Bordeaux Airport

Welcome to the aerial gateway of the world's vineyard capital! Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport is not just a transit point, but your first introduction to the elegant region of Nouvelle-Aquitaine. Here, modern infrastructure blends harmoniously with a relaxed southern atmosphere, hinting to travelers that the famous vineyards and the ocean coast are very close by. The airport is constantly being updated, becoming more convenient and eco-friendly, ensuring your journey through France begins with the most pleasant impressions.

Airport Features and Advantages

Bordeaux Airport boasts several unique features that make it convenient for tourists:

Direct City Connection: One of the main advantages is the Tram Line A, which connects the terminals directly to the centre of Bordeaux. The journey takes about 35–40 minutes, allowing you to avoid traffic jams and save on taxi fares. The stop is located right outside the arrivals hall exit.

Smart Zoning: The complex consists of three main sectors. Hall A handles most international flights, Hall B is traditionally dedicated to Air France flights, and a separate terminal with the playful name Billi (Bordeaux Illico) is specially designed for low-cost carriers, ensuring a simplified and fast boarding procedure.

Gastronomic Focus: Befitting a capital of viticulture, the Duty Free shops feature an impressive selection of local beverages and delicacies. This is an excellent opportunity to purchase a bottle of fine regional produce or a box of traditional canelés pastries before your flight if you didn't manage to do so in the city.

To contact representatives of Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD) and obtain necessary information, you can use the following contact details:

• Official Website: The most complete and up-to-date information is available on the official website — www.bordeaux.aeroport.fr.
• Information Desk Phone: For general inquiries, you can call: +33 5 56 34 50 50.
• Airport Address: Aéroport de Bordeaux, Cidex 40, 33700 Mérignac, France.
• Email: A direct email address for general inquiries is not published. For communication, it is recommended to use the special contact forms available on the official website in the "Contacts" section.
• Social Media: Follow news and updates on the airport's official pages on popular social networks such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and LinkedIn.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of lost luggage during a flight, you must contact your airline's tracing service directly. If you left personal items in the terminal building, use the form on the "Objets trouvés" (Lost and Found) page on the airport website.
• Passenger Support Service: Assistance for passengers with reduced mobility and other types of support are provided upon prior request through the airline, as well as through the airport's general communication channels.

Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD) is located just 12 kilometers west of the centre of Bordeaux, and it can be reached by several convenient methods. The choice of the optimal route depends on your priorities: budget, time, or level of comfort. On average, the journey from the city centre to the airport takes between 30 to 60 minutes.

Public transport is the most budget-friendly solution. Tram Line A directly connects the airport with the city centre and the main Saint-Jean railway station. The tram ride is a reliable and predictable method that will take approximately 35-40 minutes. You can also reach the terminals via the Lianes 1+ bus. This route makes more stops, so the trip lasts longer, about 50-60 minutes. The fare in both cases corresponds to the standard city tariff.

If you value comfort and speed, your choice is a taxi or transfer. Taxi ranks are located directly outside the arrivals hall exits. The trip to the city centre will take 20-30 minutes, but time may vary due to traffic. The estimated cost is 35–50 euros, keeping in mind that night and holiday tariffs may be higher. A good alternative, especially for groups or travelers with bulky luggage, is a pre-booked transfer with a fixed price.

Car rental is an ideal option for those who wish to explore the famous vineyard regions and picturesque corners of France. Representatives of all leading rental companies operate at Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport. It is convenient to reach the airport by car via the A630 ring road (Rocade). Several types of parking are provided for personal vehicles: from express zones P0 and P1 near the terminals to the more economical long-term parking P4, from where a free shuttle delivers passengers.

The Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD) has a clear and logical structure consisting of three terminals, each serving specific destinations and airlines. The main airport building includes two halls — Hall A and Hall B. Nearby is the separate Billi terminal, designed for budget carriers. This organization allows for efficient distribution of passenger flows and simplifies navigation for travelers arriving in this famous agricultural region of France.

Hall A is the main international terminal and serves most flights outside the Schengen area. This is the most modern and spacious hall with a large selection of shops and restaurants. Hall B is historically linked to Air France and primarily serves its flights, including those to Paris, as well as some other domestic and Schengen destinations. Terminal Billi (Bordeaux Illico) is a specialized terminal for low-cost airlines such as Ryanair and easyJet. It features a simpler setting and a basic set of services, which allows for lower airport fees for budget carriers.

Moving between terminals is effortless. Hall A and Hall B are in the same building and are connected by a convenient walkway, allowing free movement between them. Terminal Billi is located in a separate building, a few minutes' walk from the main complex. The path to it is well marked with signs. Departure and arrival zones in each terminal are clearly separated: generally, arrival halls are on the ground floor, and departures are on the first floor (in the main building A/B).

To avoid rushing, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance. For international flights from Hall A, allow at least 2.5–3 hours before departure. For flights from Hall B, 1.5–2 hours is usually sufficient. Despite the compactness of the Billi terminal, due to high passenger traffic on low-cost flights, queues for check-in and security can be long, so it is also worth arriving here 2–2.5 hours in advance. Always check beforehand which terminal your flight departs from, as this is key for planning your time at the airport.

The history of Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD) began long before the era of mass tourism. It was founded in 1917 as a military airbase and training centre, playing an important role in pilot training at the end of the First World War. Soon after, it began serving the first civil flights, laying the foundation for its future development as a key transport hub in the southwest of France.

After the Second World War, a new stage in the airport's life began. With the growing popularity of air travel, the old infrastructure could no longer cope with the flow of passengers. This led to the first major expansion: in 1971, a modern terminal was opened, known today as Hall A. This step turned the airport into a full-fledged international hub capable of handling significantly more flights and passengers.

One of the most striking facts in the history of Bordeaux Airport is its close connection with the legendary supersonic aircraft, the Concorde. It was here that many test flights of this engineering marvel took place. Symbolically, one of the last flights of the Concorde in 2003 ended precisely in Bordeaux, where the aircraft was handed over to a museum, forever linking its history with this airport.

Meeting the challenges of the new millennium, the airport continued to develop actively. In 1999, Hall B was opened, and in 2010, the opening of the innovative Billi terminal took place, specially designed to serve budget airlines. This modernization significantly increased capacity and made travel from Bordeaux even more accessible. Today, the airport continues to grow, regularly updating its infrastructure and confirming its status as one of the country's most important aviation hubs.

Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD) offers passengers a full range of services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Throughout the terminals, free and unlimited Wi-Fi is available, and numerous power outlets and USB ports allow you to easily charge electronic devices before your flight. For those seeking extra comfort, VIP lounges are open, where you can relax in a quiet atmosphere and enjoy snacks and beverages.

The selection of dining establishments and shops will satisfy any request. At the airport, you will find everything: from restaurants featuring local cuisine and cozy cafes with fragrant pastries to bars and fast-food outlets. Numerous shops, including Duty Free, offer a wide range of goods: from souvenirs and delicacies from the Aquitaine region to perfumes, cosmetics, and fashionable clothing from famous brands.

For financial matters, bank branches, currency exchange points, and ATMs operate within the terminals. In case of necessity, passengers can use the medical centre for first aid. For business travelers, business centres and conference rooms are equipped and available for rent for meetings and negotiations.

The airport pays special attention to the comfort of passengers with children and people with reduced mobility. For young travelers, play areas are provided, and restrooms are equipped with changing tables. Passengers with limited mobility are provided with all necessary assistance: from special parking spaces and ramps to accompaniment during boarding. If you have a long layover or an early flight, several hotels of various price categories are located in the immediate vicinity of the terminals.

At Bordeaux Airport (BOD), one of the key aviation hubs in southwest France, travelers will find plenty of options for a snack or a full meal. Gastronomic points are located in all terminals and offer both international cuisine and local delicacies, allowing you to pass the time before your flight with comfort and taste.

Most cafes and restaurants are concentrated in the main terminals A and B. In the public area (landside), accessible before security control, you can find coffee shops and bakeries, such as Brioche Dorée, where it is convenient to have coffee with a croissant while seeing off or meeting loved ones. The main selection awaits passengers in the secure area (airside) after control. Here, you will find both à la carte restaurants where you can dine leisurely, and fast-food outlets like Paul or Pret A Manger, offering sandwiches, salads, and pastries. For connoisseurs, there are venues where you can sample famous local beverages.

Terminal Billi, serving low-cost airlines, offers a more modest but functional selection. Here you will find several cafes and kiosks with ready-made snacks, drinks, and sandwiches. This is an ideal option for those who want a quick bite right before boarding their flight.

While in Bordeaux, be sure to try local gastronomic specialties. Pay attention to canelés — famous pastries with rum and vanilla, which are sold in many airport coffee shops. And in the restaurants and venues of the departure zone, do not miss the opportunity to enjoy a glass of excellent local produce — this is a wonderful start or end to a journey through the region.

Regarding special dietary needs, vegetarian options, such as salads or sandwiches with vegetables, are available in most establishments. Finding vegan or gluten-free dishes may be more difficult, but in large chains, they are usually marked on the menu. With Halal dishes, the situation is more complex, and their availability is best verified directly on-site. The price range varies: coffee with pastries will cost €7-€12, a quick lunch — €15-€20, and a full dinner in a restaurant — from €30 and up. Most establishments operate according to the flight schedule, opening early in the morning and closing after the departure of the last aircraft.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Bordeaux is as comfortable as possible, use these proven tips. Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD) is modern and quite straightforward, but proper preparation will help avoid unnecessary stress.

Arrival Time: For international flights outside the Schengen area, it is recommended to arrive 2.5-3 hours before departure. If your flight is domestic or within Schengen, 1.5-2 hours will be sufficient. Keep in mind that during morning peak hours and holiday periods, there may be queues at check-in counters and security checks.

Check-in and Security: The easiest way to save time is to complete online check-in and print or save your boarding pass to your phone in advance. If you are traveling only with hand luggage, you can go straight to security. At security control, be prepared to take all liquids out of your bag in a transparent bag and remove large electronic devices (laptops, tablets).

Seat Selection: Want to admire views of the Atlantic coast or the vineyards of the Aquitaine region? Choose a window seat. If the ability to stretch your legs or leave the cabin quickly after landing is more important to you, your choice is an aisle seat.

Hand Luggage: Remember the standard rules for carrying liquids: they must all be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent resealable bag with a capacity of up to 1 litre. It is forbidden to carry sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances. Be sure to check your airline's rules, as requirements for the weight and dimensions of hand luggage may differ.

Connecting Passengers: If you have a connecting flight in Bordeaux, follow the "Correspondances" (Connections) signs. Usually, there is a dedicated corridor for transit passengers. Clarify when checking in for your first flight whether your luggage will be transferred automatically to your final destination. The airport is not very large, so transfers here are usually quick.

Customs Control: Since France is part of the EU, when entering from countries outside the European Union, you will have to pass through customs. Follow the green channel if you have nothing to declare, or the red one if you are carrying goods exceeding established limits (for example, on restricted items). The import of meat and dairy products from countries outside the EU is restricted.

Saving Time and Money: Book a transfer to the city online in advance — this can be cheaper than taking a taxi on the spot. Public transport, such as the shuttle bus, is also a cost-effective alternative. Bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it at drinking fountains after passing security control to avoid spending money on expensive drinks.

In Case of Flight Delay: First of all, contact your airline representative for information. According to European regulations, for long delays, you may be provided with vouchers for food and drinks. The airport has cafes, shops, and free Wi-Fi to help pass the waiting time.