NikiHG

Niki (stylized as NIKI, legally Niki Luftfahrt GmbH) was an Austrian low-cost carrier founded by three-time Formula 1 World Champion Niki Lauda in 2003. The airline operated scheduled and charter services to European and North African leisure destinations, primarily serving Austrian holidaymakers seeking Mediterranean beach getaways.

Headquartered at Vienna International Airport (VIE), Niki began operations on November 28, 2003, initially branded as FlyNiki before adopting its permanent name in February 2004. While often described as a low-cost carrier, Niki distinguished itself by offering complimentary refreshments, newspapers, and full baggage services on most fares.

The airline became part of the Air Berlin group in 2011 and was fully acquired by Etihad Airways in 2016. Following Air Berlin's bankruptcy filing in August 2017 and the collapse of a proposed Lufthansa acquisition, Niki ceased all operations on December 14, 2017. The airline's assets were subsequently acquired by Niki Lauda's new venture, Laudamotion, which was later absorbed by Ryanair.

Unlike ultra-low-cost carriers, Niki offered a more traditional service model:

Standard Service:

• Complimentary refreshments (soft drinks, coffee, tea)
• Free newspapers and magazines
• Leather seats on newer aircraft
• 30" seat pitch in economy

Premium Service (FlyFlex):

• Priority boarding
• Two cabin bags allowed
• Two checked bags included
• Flexible rebooking

Entertainment:

• No seatback screens
• No WiFi (not standard in 2017 for short-haul)

Meals:

• Buy-on-board snacks and meals available
• Complimentary refreshments on all fares