Brive–Souillac Airport, also known as Brive–Dordogne Valley Airport, offers a compact and welcoming gateway for travellers exploring the scenic Dordogne region of France. Located 13 kilometres south of Brive-la-Gaillarde, this small international airport serves a modest range of destinations, primarily through airlines like Chalair and Ryanair, connecting passengers to cities such as Paris, Porto, and London. With a single terminal designed to handle up to 200,000 passengers annually, the airport delivers a straightforward experience tailored to regional travellers.
Accessing the airport from Brive-la-Gaillarde is simple, with taxi services providing the primary mode of transport. A taxi ride to the city centre costs around €30 and takes approximately 15 minutes, though passengers should book in advance during peak times to ensure availability. Public transport options, such as buses or trains, are limited, so travellers often rely on car rentals from on-site agencies like Avis, Europcar, or Hertz for greater flexibility. The airport’s 315-space car park, open 24 hours, offers convenient parking with the first 30 minutes free and weekly rates at €41, making it practical for both short and extended stays.
The terminal’s layout is clear and functional, with all passenger services housed in one building. Check-in desks, security, and boarding areas are easily accessible, and clear signage aids navigation. A separate VIP and business aviation building caters to private flyers, while information points throughout the terminal assist passengers.
Security and check-in processes are generally efficient due to the airport’s smaller size, but travellers should anticipate occasional delays during peak summer months or holiday periods when passenger volumes increase. Staffing shortages or technical issues with baggage systems can also cause minor hold-ups, so arriving two hours before departure is advisable.
Dining options at Brive–Souillac are modest but sufficient, with a café and bar serving snacks, drinks, and light meals from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm daily. Retail is limited to a duty-free shop and a few regional stores offering local specialities and travel essentials, providing enough to meet basic needs. Passengers can enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal, though the connection is capped at two hours. Other facilities include a currency exchange counter, charging stations, and a crèche for families travelling with young children. Accessibility is well-supported, with ramps, lifts, and dedicated assistance services ensuring passengers with mobility challenges or disabilities are attended to promptly, often within 10 minutes if notified 36 hours in advance.
On-time performance at Brive–Souillac is generally reliable, with the airport’s smaller scale reducing congestion-related delays. However, disruptions can occur due to airline-specific issues, such as equipment problems, or weather conditions affecting regional flights. Passengers are encouraged to monitor flight statuses via the airport’s website or in-terminal displays to stay informed.
As a regional airport, Brive–Souillac primarily serves direct flights, with limited connecting options. Chalair’s routes to Paris Orly offer connections to larger hubs, with a minimum connection time of around 40 minutes. The single-terminal setup ensures quick transfers, as passengers remain within one building. Checking visa and entry requirements for onward destinations is recommended to avoid complications.
The airport’s commitment to passenger comfort is evident in its clean facilities and friendly staff, with ongoing efforts to improve sustainability through initiatives like electric ground vehicles. While its size limits the scope of amenities, Brive–Souillac Airport remains a practical and pleasant entry point for those visiting the Dordogne region, offering a no-fuss travel experience with all the essentials in place.
