"For freedom of travel to return to normal in the aviation industry, international standards on effective protective measures are required, which is what the European safety agency is working on. Vienna International Airport is playing an active role in the process, in close cooperation with the Federal Ministry for Climate Action, Environment, Energy, Mobility, Innovation and Technology (BMK) and the other relevant Austrian authorities. As an EASA test airport, our experiences with the current Covid-19 measures will be used to shape future European regulations," explained Julian Jäger, CEO of Flughafen Wien AG.

EASA to benefit from the extensive measures at Vienna International Airport

Europe's largest air transport hubs – including Vienna – will share important information on their experiences with the EASA, in their capacity as test airports. The EASA charter, which sets out numerous Covid-19 recommendations, was signed and implemented by Vienna International Airport. As a result, wearing a mask is mandatory in all terminal areas for passengers, employees and people collecting passengers. A minimum distance of one meter must also be observed, with floor markings, signs and announcements at the terminal providing regular reminders. Plexiglass screens have been installed at check-in, boarding and information desks, and numerous hand sanitizing stations are positioned throughout the terminals. In cases where passengers are transferred to or from the aircraft by bus, numbers per vehicle are limited in order to ensure compliance with distancing rules.

Body temperature scanning using thermal imaging cameras

One new development is that all passengers arriving at Vienna International Airport will have their temperature monitored by thermal imaging cameras in a fully-automated screening process. On their way to collect their luggage, travelers will pass the camera system which will automatically scan their temperature. If a high temperature is detected, an individual temperature check will be conducted by the duty medical officer, and further steps initiated once additional symptoms have been discussed and details of their journey have been established.

Corona testing at the airport and Covid Care Premium Services

Travelers will still be able to have a molecular-level Covid-19 PCR test at the airport, the results of which are ready in just a few hours. Visit the airport website for details.

Vienna International Airport is also offering a new personal service for travelers: its Covid Care Premium Services includes accompaniment from check-in to departure gate by a member of airport staff, no-wait security and border control checks, as well as assistance with organizing a Covid-19 PCR test. The service also includes a Covid Care Package comprising a facemask, disposable gloves, hand sanitizer and an info pack on traveling in the age of Covid-19.