Salzburg Airport (LOWS)

Salzburg (LOWS) is a fully equipped international airport with both IFR and VFR procedures, requiring a flight plan for entry and exit due to its controlled airspace. PPR is not generally required for non-commercial GA under 3 tonnes, but apron parking at Hangar 7 or Apron East may require prior arrangement. All GA arrivals are subject to mandatory apron handling, which includes shuttle transport and security; walking on the apron is not permitted. The handling fee for aircraft up to 3 tonnes is about €100, with total charges for landing, handling, parking, and associated fees typically ranging from about €150 to €250 for a short stay with a single passenger. Example: all-inclusive fee about €190–€250 for landing, handling, parking, and security for a typical single-engine aircraft under 2 tonnes MTOW. Fees have increased substantially since 2024 due to the introduction of mandatory apron service charges.

Fuel is available on the apron but incurs a substantial call-out fee (about €130) if less than 1000 liters are taken; payment for fuel may require a BP card or fuel release. Avgas and Jet-A1 are available but are among the most expensive in the region. Maintenance services are present but oil may only be available from maintenance shops when open.

The dedicated GA terminal (GAC/Herbert von Karajan Terminal) offers modern facilities including lounge, briefing rooms, internet access, and restrooms. Transport from aircraft to terminal is by shuttle or Follow Me car; walking is not allowed. The Red Bull Hangar-7 aviation museum is located on the field and can be reached in 10–15 minutes on foot or by car; entry is free. Tiedowns are provided but tie-down rings may be limited; chocks are standard.

Ground transport into Salzburg city is convenient: city buses depart from stops directly outside the GAT every 15 minutes, taking about 10–20 minutes to reach the center at a cost of around €2–€3. Taxis cost about €10–€15 and take a similar time. Car rental desks are located in the main terminal within a short walk from GAC.

ATC service is consistently described as professional and friendly, though traffic can be heavy during peak periods or winter weekends with possible delays for IFR movements. VFR arrivals should study approach plates carefully due to significant terrain in all quadrants; circuit entry points such as Whiskey require attention. IFR arrivals typically use runway 15 with departures from 33.

Customs and immigration are available without prior notice during operating hours; passport checks occur at the GAC.

While facilities and service quality remain high, current fee levels make Salzburg one of the most expensive airports in the region for non-commercial GA under 3 tonnes MTOW.