He knows the ski business on both sides of the Swiss-Austrian border very well: Peter Schröcksnadel (80) was President of the Austrian Ski Association (ÖSV) for 31 years. As the majority shareholder, he has been controlling events at the mountain railways in Saas-Fee VS for two years.
While the compatriots of the entrepreneur have to be vaccinated, recovered or tested in order to have fun on the slopes, only the mask requirement applies in Swiss gondolas – at least until the end of December. “I think the Swiss Sonderweg is a good decision,” says Peter Schröcksnadel to Blick.
“Nothing can happen outside when skiing on the slopes”,
so the former ÖSV boss. “At least I don’t have any infection clusters
known in ski areas. “
«Just open the window!»
The Austrians decided yesterday to change the 3G rule from
November 15 fixed to be introduced. In France and Italy, too, skiers must present their Covid proof at the valley stations. “I don’t think it’s good that the state is getting involved everywhere,” said Schröcksnadel. “You can trust people to have some personal responsibility.”
The mask must be on when queuing and on the train. “That has proven itself,” says Schröcksnadel. “And you can just open the windows in the gondola!” Says the Austrian ski veteran and laughs.
“Switzerland is becoming more attractive for foreigners”
Does Switzerland have to be afraid of unvaccinated ski guests from Austria? “I do think that Switzerland will become more attractive for foreign guests,” said Schröcksnadel. Therefore, Switzerland does not need to be afraid: “At the border, Austrians need a certificate anyway.”
On the other hand, the Swiss Sonderweg is not at all well received by several Austrian ski areas. This gives Switzerland an unjustified competitive advantage, they fear.