Austria: Asylum activists' protest blocks A4 Highway to Vienna International Airport March 30

Event

A group of around 50 asylum activists is protesting on roads leading to Vienna International Airport (VIE) the morning of March 30 to denounce the impending deportation of several Afghan nationals. Activists have blocked the A4 Highway (Ost Autobahn) and Hainburger Street. Traffic on the A4 has been suspended in both directions between Schwechat Junction and the airport, and heavy congestion has been reported on Hainburger Street. Security forces are on the scene and have begun to clear the protest blockade. Several arrests have been made. Flights are currently unaffected.

Tight security should be anticipated in the area over the coming hours. Heightened security measures may also prompt airport processing delays. Ongoing attempts to clear the protest blockade may result in clashes with the police. Although bystanders are unlikely to be targeted, they would face an indirect physical threat near any violence.

Advice

Allow additional time to clear potential disruptions if traveling via VIE March 30. Avoid all demonstrations to mitigate related disruptions and as a routine precaution; do not attempt to cross protest blockades. Leave the area immediately at the first sign of a confrontation.