🇦🇹 Wiener Neustadt East Airport

Wiener Neustadt East Airport (LOAN) is a public civil airport situated northeast of Wiener Neustadt, Lower Austria, Austria. It operates primarily for business and general aviation, and does not currently have commercial scheduled services, though it did host scheduled flights by Tyrolean in the 1990s.

Notable Features and History: Opened in 1915, Wiener Neustadt East Airport is recognized as one of Europe's oldest airports, initially serving as the factory airfield for Österreichische Flugzeugfabrik (ÖFFAG). After being used for military purposes during World War II, the airfield was closed until 1972 when the Sport Flieger Club Austria (SFCA) leased, renovated, and reopened it. The SFCA was responsible for constructing the asphalt runway that remains in use today. In 1997, Diamond Aircraft Industries, a prominent Austrian aircraft manufacturer, established its headquarters and factories at the airport. The following year, Diamond Aircraft Industries acquired a 51% stake in the airfield, leading to the formation of Diamond SFCA Ges. m.b.H. to manage airport operations. The airport features two aprons, with the southern apron primarily used by business jets and the northern apron for general aviation. It has a single asphalt runway, 09/27, which is 1,067 meters (3,500 feet) long, and its elevation is 896 feet (273 meters) above mean sea level. The airport also has customs facilities, qualifying it as an international airport of entry.

Current Status: Wiener Neustadt East Airport is currently operated by Diamond SFCA Ges. m.b.H. It remains the home base for Diamond Aircraft Industries. While there are no regular commercial flights, the airport allows for extended operating hours upon request and timely registration, with specific considerations for noise protection during early morning departures.