*Last updated on: December 8, 2020
COVID-19 Safety Measures at Vienna Airport
Since the COVID-19 crisis erupted in early 2020, airports across the world have had to adapt, leading to some huge changes for travelers. Vienna Airport is no exception, taking action to protect passengers and workers. So before you touch down, here's a quick run down of COVID-19 safety measures at Vienna Airport to help arrivals prepare.
What airport measures are currently in place for travelers?
Vienna Airport has acted quickly to institute anti-Covid measures, including basics like increased cleaning, the availability of hand sanitizer, the introduction of PCR tests, and mandatory face mask wearing. All operations have also been restricted to Terminal 3, allowing staff to stay in control. As a result, the airport experts at SkyTrax have awarded the airport a 4-star Covid rating - one below the elite tier. So the team in charge are performing relatively well, ensuring a safe experience for virtually everyone who visits.
Do immigration or security checkpoints at Vienna Airport have new procedures?
All passengers must pass through passport control and customs as normal at Vienna Airport, and access to Austria should be hassle free for residents of most major nations (including Canada, the UK and Ireland). However, those coming from some regions within "safe" nations may need to present evidence of a negative Covid test upon arrival. The areas change all the time, and a list can be found here. Tests need to be carried out less than 72 hours before flying, so be sure to schedule an appointment at the right time.
Are there any screening or test facilities at Vienna Airport?
Yes. Vienna Airport has created a COVID-19 testing center on-site, which administers PCR tests for arrivals. These tests are designed to tell whether passengers are currently infected with the virus, and results take just a few hours. Tests are available from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm between Monday and Sunday, and they come with a 120 euro fee. To find out more and book a test, head to the testing center's website.
What are the social distancing and face covering policies at Vienna Airport?
As with almost all international airports, Vienna has created a system of floor markings to allow travelers to remain safely distanced from other people. Protective screens have been added to check-in, security and passport desks, and temperature checks are routinely carried out for all arrivals. Face masks are mandatory throughout the airport site.
Is there a clinic at Vienna Airport?
Yes, Vienna Airport is equipped with a Medical center, which can be found on the Arcade Walkway in Terminal 1.
How often is Vienna Airport cleaned?
Thorough cleaning is a feature of the safest airports, and Vienna does well here. All seats and handrails are being cleaned intensively, while filtration systems in ventilation ducts are also undergoing more frequent replacements. Moreover, hand sanitizer has been made available for all travelers free of charge, and stations can be found throughout the airport site.
Are shops, restaurants and other businesses open as usual?
The Local Supply shopping arcade at Vienna Airport has remained open during the COVID-19 crisis, and passengers can still visit a wide range of shops and eateries. This includes duty free stores, boutiques, book shops and pharmacies, as well as delis and cafes, with sit down and takeaway options all available. However, be aware that opening hours may change, so stores may be harder to access after 8:00 pm.
Does Vienna Airport have any special guidelines or other information that travelers should be aware of?
Travelers can still travel to and from Vienna Airport via Vienna Airport Lines buses, but the City Airport Train has been indefinitely suspended. So taxis may be a good option for rapid transit into central Vienna. Numbers have been restricted on buses inside the airport site and leaving for the city center, so queues may develop at departure points. Otherwise, the airport is open for business and functioning as normal, with car parks, banking and money exchange facilities, and plenty of customer lounges for travelers to use.
Are there any links to the government website for travelers?
[Austria's government provides a wide range of resources for travelers](https://www.sozialministerium.at/Informationen-zum-Coronavirus/Neuartiges-Coronavirus-(2019-nCov) to consult, including German language explainer and English content is also available, with plenty of Covid-related material. So stay informed and prepare for your next flight at BudgetAir.com.