On October 28, 2024, the first aircraft took off from Linz Airport on behalf of Austrian Airlines to reach Frankfurt. This restoration of the flight connection marks a significant step forward for the Upper Austrian economy and represents a connection to the largest hub of the Lufthansa Group.
The connection will be operated three times a day, which will particularly benefit business travelers who want to travel from Linz to the metropolis. The ATR 72-600 aircraft, which has space for 72 passengers, is provided by Braathens Regional Airlines. The decision to operate this route with a smaller aircraft is a strategic response to business travel that has not yet fully returned. Norbert Draskovits, Managing Director of Linz Airport, emphasizes that the high frequency of flights makes it possible to reach as many connecting flights as possible in Frankfurt, which is of great importance for the region.
Before the de Havilland Dash 8-400s operated by Austrian Airlines itself were phased out, such aircraft were in use at most of the state airports. This model formed the backbone of AUA's regional fleet and was indispensable, especially after flight operations resumed at the beginning of the Corona pandemic. ATR72-600s operated by Braathens have been on wet lease for some time. This step has been criticized internally.
Economic importance of the connection
The connection to Frankfurt is important not only for air traffic, but also for the entire economy of Upper Austria. The region is considered one of the most important industrial and export areas in Austria, where numerous companies operate globally. Access to an international hub is crucial for the competitiveness of these companies. Michael Trestl, Chief Commercial Officer of Austrian Airlines, emphasizes that the connection connects Upper Austria with the world and offers the opportunity to reach numerous European and intercontinental destinations. Linz has not been connected by air to the AUA hub in Vienna for several years. The same applies to Salzburg.
Positive development for the region
The return of the Linz-Frankfurt connection was made possible by constructive discussions between Austrian Airlines, Lufthansa and those responsible at Linz Airport. Markus Achleitner, State Minister for Economic Affairs, is pleased with the rapid implementation and highlights the importance of this connection for the business world in Upper Austria. This underlines how important air traffic is for the regional economy and how it can contribute to opening up new markets.
In summary, the reopening of the connection between Linz and Frankfurt not only benefits travellers, but also makes an important contribution to strengthening Upper Austria's economy. The frequency and flexibility of the flights will continue to increase the region's importance in the international business world. However, there is also a downside, because on the one hand Linz Airport can celebrate the comeback of Frankfurt flights, but mustthe loss of the Düsseldorf route, which was last operated by Skyalps. Recently, however, it was only served twice a week with de Havilland Dash 8-400.
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