Mobility Minister Hanke: Record year balance – Austria's aviation sector at a historical high
The year 2025 marks a historic milestone for Austrian aviation. Having surpassed the 32-million passenger mark, Vienna Airport records the most successful year in its history. Concurrently, the Federal Ministry for Innovation, Mobility and Infrastructure (BMIMI) has greatly expanded international air transport relations, strengthening Austria's role as a competitive hub in the heart of Europe.
"We look back on an extraordinary year that has exceeded all forecasts," concludes Federal Minister Peter Hanke. "Welcoming the 32-millionth passenger at the Vienna location before the year's end is an impressive testament to the international appeal of our capital and the capability of our infrastructure. We secure the legal basis for further growth while Vienna sets new records."
Milestone agreement with South Korea
In the past year, the Federal Ministry for Innovation, Mobility and Infrastructure (BMIMI), in coordination with the Foreign Ministry, has concluded or updated numerous air transport agreements with other countries. Essential in these was the inclusion of social and environmental standards, as well as clauses for fair competition.
A significant breakthrough was achieved in negotiations with the Republic of Korea. After years of discussions, an agreement on key competition articles was reached. The talks are expected to conclude in the first quarter of 2026.
"South Korea is of immeasurable value to Vienna Airport, particularly as one of the most important cargo markets," stresses Hanke. "By legally securing this connection, we strengthen Vienna Airport as a major logistics hub for high-tech goods." This is particularly relevant as cargo volume at the location already recorded a significant increase of 7.8% in the first three quarters of 2025.
Ethiopia: Gateway to Africa doubles capacities
Austria is also making a strong impact on the promising African continent: The new agreement with Ethiopia allows for a doubling of weekly flights from seven to 14.
"Addis Ababa is one of the most important hubs in all of Africa," says the Minister. "With the doubling of capacities, we connect Austria significantly better to this continent full of economic opportunities. It's a decisive advantage for our companies active in those markets."
Reliable, Safe, Punctual
The record balance for the year 2025 also highlights the operational figures.
Historic passenger record
For the first time in the history of the airport, the mark of 32 million travellers at the Vienna location was surpassed. With an increase of over 12 percent in flights in overfly (ACC) from January to November 2025, international forecasts (4.5 percent) were significantly exceeded.
Peak load sovereignly mastered
On 13 July 2025, with 4,381 movements in Austrian airspace, a new all-time record was achieved.
Quality and punctuality
Despite the enormous frequency, Vienna remains one of the most punctual hubs in Europe. That 92 percent of the remaining delays at the location were weather-related underscores the efficiency of Austro Control.
Innovation and strength of location
"Aviation is a central economic factor, indispensable for tourism and the movement of goods. We continue to invest in digitalisation and state-of-the-art infrastructure at Austro Control to not only maintain this level of quality but to enhance it," says Mobility Minister Peter Hanke.