Perpignan–Rivesaltes Airport, located just 5 kilometres northwest of Perpignan’s city centre, serves as a convenient gateway to the Pyrénées-Orientales region, welcoming around 700,000 passengers annually. This compact international airport, also known as Llabanère Airport, provides a hassle-free experience for travellers exploring the Mediterranean coast or connecting to destinations like Paris and Marrakech. Its small size and efficient operations make it an appealing choice for those seeking a quick and pleasant journey.
Getting to and from the airport is easy with multiple transport options. The Sankeo Line 6 bus connects the airport to Perpignan’s city centre in about 20 minutes, with tickets costing €1.30, available via the Sankeo app or onboard. For regional travel, connections at the TGV station link to towns like Argelès-sur-Mer and Banyuls-sur-Mer.
Taxis are readily available outside the terminal, with fares to central Perpignan ranging from €15 to €25, though pre-booking is advised during quieter hours. Drivers can access the airport via the A9 motorway, exiting at Junction 41, and park in the 750-space P1 car park, offering 15 minutes free and rates starting at €1.60 per hour. A planned shuttle to nearby ski resorts will further enhance access in winter.
The airport’s single terminal, spanning 1,715 square metres, is designed for simplicity. With eight check-in desks, three boarding gates, and a single baggage claim area, passengers can move from check-in to boarding in under 30 minutes during off-peak times. Clear signage aids navigation, though the small departures lounge lacks toilets and has frosted windows, limiting comfort. Travellers are advised to arrive two hours early for domestic flights and three hours for international ones, as summer crowds can lead to queues at check-in and security, particularly for Ryanair and Transavia flights.
Dining and retail options are basic but practical. Trib’s, the airport’s sole café and shop, operates from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM Monday to Friday, 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM on Saturdays, and 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM on Sundays, serving sandwiches, pastries, and regional treats like Banyuls wine. A restaurant on the first floor, open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, offers a daily dish and snacks. Duty-free shopping is limited to essentials and souvenirs, sufficient for the airport’s scale.
Facilities cater to essential needs. Free Wi-Fi is available via the “PUF-WIFI” network, though charging points are not widely advertised. A water fountain is located near the restrooms, and a baby equipment rental service allows families to travel light. Passengers with reduced mobility can request wheelchair assistance or priority lanes through their airline 48 hours in advance. A cashpoint by the entrance and a lost-and-found counter add convenience, but luggage storage is unavailable, with alternatives at Perpignan’s train station. The terminal’s small size ensures easy access to amenities, though the lack of a lounge limits relaxation options.
On-time performance is generally dependable, with airlines like Ryanair, Transavia, Volotea, and ASL Airlines operating routes to Paris, Nantes, Dublin, and Oran. Real-time flight updates are available via Flightradar24 or the airport’s website. The airport’s low traffic volume minimises ground delays, though summer peaks can strain capacity.
Connections are limited, as Perpignan–Rivesaltes focuses on point-to-point travel rather than hub operations. Passengers connecting through Paris–Orly or Charles de Gaulle on single-ticket itineraries with Transavia or Air France benefit from automatic baggage transfers, with minimum connection times of 60 minutes. Separate-ticket travellers should allow extra time for baggage reclaim and re-check-in. The terminal’s compact layout ensures quick gate access for outbound flights.
Potential delays may occur during peak summer months due to high passenger volumes, leading to crowded check-in and security areas. The small passport control zone, staffed by just three agents, can result in queues spilling outside. Technical issues with regional carriers or bumpy approaches due to northwesterly winds may also cause disruptions. Travellers have reported occasional staff shortages and unhelpful service, so checking flight status via airline apps is recommended.Perpignan–Rivesaltes Airport delivers a practical and efficient experience for travellers. Its small scale, accessible transport links, and basic amenities make it a solid choice for exploring the Catalan region or connecting to major cities.
