ÖAMTC shines with 2.5 million members and a new director!

ÖAMTC shines with 2.5 million members and a new director!

The Austrian Automobile, Motorcycle and Touring Club (ÖAMTC) was celebrated as the most successful mobility club in the country today, June 5, 2025, during its 78th general meeting. With over 2.5 million members, a considerable increase in recent years, and a dedicated team of almost 4,300 employees, the so-called “Yellow Angels”, the club presents itself as a leading voice on mobility issues.

In a time of growing competition and economic challenges, where inflation affects many areas, the ÖAMTC was still able to present a positive balance sheet for 2024. Over 695,500 mobile breakdown assistance missions and support from 22,200 missions from Christophorus emergency medical helicopters testify to the club's high level of commitment. In addition, the ÖAMTC invests in the future by placing innovative solutions and change in mobility at the center of its actions.

Management changes and visions

Outgoing director Oliver Schmerold, who led the club for 15 years and whose membership grew from 1.7 million to over 2.5 million during his tenure, is handing over the agenda to Ernst Kloboucnik. Kloboucnik, who can look back on more than 30 years of experience in the ÖAMTC, announced that he would focus on mobility change and innovative approaches in both service and advocacy. Its objective is to respond to economic, social and political changes in the area of ​​mobility.

The ÖAMTC has a complex, federalist structure that is based on association statutes that are over 100 years old. There are 12 honorary presidents and seven state associations with employed state directors. The Association of Vienna, Lower Austria and Burgenland (WNB) currently has 42 percent of the voting rights, which has led to increased discussions about possible centralization. WNB President Thumser is accused of wanting to strive for a centralized power structure, while other functional members are calling for greater decentralization.

Future challenges and initiatives

Clear differences between members regarding the strategic direction of the club became apparent. Some officials reject specific operational details and instead advocate harmony within the organization. In order to reduce potential tensions, an external consultant was hired for structural analysis and strategy development. Members also rejected free supervisory board training at the business university, which raises questions about future governance.

In order to meet the growing needs of its members, the ÖAMTC will focus on increased travel activity in the coming months, especially in the summer months. In addition to the 115 bases and 8 driving technology centers, the club is also dedicated to operating 18 emergency helicopter locations. Supporting over 113,100 participants in training sessions demonstrates the commitment to improving road safety and driving skills among members.

With its economic and party-political distance, the ÖAMTC succeeds in positioning itself as a reliable partner in mobility. According to the ÖAMTC, members are at the center of all activities, with the club providing services on issues related to mobility.