Ostrava, Czech RepublicSmoking policy at Ostrava, Leoš Janáček Airport Ostrava (OSR)
Leoš Janáček Airport Ostrava (OSR) maintains a strict, yet somewhat limited, smoking policy for travelers. The overarching rule is that smoking is absolutely prohibited inside the terminal buildings. However, passengers are permitted to smoke in designated outdoor areas located before the security checkpoints. This means that once you have passed through security and entered the airside area, there are no facilities whatsoever for smoking, a policy that aligns with many modern airports aiming to provide a smoke-free environment for the majority of passengers. For those who need to smoke, the only available options are the clearly marked designated outdoor areas situated outside the main terminal building. These areas are typically found near the entrances or exits of the terminal and are accessible to all members of the public and departing passengers before they proceed to security. It is important to look for specific signage indicating these zones, as smoking elsewhere on airport property outside these designated spots is not allowed. These are open-air spaces, so do not expect enclosed lounges or booths. There have been significant changes to Ostrava Airport's smoking policy in recent years. A crucial update from July 2023 explicitly states that "No smoking allowed after security check. Both smoker areas have been removed." This directly contradicts an older report from July 2018 which mentioned an airside smoking booth. Therefore, travelers should be aware that any previously existing post-security smoking facilities are no longer available, making the current policy much stricter once you are past the security checkpoint. Travelers who wish to smoke must do so before clearing security. If you have a connecting flight, a long layover, or simply need to smoke after checking in, you would need to exit the terminal, use the designated outdoor areas, and then re-enter the terminal and go through security screening again. This process can be time-consuming and inconvenient, so it is advisable to plan your smoking breaks carefully, especially if you have tight connection times. While the policy on vaping is not explicitly mentioned, it is generally recommended to treat e-cigarettes and other vaping devices similarly to traditional cigarettes in airport environments unless specific allowances are clearly stated. It is always important to be mindful of local regulations regarding smoking in public spaces. In the Czech Republic, smoking is generally prohibited in most indoor public areas, including airports, which the airport's policy reflects. Passengers are expected to dispose of cigarette butts responsibly in the provided receptacles within the designated smoking areas. Failure to adhere to these rules could lead to penalties or fines.
