Airport St Gallen Altenrhein (LSZR)

LSZR (St. Gallen-Altenrhein) is a Swiss airport with customs on site; no advance notice is required for customs clearance, but operations pause daily from 12:00 to 13:30 local time. Both VFR and IFR are supported, with a single ILS DME approach to runway 10 and circling permitted north of the field for runway 28. Occasional slots may be assigned, causing minimal delays. The airport is known for its friendly, professional staff and efficient ATC service.

Fees are considered high by Swiss standards, with landing fees typically ranging from about CHF 60 to CHF 120 depending on MTOW and services, plus separate approach (CHF 17), emission (CHF 1–2), and noise surcharges (CHF 12–40). Example: landing, approach, emission, and noise fees together about CHF 120. Parking on grass is sometimes free for short stays; paved parking or longer durations may incur additional charges. Example: one day parking included in a total fee of CHF 75. Training flights receive discounted rates; go-arounds are fully charged.

Facilities include a small terminal with café/restaurant (basic menu, not cheap), fuel pumps with efficient service, rental cars available on site (not all rental agreements allow cross-border travel to Austria), and a GA lounge with drinks and snacks (ask for key code). The Flieger- und Fahrzeugmuseum Altenrhein is within walking distance. The Bodensee lakeshore can be reached in 5–10 minutes on foot or by scooter; St. Gallen city is accessible by taxi (15–20 minutes) or bus/train via nearby stations.

Ground transport links are limited; there is no direct train station at the airport but bus stops are nearby. Taxis can be arranged by the office for transfers to train stations or local destinations. Crew cars may be available upon prior request.

The airport features a long paved runway and large apron area. Approaches over Lake Constance offer scenic views but may lack clear terrain references; see AIP/NOTAM for circuit details. Strong crosswinds from the Rhine valley can occur during Föhn conditions.

LSZR offers convenient customs entry into Switzerland without prior notice, efficient handling for both VFR and IFR GA flights, and good facilities, though at relatively high cost compared to some alternatives in the region.