Salzburg Airport, officially named WA Mozart Airport, serves as Austria’s second-largest aviation hub, offering a welcoming entry point to the city of Salzburg and its surrounding ski regions. Located just 3.1 kilometres from the city centre and 2 kilometres from the German border, this airport handles over 1.9 million passengers annually, with airlines like Ryanair, Eurowings, and Lufthansa connecting to destinations across Europe. Its compact size and efficient operations make it a practical choice for travellers seeking a smooth journey.
Accessing the airport is remarkably easy, thanks to its proximity to Salzburg and excellent transport links. Trolleybus lines 2 and 10 run every 10 minutes on weekdays and every 20 minutes on weekends, connecting the airport to the city centre’s Ferdinand-Hanusch-Platz in about 15 minutes for €2.50. Passengers heading to Salzburg Hauptbahnhof can take bus line 2, with the first service departing at 05:22 on weekdays, taking around 20 minutes.
Taxis offer a quick 10-minute ride to the city centre for approximately €15, while private transfers or car rentals, available at the parking garage, provide additional flexibility. The airport’s direct motorway connection to the A1, A8, and A10 ensures drivers reach the terminal in minutes, with short-term and long-term parking options starting at €40 per week. Note that the bus stop for line 2 is a 700-metre walk from the terminal via a well-lit tunnel, which is safe but may be inconvenient with heavy luggage, especially for late arrivals.
The airport’s layout is refreshingly simple, with two terminals: Terminal 1, the main hub for year-round flights, and Terminal 2, used primarily for seasonal winter charters. Terminal 1 houses 26 check-in desks, 10 boarding gates for Schengen and non-Schengen flights, and a visitor’s terrace with views of the runway and nearby fortress. Terminal 2, smaller with nine check-in counters, caters to ski traffic and has limited amenities. The absence of air bridges means passengers board via bus or a short walk across the tarmac, which is manageable but worth noting in winter.
Security checks are typically swift, taking 5-10 minutes, though queues can form during peak ski season, so arriving two hours early is advisable. The terminal’s compact design and clear signage ensure easy navigation for all travellers.
Delays are uncommon due to the airport’s smaller size, but winter weather, particularly snow or ice from December to March, can disrupt flights. Peak ski season also brings higher passenger volumes, leading to potential congestion at check-in, security, or passport control, especially for non-Schengen flights. On-time performance is generally reliable, particularly for Eurowings and Lufthansa routes, but checking flight status before heading to the airport is recommended. Overcrowding in the departure lounge during busy periods has been noted, so early arrival helps secure seating.
Dining options are modest but cater to most needs. In Terminal 1, Markt Restaurant offers self-service meals, while Marktplatz Café provides coffee, sandwiches, and pastries. SalzBurger in Terminal 2 serves burgers, pizza, and drinks, and a bakery before security offers fresh baked goods. Most eateries operate from early morning until 9:00 PM, with no 24-hour options. Retail includes a Heinemann Duty-Free shop for perfumes, alcohol, and souvenirs, plus a kiosk for newspapers, snacks, and sweets. A unique Ferdinand Porsche showroom in Terminal 1 adds a touch of local flair. While not extensive, these options suffice for a short stay.
Facilities enhance the passenger experience, with free Wi-Fi via the “Freewave” network available throughout. Baby-changing facilities are located in both terminals, and a children’s play area in Terminal 1’s Markt Restaurant keeps young travellers entertained. Barrier-free toilets, lifts, and disabled parking spaces ensure accessibility, with assistance bookable 48 hours in advance through airlines. The Business Lounge in Terminal 1, open from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM, offers food, drinks, and showers for €30 or via lounge memberships like Priority Pass. Baggage storage and wrapping services are available, with rates at €8-15 per item. A medical centre and lost property office in the arrivals area provide additional support. Nearby hotels, like the Airport Hotel Salzburg just 100 yards from Terminal 2, offer convenient stays for early or late flights. The airport operates from 5:00 AM until the last flight, so overnight stays are not possible.
Connections are straightforward, with minimum connection times of 30 minutes for both domestic and international flights, thanks to the airport’s compact layout. Clear signage guides passengers to transfer desks, though non-Schengen connections may involve passport control, so allowing extra time is wise. The airport primarily serves point-to-point flights, with most connections routed through hubs like Frankfurt or Vienna.Salzburg Airport’s proximity, efficient layout, and practical amenities make it a convenient gateway to Austria’s ski regions.
