Vienna International Airport (VIE)

Common Complaints

• Inconsistent Security and Immigration Experience: Experiences vary significantly, with some reporting swift security checks (around 5-10 minutes for Schengen flights). However, others encounter disorganized and rude security staff, unclear instructions, and aggressive searches. Current average wait times can be around 40-41 minutes for security and 47-48 minutes for passport control.
• Limited Passenger Comfort: A frequent complaint centers on a lack of comfortable seating, particularly for longer layovers, and scarce power outlets for charging devices. Some perceive parts of the airport, especially waiting areas, as outdated and cramped.
• High Prices and Confusing Layout: Travelers often find prices for duty-free goods and food & beverages to be excessively high. The airport's layout can be confusing, with security checkpoints sometimes located directly at the gate, which can confine passengers to small boarding lounges with limited services once through.
• Remote Stands and Bus Boarding: Many express dissatisfaction with the frequent use of remote stands, which necessitates bus transfers to and from aircraft, exposing passengers to various weather conditions.

Overall, Vienna International Airport provides a generally clean and well-connected travel hub with good public transport options. However, travelers should be prepared for potentially variable security wait times and a somewhat limited comfort experience, especially during long layovers, due to issues like seating availability and the use of remote boarding.