Airports in Lyon

When planning a trip to the bustling city of Lyon, whether for its exquisite gastronomy or rich history, understanding the airport options is essential. Travelers have several choices, as Lyon is serviced by key international and business airports, each offering unique services and amenities. In this comprehensive guide, discover the details of Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport, the city’s primary airport hub, and other regional airports that enhance accessibility to Lyon’s vibrant culture and economic opportunities. Whether you’re flying with major airlines like Air France or budget carriers like EasyJet, these airports promise a seamless travel experience for all visitors. ✈️

Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport: The Main Gateway to Lyon

Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport, the busiest airport in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, acts as a critical entry point to Lyon, connecting the city to over 118 destinations worldwide with direct flights. This airport is a hub for multiple airlines, including the national carrier, Air France, and budget-friendly options like Ryanair and EasyJet. With over 11 million passengers welcomed annually, the facility is known for its efficiency and range of services.

Located just about 25 kilometers east of the city center, Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport is easily accessible via the Rhônexpress tram service, which provides a reliable connection from Lyon Part-Dieu Train Station in just less than 30 minutes. The airport also features a TGV train station, enabling quick links to major cities like Paris. This infrastructure exemplifies how Lyon-Saint Exupéry serves both domestic and international travelers efficiently.

At the airport, a broad range of amenities await passengers. Terminal 1, bustling with activity, houses numerous retail outlets, dining options, and relaxation areas, offering travelers comfort and convenience. The airport also provides extensive parking facilities, accommodating both short and long-term needs with over 14,700 spaces. For those arriving by road, the proximity to key motorways makes driving a practical option.

In terms of environmental stewardship, Lyon-Saint Exupéry stands out as a sustainable facility, having achieved a carbon-neutral status. It was awarded ACA3+ accreditation by Airport Carbon Accreditation, underscoring its commitment to reducing emissions and promoting eco-friendly practices.

Recent Developments and Future Prospects

As of 2025, significant developments are underway to enhance the airport’s capacity and service offerings. Terminal 2 remains closed for extensive renovations, with all operations being temporarily consolidated to Terminal 1. This refurbishment aims to expand passenger capacity and modernize facilities, preparing the airport to handle the increasing influx of travelers.

Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport also plays a pivotal role in the local economy, employing around 6,000 individuals across 200 companies. The presence of major international airlines such as KLM, Lufthansa, and British Airways further positions the airport as an essential link in global air travel networks.

Transfer, Parking, and Accessibility Options

• 🚇 Quick access via Rhônexpress: Less than 30 minutes from Lyon Part-Dieu
• 🚗 Extensive parking with 14,700 spaces for short and long-term stays
• 🛤️ TGV station: Direct links to major cities, including Paris

The accessibility of Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport is one of its strongest points, and it continues to improve with various projects aimed at enhancing passenger experience and operational efficiency. This dynamic hub is pivotal for both tourism and business, making it a key asset as Lyon continues to grow in significance on the European stage.

Business Travel Haven: Lyon-Bron Business Airport

For those seeking more tailored business travel options, Lyon-Bron Airport serves a unique niche. As France’s third-largest business airport, it exclusively caters to business jets, offering bespoke services that mainstream airports might not provide.

Conveniently located just 15 minutes from Lyon’s city center, Lyon-Bron Airport connects to over 2,000 destinations, including many not served by regular commercial flights. This accessibility allows business travelers to reach their destinations efficiently, conserving valuable time often lost in crowded terminals.

Neighboring the airport are several high-standard business hotels and the Eurexpo convention center, making it a strategic choice for corporate events and meetings. With direct access to the motorway, this airport ensures seamless travel for busy executives.

The airport supports approximately 7,200 business flights annually, reflecting its importance in serving the needs of high-profile clients. Special facilities tailored for business travelers, such as meeting rooms and personalized services, offer an elevated travel experience.

Feature	Description	Emoji
Time to City Center	15 minutes	🕒
Destinations	2,000+	🌍
Annual Business Flights	7,200	✈️

This airport is an integral component of Lyon’s economic ecosystem, reflecting the city’s position as a thriving hub for business and innovation. Its strategic location and specialized services ensure Lyon remains a go-to destination for international and domestic business travelers.

Understanding Air Travel Connectivity in Lyon

The connectivity from Lyon to global destinations is noteworthy, anchored by the city’s robust aviation infrastructure. EasyJet, alongside other major airlines like Vueling, TUI Fly, and Swiss International Air Lines, utilize Lyon’s airports to offer numerous travel options.

With its central location in Europe, Lyon provides an array of international flight options that facilitate easy access for both tourists and business travelers. The airport’s strategic connections ensure that Lyon is directly linked to major hubs like Amsterdam, London, and Madrid, enhancing its appeal as a preferred business and leisure destination.

Lyon’s reputation as a gastronomic and cultural cornerstone in France aligns with the city’s air connectivity efforts, making the region a hotbed for culinary tourism and cultural exchanges. Each airline and route at Lyon-Saint Exupéry plays a role in opening new opportunities for exploring this vibrant area of France.

In recent years, flight offerings have expanded, welcoming more airlines into Lyon, thus increasing competition and ensuring competitive fares for passengers. This growth in air services is supported by the continual enhancements to airport facilities and customer service standards, positioning Lyon as a leading travel destination.

Unique Features of Lyon’s Air Travel Network

• 🌟 118 direct destinations globally
• 🏆 Award-winning airport in Europe
• 🛫 Hub for major international airlines

Lyon’s connectivity not only enriches the region’s tourism potential but also fosters international business relations, further bolstering its position as a pivotal city in France and Europe.

How Lyon’s Airports Fuel Local Economy and Tourism

Lyon’s airports are not just transit points; they are powerful economic engines. Through job creation, direct usage, and their integral role in supporting various sectors, these airports have a substantial impact on the local economy.

In particular, the aviation sector supports a wide array of industries in Lyon, including tourism, gastronomy—famed globally—and local businesses. Airlines like British Airways, Lufthansa, and Swiss International Air Lines cater to a diverse traveler demographic, enhancing the city’s international allure.

The presence of a highly trafficked international airport like Lyon-Saint Exupéry encourages the inflow of visitors who contribute to the local economy by staying in hotels, dining in restaurants, and shopping in local stores.

Moreover, trade fairs and conventions, often hosted at venues like the nearby Eurexpo, benefit from the ease of access provided by Lyon’s airports. This supports not only the hospitality sector but also creates opportunities for networking and collaboration across various fields.

Economic Impact	Description	Emoji
Job Creation	6000+ airport jobs	👷‍♂️
Visitor Spending	Boost in hospitality and retail	💰
Trade Boost	Increased trade fairs and conventions	📈

As Lyon continues to thrive, its airports play a critical role in maintaining and expanding its economic vitality. They not only support varied industries but also enhance the city’s capacity to attract global visitors and investors.

Key Transportation Tips When Traveling Through Lyon’s Airports

Travelers to Lyon can enjoy an efficient network of transport options from the airports, ensuring seamless connectivity to the city and beyond.

The airport offers convenient car rentals and a broad array of public transport options, including the swift Rhônexpress tram service. Operating all year round, this ensures timely transfers to and from Lyon’s bustling city center.

For those driving, clear signages lead to and from the airport, assisting in navigating the ample parking spaces effectively. This facility allows stress-free access for those traveling by car, with amenities to cater to various parking durations.

Additionally, bus connections from Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport run frequently, linking with local communes and extending the reach of air travel services within the region.

• 🚂 Rhônexpress: Fastest route to city center
• 🚌 Local buses: Connection to nearby areas
• 🚗 Available car rentals: Flexibility in travel

Such facilities ensure travelers can seamlessly transition from air to ground transport, accentuating the practical aspects of travel through Lyon’s airports.

FAQs About Airports in Lyon

What is the main international airport in Lyon?

Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport is the primary international airport in Lyon, with extensive global connections and a variety of amenities for travelers.

How far is Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport from the city center?

The airport is approximately 25 kilometers from Lyon’s city center, and is easily accessible via the Rhônexpress tram and other transport options.

Are there business facilities available at Lyon airports?

Both Lyon-Saint Exupéry and Lyon-Bron airports offer various business facilities, including meeting rooms and other specialized services to cater to business travelers.