Graz Airport is at the beginning of an exciting phase in which the course is being set for future growth and sustainable development. Although the aviation market in Europe is largely saturated, Graz Airport is showing positive signs and is looking to the future with optimism.

While the global aviation industry is growing slowly and expanding dynamically, especially in Asia, Europe is struggling with stable but limited growth rates. Wolfgang Grimus, Managing Director of Graz Airport, explained the airport's current developments, challenges and visions for the future in an interview with the Kronen Zeitung.

Growth prospects and passenger numbers

Despite a global slowdown in the rate of growth in the aviation industry due to the Corona pandemic, there is reason for optimism at Graz Airport. With 733.146 passengers last year and a cargo volume of 19.379 tons, the airport shows that it has a solid basis on which to build. Grimus emphasizes that Graz Airport is still on a growth path and estimates that the one million passenger mark could possibly be reached by 2027.

This optimism is supported by the continued demand for the existing flight connections to major transfer airports such as Frankfurt, Munich, Vienna and Zurich. These connections are essential for Graz Airport as they give passengers access to global networks and thus numerous international destinations.

Desired destinations and non-stop routes

Grimus is ambitious about future developments. He names London, Paris and Barcelona as desired destinations for direct flights. These cities are not only culturally and economically important, but are also important hubs in international air traffic. The introduction of such connections would not only increase the attractiveness of Graz Airport, but would also improve the region's connections to central European cities.

The discussion about low-cost airlines is another topic that concerns Grimus. Although Ryanair used to be present at Graz Airport, a renewed collaboration is on the agenda, but not at any price. Graz Airport does not strive to position itself as a "low-cost hub", but rather pursues a profit-oriented strategy. This means that the focus is on a balanced mix of traditional and budget-friendly airlines in order to optimize both revenue and service quality.

Environmental and investment strategies

An important aspect of Graz Airport's future planning is its environmental strategy. By 2030, the airport plans to become a "green airport" with the goal of CO2-neutral operations on the ground. This includes the construction of a photovoltaic system on the roof of the parking garage and a feasibility study for a larger PV system on an open area. In addition, the electrification of the ground infrastructure is being promoted in order to reduce dependence on diesel-powered vehicles.

The airport's investments amount to around five to six million euros annually. Investments in a new baggage facility are planned for the coming year. These measures are part of a comprehensive plan to modernize and increase the efficiency of the airport, which is also intended to minimize the ecological footprint.

Impact of the political decision on the AUA connection

A controversial issue is the potential cessation of the AUA connection to Vienna after the opening of the Semmering Tunnel in 2030. Grimus maintains his opposition to this political decision. He argues that the overwhelming majority of passengers will transfer to Vienna and not switch to the train. Instead, a large proportion of passengers are expected to switch to cars or alternative flight routes, which could lead to a loss of added value for the region. AUA itself continues to support the connection, which underlines the complexity of the decision.

Graz Airport is in a phase of change and development, with a clear focus on growth, environmental awareness and service optimization. While challenges remain in a saturated market, the airport is focusing on strategic investments and sustainable initiatives to strengthen its position and meet the needs of passengers. With a comprehensive plan for the future and a clear commitment to quality and environmental responsibility, Graz Airport is expected to play an important role in regional and international air traffic.