Austrian Airlines History
Austrian Airlines, with the IATA code OS, has a rich and fascinating history that spans over several decades. Founded in 1957, the airline has grown to become the flag carrier of Austria and a prominent player in the European aviation industry.
Initially established as Österreichische Luftverkehrs AG, Austrian Airlines started its operations with a fleet of Vickers Viscount aircraft, serving domestic and international routes. Over the years, the airline expanded its network and modernized its fleet, embracing new technologies and advancements in aviation.
During the 1970s and 1980s, Austrian Airlines experienced significant growth and became a major international carrier. The airline introduced wide-body aircraft, such as the Boeing 767 and McDonnell Douglas MD-80, allowing for increased capacity and long-haul flights to destinations across the globe.
More Airline Insights & Tips
Here are a few of helpful resources & tips that can further enhance your knowledge of Austrian airlines and how to best be prepared for your trip:
- Delays are an unfortunate fact of the life of an air traveler. Arm yourself against surprises by knowing the flight status of your OS Austrian flight before heading to the airport, as this could save you a lot of time, or even your trip to the airport if your flight is canceled.
- Info can be found here on Austrian Airlines’s company structure, headquarters, etc.
- See which partnerships and alliances Austrian has here. This is useful if you want to build up your frequent flyer points on partner airlines.
- Want to know which plane types are in service? Check out OS’s fleet list here.
- When considering a flight booking on Austrian Airlines, be aware that third-party travel sites might require you to use their customer service instead of Austrian 's, which may be less than ideal in certain situations.
Beyond the history presented here for Austrian , if you’re wanting more aviation history, read about the history of commercial flight here, or the history of the airline industry here.
In the 1990s, Austrian Airlines underwent a series of transformations and restructuring. It became a public limited company and joined the Star Alliance, the world's largest airline alliance. This partnership opened up new opportunities for the airline, enabling seamless connectivity and cooperation with other leading carriers.
Throughout its history, Austrian Airlines has prioritized passenger comfort and service excellence. The airline has consistently invested in cabin upgrades, inflight entertainment systems, and innovative amenities to enhance the travel experience for its customers.
Today, Austrian Airlines operates a modern fleet of Airbus and Boeing aircraft, serving a comprehensive network of destinations worldwide. The airline's headquarters are located in Vienna, Austria, and it continues to be a symbol of Austrian hospitality and efficiency in the aviation industry.
For more information about this airline, check out our comprehensive Austrian Airlines Guide.
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