gateway to the world.

Dining Options:

Graz Airport has several dining options within its terminal building. Restaurant Globetrotter and Kitchen by Fräulein Fröhlich are two popular choices, offering culinary delights and views of planes landing and taking off. The airport also has a BBQ during the summer months and a terrace for outdoor dining. Vending machines are available for quick snacks, and there are restaurants, cafes, and bars serving both local and international cuisine.

Shopping:

The airport provides a variety of shopping options, including a Spar supermarket, which is open seven days a week, even on Sundays and public holidays. Duty-free shopping is also available, along with travel agencies and shops selling travel essentials like luggage straps, first aid kits, and neck cushions.

Rest & Relaxation:

While Graz Airport doesn't have dedicated sleeping areas, it offers armrest-free benches in the terminal for those spending the night. There are also nearby hotels, such as Amedia Airport Graz and Gastehaus Feldkirchen, for uninterrupted sleep. The airport features an observation deck where visitors can watch planes taking off and landing. Additionally, an art gallery, Galerie am Flughafen, hosts exhibitions and cultural events.

Other Services:

Graz Airport provides luggage storage, baggage carts, baby care facilities, children's play areas, ATMs, currency exchange, and an information desk. Free unlimited WiFi is available, along with internet terminals in the Departures Hall and the VIP Lounge. The airport also has a smoking lounge and designated smoking areas.

Transportation:

The airport offers convenient connections to Graz's main station and Jakominiplatz, with bus and train services available. Car rental services are located on the ground floor of the parking deck, and taxi services can be found outside the arrivals area.

International and domestic flights

Graz Airport (GRZ) is an international airport serving the area of Region Graz and Styria, Austria. It is located 5 miles from the Graz city centre.

International Flights

There are flights from Graz to major European hubs, including Frankfurt, Istanbul, and Amsterdam, which allow passengers to connect to other flights going to destinations around the world.

The following airlines operate international flights from Graz:

• Eurowings
• Air Dolomiti
• Corendon
• Lufthansa
• Austrian
• SunExpress
• Swiss
• SmartWings

Domestic Flights

There is currently only one domestic flight from Graz, which is between Graz and Vienna. Direct flights to Vienna are offered by Austrian Airlines.

The airport's economic importance

Graz Airport, the oldest Austrian commercial airport, is an important economic hub for the city of Graz, the region of Styria, and southern Austria. The airport is a significant factor in the region's economy and is crucial for many internationally active companies with offices or branches in southern Austria.

Graz Airport's role as a gateway to the world is vital for businesses in Styria, particularly those in the Graz municipal region, which are highly export-oriented. The airport offers around 20 daily air cargo connections, providing ideal links to the global cargo network. This efficient cargo network, along with perfect motorway links, enables transport to and from most European airports within 24 hours.

The airport's contribution to the regional economy is further emphasised by its ability to attract new tenants in various sectors, such as the cargo area, the multi-storey car park, and the office building. Additionally, the airport's focus on sustainability, with initiatives like the installation of an in-house PV system, aligns with modern environmental priorities. This commitment to sustainability is expected to enhance Graz Airport's reputation and attract environmentally conscious businesses and passengers.

Graz Airport's strategic location and efficient infrastructure have contributed to its growth and economic significance. With continuous improvements, such as terminal expansions and new routes, the airport has recovered from the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The addition of new routes and the establishment of an additional Eurowings base further strengthen Graz Airport's position as a vital economic hub for the region.

Frequently asked questions