Currently, there are three major airports in Paris: Charles de Gaulle Airport, Orly Airport, and Beauvais-Tillé Airport. Let’s take a closer look at each one.
Charles de Gaulle Airport, also known as Roissy Airport, is the largest and busiest airport in Paris. Situated approximately 25 kilometers northeast of the city center, it covers a massive area of over 32 square kilometers. With three terminals, Charles de Gaulle Airport handles both domestic and international flights to destinations all over the world.
As the main hub of Air France, the national carrier of France, Charles de Gaulle Airport plays a crucial role in connecting Paris with the rest of the country and the world. It offers an extensive range of facilities and services, including numerous shops, restaurants, lounges, and even a TGV train station, ensuring smooth and comfortable journeys for millions of passengers each year.
Moving on, we have Orly Airport, which is located approximately 13 kilometers south of the city center. Considered the second-largest airport in Paris, Orly mainly serves domestic and European destinations. It has two terminals, Orly South and Orly West, and offers a wide range of amenities, including duty-free shopping, dining options, and car rental services.
Orly Airport holds historical significance as it was the main airport for Paris before the construction of Charles de Gaulle Airport. Today, it serves as an important base for low-cost carriers and regional airlines, contributing to the overall connectivity of the city.
Last but not least, we have Beauvais-Tillé Airport, also known as Paris Beauvais Airport. Situated around 85 kilometers north of Paris, this airport is referred to as a “secondary” airport, as it serves primarily as a hub for low-cost airlines, such as Ryanair and Wizz Air.
Although Beauvais-Tillé Airport is located a bit further from the city, it still plays an important role in air travel to Paris. The airport provides shuttle services to the city center, making it accessible and convenient for travelers on a budget.
In addition to these major airports, Paris is also well-served by several smaller airports. These include Le Bourget Airport, which is mainly used for business aviation and airshows, and Issy-les-Moulineaux Heliport, which serves as a heliport for the Paris metropolitan area.
Overall, Paris boasts a remarkable number of airports, ensuring that the city remains a major transportation hub in Europe. Whether you’re flying in for business or leisure, you can choose from multiple airports to find the most convenient and cost-effective option for your trip. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the city of love and aviation marvels!