Tarbes-Lourdes-Pyrénées Airport, located 10 kilometres from Lourdes in the Hautes-Pyrénées region, offers a compact and efficient experience for travellers. Handling around 450,000 passengers annually, this small international airport serves as a gateway for pilgrims and tourists, with flights to European destinations like London Stansted, Milan, and Paris operated by airlines such as Ryanair and Volotea. Its proximity to Lourdes and straightforward operations make it a practical choice for those exploring southern France.
Accessing the airport is convenient, with multiple transport options connecting it to Lourdes and nearby Tarbes. A dedicated shuttle bus, operated by TLP Mobilités, runs between the airport and Lourdes town centre, covering the 10-kilometre distance in about 25 minutes for €3 one way. The shuttle aligns with flight schedules, ensuring reliable service, though passengers note on X that only one bus may operate per flight, leading to crowding during peak arrivals.
Taxis are available outside the terminal, costing around €25 to Lourdes, with operators like Green Cab accepting card payments. For drivers, the airport is easily reached via the A64 motorway (exit 12 Tarbes-Ouest) and RN21 road, with free parking for 700 vehicles across three car parks, including short-term and long-term options. The 20-minute drive from Tarbes or 90-minute journey from Toulouse makes car hire a popular choice, with agencies like Avis, Europcar, and Hertz located in the arrivals hall.
The airport’s single terminal, spanning 15,000 square metres, is designed for simplicity. The ground floor houses 16 check-in desks, security, and arrivals, while a small upper level offers a relaxation area and a free observation deck for plane spotting. A second terminal, opened in 2011, covers 500 square metres and includes a VIP lounge and meeting room. The compact layout ensures short walking distances, with security typically taking under 10 minutes due to low passenger volumes. However, during peak periods, such as summer or religious travel seasons, check-in and security queues can extend due to limited staffing or high demand, as noted in Flightradar24 reviews. Travellers are advised to arrive two hours early for international flights and 1.5 hours for domestic ones to account for potential bottlenecks.
Dining and retail options are modest but sufficient for the airport’s size. A café-bar and restaurant serve light meals, sandwiches, and local Pyrenean specialties like cheese or cured meats, with a terrace for pleasant days. Airside, a duty-free shop offers cosmetics, alcohol, and souvenirs, while a newsagent and small gift shop provide travel essentials. Prices can be higher than in Lourdes, so budget-conscious travellers may prefer to shop in town. The limited selection reflects the airport’s focus on functionality, ensuring a calm atmosphere.
Facilities are practical and traveller-focused, with one hour of free Wi-Fi via the airport’s network, charging stations, and an ATM. Accessibility is a priority, with ramps, lifts, and wheelchairs available at no cost, alongside a dedicated rest area for passengers with reduced mobility, equipped with beds and nurse assistance if pre-booked 24 hours in advance. A baby/parent room and a chapel cater to families and pilgrims, while the VIP lounge, accessible for a fee, offers snacks, drinks, and a quiet space. Some passengers note on X that taxi availability can be limited, and the shuttle’s single-trip schedule may leave late arrivals stranded, so pre-booking transfers is recommended.
On-time performance is generally reliable, with the airport’s low flight volume—typically three to four daily flights—minimising congestion. Delays, when they occur, are often due to weather, particularly fog or strong winds in the Pyrenees, or air traffic control issues, as reported on Flightradar24. Airline-specific problems, such as technical faults with Ryanair’s tight schedules, can also disrupt flights. Passengers are encouraged to check statuses via in-terminal screens or apps like Flightradar24.
Connections are limited, as the airport primarily serves point-to-point routes. The single-terminal layout simplifies any necessary gate changes, with minimal walking required. However, with no domestic flights and a focus on budget carriers, passengers needing onward connections may need to travel via larger hubs like Paris or Toulouse, accessible by train or bus from Lourdes in two to three hours. Those with tight layovers should plan ample time, as low-cost airlines may not assist with missed connections.
Potential delays are typically linked to weather, staffing shortages, or baggage handling issues during peak seasons. The shuttle bus’s limited frequency can also delay transfers to Lourdes if flights arrive simultaneously. Travellers should monitor flight updates and pre-book transport to avoid inconvenience.
