St. Gallen-Altenrhein Airport (ACH/LSZR) Guide: Flights, Connectivity, and Travel to Eastern Switzerland
St. Gallen-Altenrhein Airport, often known locally as the “People’s Airport St. Gallen-Altenrhein,” is a small yet strategically vital regional hub in Eastern Switzerland. Serving the canton of St. Gallen, the beautiful Lake Constance (Bodensee) region, and the Appenzell mountains, the airport provides essential scheduled services, charter flights, and robust support for general and business aviation.
Key Airport Facts (LSZR/ACH)
For travelers seeking quick information about the airport:
| Feature | Details |
| IATA Code | ACH |
| ICAO Code | LSZR |
| Location | Altenrhein, St. Gallen, Switzerland |
| Primary Operator | Airport Altenrhein AG |
| Main Carrier | People’s Viennaline |
| Passenger Volume (2024 Est.) | ~150,000 |
| Coordinates | 47° 28′ 59” N, 9° 34′ 0” E |
| Main Service | Regional flights, Business Aviation, General Aviation |
Overview and Strategic Location
Located in Altenrhein, Switzerland, St. Gallen-Altenrhein Airport is perfectly positioned approximately 15 kilometers (9 miles) east of the city of St. Gallen. Its proximity to the borders of Austria and Germany, situated right by the shores of Lake Constance, makes it an ideal entry point for business travelers and tourists exploring the Four-Country Region (Switzerland, Austria, Germany, Liechtenstein). The airport specializes in offering a personalized, efficient experience, differentiating itself from larger international hubs.
Airlines and Destinations: The People’s Viennaline Link
The airport’s primary scheduled service is maintained by People’s Viennaline, which remains the most significant commercial operator. As of the latest updates (2025), the only non-stop scheduled passenger flight is the crucial link to:
- Vienna (VIE), Austria: This service connects Eastern Switzerland directly to the Austrian capital, making it a valuable route for both business and leisure travel.
In addition to this core route, the airport is a popular base for:
- Seasonal Holiday Charters: Offering direct connections to Mediterranean destinations during peak summer seasons.
- Business and General Aviation: Due to its short transfer times and dedicated services, LSZR is heavily used by private and corporate jets.
Current Updates & Future Outlook: Development and Challenges
St. Gallen-Altenrhein is actively pursuing growth and modernization.
Development Projects (2024-2025):
Construction is planned to commence in Autumn 2024 for a substantial new six-storey hotel and office complex adjacent to the terminal. This ambitious project aims to significantly boost St. Gallen’s capacity as a conference and business tourism destination. The complex will feature:
- A 130-room, three-star hotel.
- 1,500 square meters of modern office space.
- A 160-space multi-storey car park.
Infrastructure Upgrades:
The airport has recently invested in significant operational improvements, including a new CEDD Airfield Ground Lighting (AGL) installation, enhancing safety and operational reliability, particularly in poor visibility conditions.
Funding Uncertainty:
Despite positive development plans, the airport faces a considerable challenge following a federal government proposal to cut subsidies for regional airports. The potential loss of an estimated CHF 3.4 to 5.3 million in annual funding could pose a threat to the airport’s long-term operational existence, highlighting the ongoing political debate about regional connectivity.
Terminal Facilities and Premium Aviation Services
St. Gallen-Altenrhein operates a single, well-organized passenger terminal designed for quick processing and comfort.
Passenger Amenities:
- Connectivity: Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal.
- Dining: A cozy café offers light refreshments and beverages.
- Accessibility: The entire facility is fully equipped to accommodate disabled passengers, ensuring easy transit.
- Currency: All transactions are primarily handled in Swiss Francs (CHF).
Business & General Aviation (FBO):
The airport shines as a dedicated Fixed-Base Operator (FBO) and handling agent. LSZR offers some of the most efficient ground services in the region, popular with private flyers due to:
- Extremely short taxiways and minimal congestion.
- Free crew cars for rapid local transit.
- Comprehensive and discrete ground handling for private and corporate flights.
Operating Hours and Regulations
The airport maintains defined operational windows to balance flight activity with local noise regulations. Standard operating hours for general and business aviation handling are (Local Time):
| Day | Morning Hours | Afternoon/Evening Hours |
| Monday – Friday | 06:30 – 12:00 | 13:30 – 21:00 |
| Saturday | 07:30 – 12:00 | 13:30 – 20:00 |
| Sunday | 10:00 – 12:00 | 13:30 – 20:00 |
Ground Transportation and Seamless Regional Access
Travelers benefit from rapid and efficient connections from the airport to St. Gallen and the wider region.
| Mode of Transport | Estimated Travel Time to St. Gallen | Estimated Cost | Details |
| Bus | ~20 minutes | Approx. €5 / CHF 5 | Reliable public transport service connecting the airport. |
| Taxi | ~15 minutes | Approx. €20–€30 / CHF 20–CHF 30 | Quickest door-to-door option. |
| Car Rental | Varies | Varies | On-site services from major providers including Hertz, Avis, Sixt, and Europcar. |
Parking:
Both short-term and secure long-term parking are available on-site, with daily rates starting around €10 / CHF 10.
Gateway to Lake Constance and Appenzell
The airport’s prime location serves as the perfect launchpad for experiencing the unique charm of Eastern Switzerland:
- Cultural Heritage: It offers immediate access to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Abbey Library of St. Gallen, renowned for its stunning Baroque architecture and medieval manuscripts.
- Natural Beauty: Travelers can quickly reach the picturesque shores of Lake Constance (Bodensee) or venture into the stunning, rolling landscapes of the Appenzell mountains, famous for hiking, cheeses, and unique customs.
Contact Information
For administrative, operational, or lost item inquiries, please use the following details:
- Address: Flughafenstr 11, CH-9423 Altenrhein, Switzerland
- Telephone: +41 71 8585165
- Official Website: www.stgallen-airport.ch