Arras-Roclincourt

• Official Airport Website: www.ailesarrageoises.fr (main flying club website)
• Information Desk Phone: +33 3 21 24 89 09
• Airport Address: Chemin de Blangy, 62223 Roclincourt, France
• Email: ulmclubarras@gmail.com (flying club contact)
• Social Media: Official pages of "Les Ailes Arrageoises" flying club on Facebook and Instagram
• Lost Luggage Information: It is recommended to contact the airfield administration or the flying club building directly
• Passenger Support Contacts: +33 3 21 24 89 09 (general enquiry line)

Getting to Arras-Roclincourt Airport is effortless, as it is located just 4 kilometres north of Arras city centre. Due to this proximity, the journey takes minimal time regardless of your chosen mode of transport. As this is a small aviation airfield, there are no massive transport hubs typical of international hubs, but the logistics are simple and straightforward.

Below are the main ways to reach the airfield from the city and surrounding areas.

Taxi and Transfer

The most convenient and fastest way to reach the location is by taxi. A trip from the Arras railway station or the central squares will take about 10–15 minutes, provided there is no traffic. Both local taxi services and popular ride-hailing apps operate in the city. It is recommended to book a car in advance, especially if you plan to depart early in the morning or on weekends.

The estimated cost of a trip from the city centre is 15–20 Euros. If you are travelling with bulky luggage or flight equipment, a taxi is the ideal choice, eliminating the need for transfers.

Public Transport

Although Arras does not have a metro, the city possesses a developed bus network managed by Artis. There is no direct shuttle to the aircraft steps, but regular city buses connect Arras with the commune of Roclincourt.

• Bus: Routes heading towards Roclincourt will suit you (usually lines serving the northern suburbs). From the nearest stop in the village to the flying club entrance, you will need to walk for about 10–15 minutes. The cost of a single ticket is quite affordable — around 1.20–1.50 Euros.
• Train: The railway station is located in the centre of Arras. High-speed TGV trains from Paris and regional TER expresses arrive here. From the station to the airfield, it is best to continue by taxi or rental car.

Car Rental and Private Transport

For those who value freedom of movement, renting a car is an excellent option. The route from central Arras follows the D917 road (Route de Lens). The road is straight and scenic, passing by fields and memorials.

Parking: Parking for visitors and flying club members is provided at Arras-Roclincourt Airport. Unlike large international airports, parking here is generally free and located in immediate proximity to the airfield and club building, allowing you to leave your car literally two steps away from the aircraft.

Nearest Major International Airports

Since Arras-Roclincourt mainly handles private and training flights, most tourists arrive in the region via large neighbouring aviation hubs and then travel to Arras by train or car. Here is a list of the nearest alternatives for commercial flights:

• Lille Airport (France) — the nearest major airport, located just 35 km away. An ideal option for domestic and some European flights.
• Ostend-Bruges International Airport (Belgium) — located approximately 98 km away, convenient for travellers combining a trip to France with a visit to the Belgian coast.
• Beauvais-Tillé Airport (France) — located 109 km away. This airport is popular among low-cost carriers and serves as a budget "gateway" to the region.
• Brussels South Charleroi Airport (Belgium) — located 118 km away and offers a wide selection of affordable flights across Europe.
• Brussels Airport (Belgium) — the main international hub 135 km from Arras, accepting flights from all over the world.

Since Arras-Roclincourt (QRV) is a general aviation aerodrome, its structure differs radically from large international hubs. Here you will not find endless corridors, confusing transfer schemes, or multi-level car parks. The entire space is organised as compactly and functionally as possible so that pilots and passengers can feel at home.

Number of Terminals and Their Purpose

There are no passenger terminals in the conventional sense at Arras-Roclincourt. All infrastructure is concentrated around one main administrative building (the flying club building) and the adjacent hangars. This building serves as:

• Registration and guest reception area;
• Waiting and relaxation lounge;
• Administrative centre for pilots (briefing room);
• Restaurant or café for visitors.

Airport Map and Navigation

Navigation around the territory is extremely simple and intuitive. The airfield is designed in such a way that it is impossible to get lost. The car park is located in immediate proximity to the main entrance. Passing through the club building or going around it (depending on access rules on a specific day), you almost immediately find yourself on the apron at the aircraft stands.

Departure and Arrival Zones

Unlike commercial airports with separated passenger flows, here the departure and arrival zones are effectively combined. This creates a special atmosphere of openness:

• Departure: Passengers receive a briefing and head to the aircraft accompanied by the pilot or instructor directly from the main building.
• Arrival: After landing and taxiing, the aircraft stops on the apron, and guests can walk to the flying club building in literally one minute.

Time for Procedures

One of the main advantages of flying via small aviation through Arras-Roclincourt is saving time. There are no long queues for security checks and passport control (for domestic flights).

• Check-in: Formalities take minimum time. Usually, it is sufficient to arrive 15–20 minutes before the scheduled departure to meet the pilot and undergo the pre-flight briefing.
• Security Check: There is generally no classic security check with frames and scanners, but the pilot is obliged to ensure the safety of luggage and passengers in accordance with aviation security rules.

Transfers and Connections

As the airfield handles direct private flights and training flights, the concept of a "transit zone" or transfers between flights does not exist here. If your journey involves a transfer to a commercial flight, you will need a ground transfer to the nearest major airport (for example, to Lille or Brussels).

Navigation Recommendations

Upon arrival at the airfield, look for the sign of the Les Ailes Arrageoises flying club or the restaurant. If you have booked a private flight or an introductory flight, the staff at the administration desk will tell you where your pilot is waiting. The main rule on the airfield is never to walk onto the apron unaccompanied, even if the aircraft seems very close.

The history of Arras-Roclincourt (QRV) airfield is not just a chronicle of runway construction, but a fascinating journey from battlefields to peaceful skies filled with the hum of sports aircraft. Although aviation in the region began to develop at the dawn of the 20th century, the modern status and appearance of the air harbour were formed in the post-war period.

Foundation and Official Opening

The land on which the planes are based today holds the memory of the dramatic events of the First World War, when the front line passed through here. However, as a civil facility, the airfield began its history in the middle of the last century. The key date is considered to be 1956, when Arras-Roclincourt airfield was officially opened for civil air traffic. This year became the starting point for the development of amateur and tourist aviation in the region, turning former military fields into a meeting place for aviation enthusiasts.

Stages of Development and Modernisation

Soon after opening, in the second half of the 20th century, active construction and infrastructure development began. Initially a simple dirt strip, it gradually acquired the necessary structures. A crucial stage was the creation and strengthening of the local flying club, Les Ailes Arrageoises. Through the efforts of the pilot community, permanent hangars for equipment storage were erected, taxiway surfaces were improved, and a control tower was built. Constant modernisation allowed the airfield to accept not only ultralight aircraft but also heavier private planes.

Achievements and Role in Aviation

Arras-Roclincourt prides itself on its reputation as one of the best piloting schools in northern France. Significant achievements of the airfield include:

• Centre for "Remembrance Tourism": The airfield has become the main base for unique aerial tours over the Vimy Memorial and historic battlefields, allowing tourists to look at history from a new angle.
• Training Ground: The local flight school has trained hundreds of pilots, many of whom subsequently moved into major commercial aviation.
• Ecological Initiative: In recent years, noise reduction programmes have been successfully implemented here, allowing the airfield to coexist harmoniously with residents of nearby communes.

Interesting Historical Facts

The past of this place continues to remind of itself even decades later:

• Echoes of War: During reconstruction and excavation works on the airfield territory, historical artifacts and shell casings from the Great War have been repeatedly found, making this land a true open-air museum.
• Royal Visits: Due to the proximity to important memorials, the airspace and infrastructure of the airfield are periodically used to facilitate visits by high-ranking officials and delegations during commemorative ceremonies.

The infrastructure of Arras-Roclincourt (QRV) airport fully corresponds to its status as a general aviation aerodrome. Here you will not find multi-storey shopping galleries or noisy waiting halls typical of international hubs. Instead, passengers and pilots are offered a compact but high-quality set of services focused on comfort, speed of service, and a cosy club atmosphere.

Restaurants and Gastronomy

A true gem of the airfield is the local brasserie-restaurant, which is popular not only among aviators but also with residents of the surrounding areas.

• Restaurant with Panoramic View: The establishment (often known as L'Envol or under another name depending on the current operator) offers traditional French cuisine. The main feature is the terrace or large windows looking directly onto the runway. This is an ideal place to have a coffee or lunch while watching aircraft takeoffs and landings.
• Cafés and Bars: A bar counter is usually available in the flying club building, where you can order soft drinks and light snacks in a casual setting.

Shops

The shopping zone here is kept to a minimum. There are no Duty Free zones or fashion boutiques at the airfield. However, in the administrative building or the flying club premises, you can sometimes purchase:

• Aviation maps and souvenirs with club symbols;
• Basic accessories for pilots;
• Local regional products (depending on the season).

Lounges, Wi-Fi and Business Services

The concept of a "VIP lounge" takes on a different meaning at Arras-Roclincourt: here, every guest of a private flight feels like a privileged passenger.

• Rest Zones: Instead of closed business lounges, a common cosy hall of the flying club with soft furniture is used, where pilots and passengers can relax before departure.
• Wi-Fi and Connectivity: Wireless internet access is provided in the main building area, allowing you to stay connected or check flight charts. Charging stations as such may be absent, but the administration will always help find a spare socket for a phone or laptop.
• Conference Facilities: For briefings or small business meetings, arrangements can be made to use classrooms or the flying club's meeting room (upon prior request).

Financial and Medical Services

Given the compactness of the airfield, some services are located outside its premises:

• Banks and Currency Exchange: There are no ATMs or currency exchange points on the airfield territory. It is recommended to arrange cash in advance or use banking services in the city of Arras (just 10 minutes by taxi).
• Medical Assistance: There is no specialised medical centre. Airfield staff are trained in first aid, and first aid kits are available. In case of serious problems, emergency services arrive from Arras in the shortest possible time.

Services for Passengers with Children

Special playrooms or mother-and-child rooms are not provided at the airfield. However, for children, visiting this place becomes an exciting adventure thanks to the opportunity to see aeroplanes from a close distance. The atmosphere here is friendly, and staff generally treat young travellers with kindness.

Accessibility

The airfield is distinguished by good accessibility for passengers with reduced mobility. All main infrastructure facilities are located on the ground floor, which eliminates the need for lifts or escalators. The absence of jet bridges and complex transfer systems allows you to get from the car park to the aircraft quickly and without unnecessary obstacles. If necessary, staff are always ready to provide physical assistance during boarding.

Hotels Near the Airport

There are no hotels on the airfield territory itself, but thanks to the proximity to the city, finding accommodation is not a problem. Here are several options within a 5–7 km radius:

• Hotels in Arras Centre: A wide selection from budget chain hotels to luxury hotels in historic buildings on the Grand'Place and Place des Héros.
• Manoir de Roclincourt: Cosy guest houses of the B&B (Bed & Breakfast) type can be found in the village of Roclincourt itself, within walking distance or a couple of minutes' drive from the airfield.
• Business Hotels: Near the Artois Expo exhibition centre (at the entrance to Arras), there are modern hotels convenient for business travellers.

The gastronomic map of Arras-Roclincourt (QRV) airport is as unique as the airfield itself. Here you will not encounter chain fast-food outlets, global brand coffee shops, or food courts scattered across different terminals. All culinary life is concentrated in one cosy place, which is the heart of the airfield and a point of attraction not only for travellers but also for local gourmets.

Restaurant and Atmosphere

The only, but very worthy establishment on the territory is the brasserie-restaurant (often referred to as L'Envol or simply the "Flying Club Restaurant"). It is located in the landside area, in the main administrative building. This means that it can be visited by pilots and passengers, as well as those seeing them off or simply guests wishing to enjoy lunch in an unusual setting.

The main highlight of the establishment is the panoramic view of the airfield. Tables are arranged so that guests can watch the takeoffs and landings of light aircraft. In warm weather, an open terrace operates, where the sound of propellers mixes with the aroma of fresh coffee.

Local Cuisine and Signature Dishes

The restaurant menu focuses on traditional French cuisine and hearty dishes of the Hauts-de-France region. This is an excellent chance to get acquainted with the gastronomy of northern France without travelling far from the aircraft steps. Dishes worth trying include:

• Flemish Carbonnade (Carbonnade flamande): Beef stewed in dark sauce with gingerbread and spices. Served with a generous portion of French fries. (Please note: This dish is traditionally prepared with beer/alcohol).
• Welsh Rarebit (Welsh): A hot, hearty dish of melted cheddar cheese, mustard, and beer, served on a slice of toasted bread with ham and an egg. (Please note: Contains non-halal meat and alcohol).
• Potjevleesch: A traditional cold meat terrine in jelly, which is ideal for a light lunch on a hot day.

Quick Snack vs Full Lunch

The format of the establishment allows adaptation to your time constraints:

• For a quick snack: Approach the bar counter. Here you can order an espresso, soft drinks, fresh pastries (croissants, brioche) or a sandwich (croque-monsieur). Service at the bar is usually very prompt.
• For a full lunch: If you have an hour or an hour and a half before departure, take a table by the window. Lunch here is a ritual. The Menu of the Day (Menu du Jour) usually includes a starter, main course, and dessert at an attractive price.

Dietary Requirements

Since the cuisine here is classic, specialised menus for vegans or those with allergies may not be available in printed form, but the staff are always ready to accommodate requests.

• For Vegetarians: The menu always features large salads with local cheeses (for example, with goat cheese or Maroilles cheese), omelettes, and vegetable side dishes.
• Vegans and Gluten-Free: Choices are limited. It is recommended to check the ingredients with the waiter; the chef can often prepare a vegetable dish or salad without dressing upon individual request.
• Halal: The establishment does not typically hold specific certification, but the menu includes fish dishes and vegetarian options.

Prices and Opening Hours

The pricing policy of the restaurant is affordable and corresponds to the average level of city brasseries in Arras.

• Average Bill: A two-course lunch with a drink will cost approximately 18–25 Euros per person. Coffee and dessert — around 6–8 Euros.
• Opening Hours: The restaurant is focused on lunchtime (from 12:00 to 14:30). At other times, the establishment operates as a bar/café. It is important to note that the restaurant may be closed on Mondays (standard practice for France), and dinners are often served only on Fridays and Saturdays. Before visiting, it is recommended to check the current schedule on the flying club website.

Travelling through a small airfield like Arras-Roclincourt differs radically from the experience of flying through large international hubs. Here there is no bustle, endless queues, or rigid regulations typical of commercial aviation. However, to ensure your flight is as comfortable and safe as possible, it is worth considering the specifics of small aviation.

Arrival Time: Forget the Three-Hour Rule

One of the main advantages of private flights is the absence of the need to arrive at the airport several hours in advance. At Arras-Roclincourt, it is sufficient to arrive 20–30 minutes before the planned departure. This time is quite enough to meet the pilot, discuss the route, load luggage, and undergo the pre-flight briefing. Arriving too early can be tiring, as infrastructure for long waiting periods is limited here.

Registration and Security: Personal Contact

Here you will not find check-in counters or security zones with metal detector frames.

• Documents: Document checks (passport or ID card) are carried out directly by the pilot in command before boarding. Keep your documents handy.
• Security: Despite the informal atmosphere, safety rules are strict. The pilot personally controls what you take on board. Be ready to show the contents of your bags upon first request.

Seat Selection in the Aircraft

In light aircraft (such as Cessna or Piper), passenger seating is dictated not by your preferences, but by the centre of gravity of the aircraft. The pilot allocates seats based on the weight of passengers and luggage to ensure balance.

• Tip: If you want to sit next to the pilot (in the co-pilot's seat) for a better view, inform them in advance. If weight parameters allow, your request will likely be granted.
• Photography: Windows in light aircraft can reflect glare. For high-quality photos, wear dark clothing to avoid reflections in the glass.

Hand Luggage and Baggage: Softness and Compactness

Luggage compartments of small aircraft have non-standard shapes and limited volume. Hard suitcases on wheels are your main enemies here.

• What to take: Use soft sports bags, backpacks, or duffle bags. They are easy to place in a small compartment.
• Restrictions: Strictly observe the weight limit stated by the pilot or flying club. Overloading is unacceptable in small aviation.
• Prohibited Items: Rules on carrying dangerous substances (explosives, flammable liquids, gases) apply just as strictly as on commercial flights.

Connections and Transfers

Arras-Roclincourt is not designed for transit connections in the classical sense. If your route involves a further departure by a commercial flight:

• Allow at least 3–4 hours for the transfer, taking into account the time for a taxi to Arras station or a transfer to major airports (Lille, Beauvais, Brussels).
• Book a taxi in advance for the time of your private plane's arrival, as free cars do not always wait at the airfield.

Customs Control

For flights within the Schengen area, customs formalities are usually absent. However, if you are arriving from the UK or another country outside the Schengen zone, the airfield administration must be notified at least 24 hours in advance. In such a case, border police officers (Douane/Police aux Frontières) may be summoned for your arrival. Failure to comply with this rule can lead to serious fines and delays.

Saving Time and Money

• Dining: Prices in the flying club restaurant are significantly lower than in cafes at international airports, and the quality of food is higher. Having lunch here before departure is an excellent way to save money and enjoy home-style French cuisine.
• Transport: If you are travelling in a group, renting a car in Arras may be more economical than ordering several taxis, especially if you plan to visit memorials in the surrounding area.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay

In small aviation, the main boss is the weather. Flights may be postponed or cancelled due to fog, strong wind, or low cloud cover, even if the weather seems good on the ground.

• Stay Calm: Pressuring the pilot is useless and dangerous. The decision to cancel is made solely for your safety.
• Have a Plan "B": Always have a backup option (for example, the schedule of TGV trains from Arras to Paris or Lille) if flying becomes impossible.
• Waiting in Comfort: Use the pause to visit the local restaurant or take a walk to the nearest memorial if time permits.