The rail connections to Vienna International Airport operated by ÖBB are a key factor for economic growth, international accessibility, and sustainable mobility in Austria. These conclusions are drawn from a study conducted in collaboration with the consulting firm Arthur D. Little.
The study highlights the scale of this success story: in 2025, approximately 10.5 million passengers used ÖBB trains to reach Vienna Airport, representing an increase of about 70% compared to 2014. Currently, 40% of all airport passengers choose rail transport.
At the same time, these connections generate approximately 15.8 million EUR in added value for the national economy annually, contribute to job creation, and reduce CO₂ emissions by approximately 29,000 tons per year.
“The figures speak for themselves: 70% more people are using trains to get to the airport compared to 2014, and ÖBB’s current market share is 40%. Efficient mobility occurs when different modes of transport are planned together. The connection between rail and air transport improves international accessibility, generates economic value, and contributes to long-term sustainability,” said Federal Minister Peter Hanke.
Railjet, Essential for Rail Connections to the Airport
The study included all connecting services offered by ÖBB, from long-distance trains and the S-Bahn to the City Airport Train and the Vienna Airport Bus lines.
Railjet provides direct connections between Austria’s regions and the airport, significantly expanding the catchment area. For example, over 300,000 additional passengers have been attracted from Salzburg and Upper Austria alone since the introduction of these connections.
Looking ahead, the growth trend is expected to continue, particularly due to the development of the southern corridor as part of the Koralmbahn project. Early data indicates a strong increase in demand from the regions of Carinthia and Styria.
In addition, the transport offering will be further expanded, including through the introduction of new Vienna Airport Bus routes to downtown Vienna later this year.
Vienna’s Deputy Mayor, Barbara Novak, also highlighted the direct impact on the city. “The study’s results clearly show the importance of rail connections for the airport and the local economy. Approximately 47% of Vienna’s residents use the train to get to the airport, which confirms the success of integrated mobility.”
She emphasized that rail transport strengthens Vienna’s role as a transportation hub, expands its catchment area, and attracts more tourists. In 2025, the city recorded over 20 million overnight stays—a new record—benefiting tourism, retail, the hospitality sector, and services.
Rail connections to Vienna International Airport play a strategic role and are more than just a transportation service. “They are part of an integrated system that connects regions to international markets and contributes directly to the economy, employment, and environmental protection,” said Sabine Stock, a member of ÖBB’s executive board for passenger transport.
The Railjet train plays a central role in the development of these connections. Since its launch, passenger numbers have risen from approximately 400,000 in the first year to 3.4 million, representing an average annual growth of 27%.
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