Austria's Aviation Sector Strategizes for Global Competitiveness

The aviation industry in Austria is gradually moving past the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which had severely impacted operations due to travel restrictions and border closures. As the landscape begins to stabilize, the Vienna International Airport is anticipating a record year in 2025, although it faces significant new challenges ahead.

Julian Jäger, the CEO of Vienna International Airport and the president of Aviation Industry Austria (AIA), emphasizes that the sector must adapt to a range of pressing issues, including intense global competition, technological advancements, site-related concerns, and sustainability. To maintain and enhance the competitiveness of the industry, it is essential to establish fair regulatory frameworks, which the government is urged to develop. Jäger advocates for active participation in shaping these conditions in Austria and the European Union, while also focusing on bolstering economic strengths, promoting innovation, and ensuring long-term sustainability for the Austrian aviation sector.

In a recent interview, Jäger reflected on the difficult years preceding the pandemic and discussed the current and future challenges facing the industry. The conversation covered various topics, including the factors contributing to the reduction of low-cost carrier fleets at Vienna Airport, the economic and regulatory environment, and technological innovations aimed at achieving carbon neutrality in aviation.

Aviation Industry Austria, established in June 2022, serves as the umbrella organization for the Austrian aviation sector, combining the interests of various stakeholders, including airports, airlines, and aviation suppliers. Currently, it represents approximately 100 member companies directly or indirectly involved in the aviation industry.

Vienna International Airport AG stands out as one of the few publicly listed airports in Europe. It functions as the complete operator of the airport, providing a range of services, including operational management, ground handling, security services, and commercial activities.

Jäger, who was born in 1971 and studied law at the University of Vienna, began his career in the legal department of Vienna International Airport after working for several companies. He later served as the CEO of Malta International Airport before returning to Vienna in 2011. In addition to his role at Vienna International Airport, he has been leading the AIA since September 2024.