International Airports
| Airport Name | City | IATA Code | ICAO Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| Václav Havel Airport Prague | Prague | PRG | LKPR |
| Brno-Tuřany Airport | Brno | BRQ | LKTB |
| Ostrava Leoš Janáček Airport | Ostrava | OSR | LKMT |
| Karlovy Vary Airport | Karlovy Vary | KLV | LKKV |
| Pardubice Airport | Pardubice | PED | LKPD |
Domestic Airports
| Airport Name | City | IATA Code | ICAO Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| České Budějovice Airport | České Budějovice | None | LKCS |
| Hradec Králové Airport | Hradec Králové | None | LKHK |
| Kunovice Airport | Kunovice | None | LKKU |
| Vodochody Airport | Vodochody | None | LKVO |
| Přerov Airport | Přerov | None | LKPO |
Notes:
- Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG) is the largest and busiest airport, serving as the main international gateway.
- Airports like Brno, Ostrava, and Karlovy Vary also handle international flights, though at a smaller scale.
- Domestic airports in the Czech Republic are primarily used for regional traffic, general aviation, and training purposes.
Czech Republic (Czechia) Airports: A Comprehensive Guide to Major Hubs and Regional Terminals
The Czech Republic, also known as Czechia, is a landlocked country in Central Europe with a rich history and diverse landscape. This nation of about 10.7 million people boasts several airports that connect it to destinations across the globe. The country has five international airports and multiple smaller domestic airfields, with Václav Havel Airport Prague being the largest and busiest by far.
Czech airports serve as vital gateways for tourists, business travellers and locals alike. They handle millions of passengers each year, facilitating travel and boosting the country’s economy. Most airports in the Czech Republic use Czech and English for signs and announcements, making navigation easy for international visitors.
When flying to or within Czechia, travellers should be aware that the local currency is the Czech koruna. Many airports offer currency exchange services, but it’s often more economical to withdraw money from cash machines upon arrival. From the bustling terminals of Prague to the smaller regional airports, Czech air travel facilities strive to provide efficient and comfortable experiences for all passengers.
Major Airports and Connectivity
The Czech Republic has five main airports that handle both domestic and international flights. These airports vary in size and passenger traffic, with Prague’s airport being the largest and busiest by far.
Václav Havel Airport Prague (PRG)
Václav Havel Airport Prague, formerly known as Prague Airport, is the largest airport in the Czech Republic. It serves as the main international gateway to the country. The airport has four terminals and handles over 17 million passengers annually.
PRG offers connections to numerous European cities and long-haul destinations. It is a hub for Czech Airlines and Smartwings, the largest airline based in the country.
The airport provides excellent transport links to Prague city centre. Travellers can choose between public buses, airport express buses, and taxis. A train connection is planned for the future.
Brno–Tuřany Airport (BRQ)
Brno–Tuřany Airport is the second-busiest airport in the Czech Republic. It is located in Brno, the country’s second-largest city. The airport serves both domestic and international flights.
BRQ has one main terminal building. It handles around 500,000 passengers per year. The airport offers regular flights to London, Munich, and seasonal charter flights to popular holiday destinations.
Public transport connects the airport to Brno city centre. Buses run frequently, and the journey takes about 20 minutes.
Ostrava Airport (OSR)
Ostrava Airport, also known as Leoš Janáček Airport Ostrava, is the third-largest airport in the Czech Republic. It is located near Ostrava, the third-largest city in the country.
OSR has one passenger terminal. It handles around 300,000 passengers annually. The airport offers regular flights to Prague and London, as well as seasonal charter flights to holiday destinations.
A railway station near the airport provides connections to Ostrava city centre and other parts of the country.
Karlovy Vary Airport (KLV)
Karlovy Vary Airport serves the western part of the Czech Republic. It is located near the spa town of Karlovy Vary, a popular tourist destination.
KLV has one terminal building. It handles about 50,000 passengers per year. The airport mainly offers flights to Moscow and seasonal charter flights.
Public buses connect the airport to Karlovy Vary city centre. The journey takes about 15 minutes.
Pardubice Airport (PED)
Pardubice Airport is a small international airport located in the city of Pardubice. It serves both civilian and military purposes.
PED has one passenger terminal. It handles around 100,000 passengers annually. The airport offers seasonal charter flights to popular holiday destinations, particularly in Russia and Ukraine.
The airport is well-connected to Pardubice city centre by public transport. Buses run regularly between the airport and the main railway station.
Travel Services and Infrastructure
Czech airports offer convenient services and modern facilities to enhance the travel experience. Visitors can easily access transportation options and enjoy amenities tailored to their needs.
Car Rental Services
Car rental services are available at major Czech airports, including Prague, Brno, and Ostrava. Travellers can choose from well-known international companies and local providers. Most rental desks are located in the arrivals hall or nearby. It’s wise to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Rental cars offer flexibility for exploring cities like Karlovy Vary or Pilsen. Drivers should note that Czech roads are well-maintained, but some rural areas may have narrower lanes. Remember to carry a valid driving licence and familiarise yourself with local traffic rules.
Public Transport Links
Czech airports are well-connected to city centres via public transport. Prague’s Václav Havel Airport offers regular bus services and a shuttle to the nearest metro station. Brno and Ostrava airports have dedicated bus lines to their respective city centres.
For those heading to Olomouc or Pardubice, train connections are available from nearby stations. Public transport is efficient and cost-effective. Tickets can be purchased at airport kiosks or directly from drivers.
• Bus services: Available at all major airports • Metro connections: In Prague • Train links: From nearby stations to various cities
Airport Facilities and Amenities
Czech airports provide a range of facilities to ensure a comfortable travel experience. Prague airport, the largest, offers:
- Duty-free shops
- Restaurants and cafes
- Currency exchange
- Free Wi-Fi
- Luggage storage
Smaller airports like Brno-Tuřany have fewer but essential amenities. Most airports feature information desks where staff can assist with queries about local attractions like Charles Bridge.
Business lounges are available at larger airports for those seeking a quieter environment. Family-friendly facilities, including play areas and baby-changing rooms, are also common in Czech airports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Czech airports offer modern facilities and connect travellers to cities across Europe and beyond. Navigating terminals, transport options, flight routes, and entry requirements are common concerns for visitors.
What are the main international airports in the Czech Republic?
The Václav Havel Airport Prague is the largest and busiest airport in Czechia. It handles most international flights to and from the country.
Brno-Turany Airport serves the South Moravian region. It’s smaller but offers a stress-free travel experience.
Ostrava Airport in the east and Pardubice Airport in central Czechia also handle some international flights.
How do you navigate terminal facilities at Prague’s Václav Havel Airport?
Prague Airport has two main terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Signs are in Czech and English to help travellers find their way.
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Shops, restaurants, and currency exchange services are in both terminals.
Information desks are staffed to assist passengers with queries about flights or airport services.
What transportation options are available from Czech airports to city centres?
Public buses connect Prague Airport to the city centre and metro stations. The journey takes about 30 minutes.
Airport Express buses link the airport directly to Prague’s main train station.
Taxis and ride-sharing services are available at designated pickup points outside the terminals.
Many hotels offer shuttle services for their guests arriving at Czech airports.
Are there direct flights from the United Kingdom to the Czech Republic?
Yes, several airlines operate direct flights from UK cities to Prague. London, Manchester, and Edinburgh have regular connections.
Flight times from the UK to Prague are typically around 2 hours.
Some seasonal direct flights may be available to other Czech airports during peak travel periods.
What are the visa requirements for entering the Czech Republic through its airports?
EU citizens can enter Czechia with a valid passport or national ID card.
Non-EU visitors may need a Schengen visa, depending on their nationality. This allows travel within the Schengen Area, including Czechia.
Some nationalities can enter visa-free for short stays of up to 90 days.
Can you transit through Czech airports without a visa?
Many travellers can transit through Czech airports without a visa if they don’t leave the international transit area.
This applies to passengers continuing their journey to a non-Schengen country without entering Czechia.
Some nationalities may need an airport transit visa even if not leaving the transit area. It’s best to check current requirements before travel.
