Sankt Gallen Altenrhein Airport
St. Gallen, CH · 14 km (9 mi) east-northeast of St. Gallen
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time |
|---|---|
| Airport Private Transfer Service Prebooked car | — |
| Bus 210 Altenrhein–Staad–Rorschach Bus | — |
| Bus 304 Altenrhein Flughafen–Rorschach Bus | — |
| Public Bus to St. Gallen Bus · Every hour | 40-45 min |
Insider notes
Plan to arrive just 60-90 minutes before your flight; security and check-in are brisk.
Restaurant Cockpit offers an insider's view from the terminal, favored by aviation enthusiasts.
For the best views, book a window seat on the right side if flying east.
Welcome
Sankt Gallen Altenrhein Airport (ACH) may remind you more of a private terminal with its intimate scale and efficient operations. Situated on the picturesque southern shore of Lake Constance, the airport offers passengers spectacular views of the Bodensee and Alps during takeoff and landing. Travelers frequently recommend securing a window seat for these unrivaled vistas. With a little over 100,000 passengers annually, this airport provides a stark contrast to Switzerland's larger hubs, offering a more personal experience.
At a glance
Sankt Gallen Altenrhein Airport is a niche arrival and departure point located 14 kilometers (9 miles) east-northeast of St. Gallen. Primarily serving as a hub for the airline People's, the airport consists of a single terminal (T1) and caters mostly to regional flights, notably those to Vienna. It's a preferred choice for locals seeking a quick and easy journey, skipping the bustle of larger airports. With its convenient location and efficient transit times, it's an appealing option for those within its catchment area, including residents of nearby Bregenz and Vorarlberg, Austria.
Terminals & layout
The layout of ACH is refreshingly simple, with just one terminal (T1) handling all passenger services. You’ll move swiftly from parking to check-in, to security and on to your gate. This uncomplicated structure means you rarely encounter queues, and security checks are notably rapid. Those flying to Vienna are often advised to arrive between 60-90 minutes before departure, which usually suffices thanks to the swift processing.
Getting to and from the city
Although ACH lacks a direct rail station, you have several options for reaching the city. Public buses, such as Bus 304 to Rorschach, and Bus 210 to Staad-Rorschach, operate regularly. A taxi or pre-booked car service to St. Gallen takes about 15-20 minutes, ideal for those in a hurry. If public transport is your choice, plan on a 30-45 minute journey via bus to the regional rail link. Riding a train from the nearby towns to St. Gallen provides additional connections to the national rail network.
Parking
- Short Stay Parking: CHF 20.00/day
- Long Stay Parking: CHF 15.00/day
- Valet Parking: CHF 30.00/day
- Remote Parking: CHF 10.00/day
Short-stay parking offers 30 minutes of free time directly in front of the terminal, which is particularly helpful when dropping off or collecting passengers.
Traveller essentials
The amenities in T1 are sufficient yet limited. For connectivity, there is complimentary Wi-Fi, though power outlets can be scarce during peak hours, so bringing a power bank is a wise choice. Food options are not extensive; most locals recommend grabbing a meal in St. Gallen or bringing snacks if you don't want to rely on the simple on-site café. Further shopping is sparse, with basic needs covered by a Duty Free Shop, a few essential stores, and a newsstand kiosk.
Dining & shopping highlights
The dining choices are modest, with the Restaurant Cockpit functioning as both an eatery and a spot for aircraft spotters. Its windows offer close-up views of the small number of daily flights. For quick bites, the onsite café provides the basics, but it’s best to plan ahead if you have a specific craving.
Shopping includes a Duty Free Shop and a few specialty outlets like the Fashion Boutique and Electronics Store in T1. A Souvenir Shop and Travel Essentials Store can also be found, ensuring that the essentials are covered for departing passengers.
Lounges
ACH's single terminal hosts a range of lounges, reflecting its focus on customer comfort for business and leisure travelers alike. Entry to the People's Lounge is CHF 30, while the Independent Lounge charges CHF 25. Other lounges available include the Business Class Lounge, Priority Pass Lounge, Amex Centurion Lounge, and Chase Sapphire Lounge. While the facilities are limited compared to larger airports, they provide Wi-Fi and a quiet environment to pass brief waits.
Insider tips
- Insider: Plan to arrive just 60-90 minutes before your flight; security and check-in are brisk.
- Local: Restaurant Cockpit offers an insider's view from the terminal, favored by aviation enthusiasts.
- Quiet: For the best views, book a window seat on the right side if flying east.
- Money: Use 30 minutes of free parking directly outside for drop offs, a rarity in Switzerland.
- Time: Add some buffer if connecting to rail; there's no on-site train station.
- Avoid: Don't rely on airport dining; consider eating in St. Gallen or bring your own snacks.