Carpiquet Airport

Caen-Carpiquet Airport (CFR) is the main air gateway to Normandy, conveniently located for travelers eager to explore the historical riches of this region. As a key transport hub for the Calvados department, it offers both business travelers and tourists quick access to the famous Allied D-Day landing beaches, the picturesque coastline, and, of course, the city of Caen itself. Despite its compact size, the airport plays an important role in the transport system of northern France, constantly increasing passenger traffic and expanding its flight network.

Although Caen-Carpiquet is a small airport by international standards, it possesses several advantages that travelers appreciate. Its compactness and clear navigation allow passengers to go through all pre-flight formalities without unnecessary stress or queues, which is especially important for tourists with children and those with limited time. The airport is located just a 10-minute drive from the city centre, and it can be reached by taxi or public transport — bus route No. 3 will take you to the centre of Caen in approximately 30 minutes. Passengers have access to free and unlimited Wi-Fi throughout the terminal, as well as a cozy restaurant and café located on the first floor, where you can have a snack while waiting for your flight.

Below you will find current contact information for Carpiquet Airport (CFR), serving the city of Caen.

• Official Website: www.caen.aeroport.fr. Here you will find flight schedules, information about services, and the latest news.
• Information Desk Phone: +33 (0)2 31 71 20 10. You can obtain general information about airport operations at this number.
• Airport Address: Route de Caumont, 14650 Carpiquet, France.
• Email: For most inquiries, it is recommended to use the contact form on the official website. For general questions, you can use the address accueil@caen.aeroport.fr.
• Social Media: The airport actively maintains a Facebook page where it publishes operational updates and news.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you must contact your airline's Lost & Found service or their ground representative at the airport directly. Contacts are usually listed on your boarding pass or the carrier's website.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For questions related to your journey, please contact the information desk in the airport terminal or call the general information phone number.

Carpiquet Airport (CFR) is located just a few kilometres west of the centre of Caen, making the journey there quick and convenient. You can reach the terminal in several ways, choosing the one that best suits your budget and comfort level.

Public Transport. The most affordable option is the bus. The Liane 3 route of the Twisto transport network directly connects the city centre (for example, stops Tour Leroy or Théâtre) with the airport. The trip takes approximately 30-40 minutes depending on the departure point and traffic conditions. This is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travelers without bulky luggage.

Taxi and Transfer. For those who value speed and comfort, a taxi is the ideal solution. A car ride from the centre of Caen to the airport will take just 15-20 minutes. This is the fastest way to get to the terminal, especially if you are traveling with children or a large number of suitcases. The cost will be significantly higher than a bus ticket, but the comfort justifies the expense. You can also book a private transfer service in advance.

Car Rental and Parking. If you plan to explore the picturesque corners of Normandy and other regions of France, renting a car will be the best choice. Counters of several international rental companies operate at Carpiquet Airport. The road from the centre by car is simple and convenient, mostly along the ring road. For those arriving in their own or rented car, both short-term and long-term parking facilities are provided on the airport grounds.

Although Carpiquet Airport is conveniently located, it is worth knowing about other air havens in relative proximity. For example, Saint-Gatien Airport (DOL) in Deauville is approximately 50 km away. Further away, but still accessible, are Pleurtuit Airport (DNR) and Rennes Airport (RNS). You can also reach the Channel Islands from the region using Jersey Airport (JER) or Alderney Airport (ACI).

Carpiquet Airport (CFR) is a compact and modern regional airport with a structure that is extremely simple and clear for travelers. You won't have to worry about complex navigation, as the airport consists of one passenger terminal serving all domestic and international flights.

The terminal layout is very logical. Upon entry, you find yourself in the general hall where the check-in counters and main services are located. The departure and arrival zones are situated in the same building, in close proximity to each other. Thanks to the small size of the terminal, moving between zones takes only a few minutes, and you will not have to cover long distances.

The Departure Zone is located to the left of the main entrance. After checking in for the flight, passengers pass through a single security control point, followed by a small but comfortable waiting lounge with boarding gates. The Arrival Zone is located in the right part of the terminal. It includes the baggage claim hall and customs control. The exit from the arrival zone leads directly into the main hall, where you can meet arriving passengers or order a taxi.

Completing all formalities at Carpiquet Airport generally does not take much time. In standard situations, check-in and security screening take about 20-30 minutes. However, during peak periods, such as the tourist season or holidays, small queues may arise. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5 hours before domestic flights and 2 hours before international flights.

For convenient navigation throughout the terminal, clear signs in French and English are installed everywhere. It is practically impossible to get lost here, as all key points — from the entrance to the boarding gate — are within direct line of sight. If you have questions, staff at the information desk in the main hall are always ready to help.

The history of Carpiquet Airport (CFR) is inextricably linked with key events of the 20th century. Its story began in the 1930s, when the decision was made to build an airfield to serve the city of Caen. The official opening took place in 1939, and initially, it had a dual purpose — civil and military, serving as a base for the French Air Force.

The most dramatic page in the airport's history was written during World War II. After the occupation of France, it was captured and significantly fortified by German troops, becoming an important Luftwaffe airbase. In June-July 1944, following the Allied landings in Normandy, some of the fiercest battles took place for the airfield. During Operation Charnwood, Canadian and British troops were able to retake Carpiquet at the cost of heavy casualties, which became a significant tactical success in the Battle for Caen.

After the war, the destroyed airfield was restored and completely transferred to civil administration. In the post-war decades, it systematically developed as a regional transport hub. A significant stage of modernization occurred in the early 2000s, when a new modern terminal was built, capable of handling the growing passenger traffic. This was due, in part, to the increase in the number of tourists visiting memorial sites and landing beaches in Normandy.

Interesting fact: despite its modern appearance, reminders of its military past can still be found in the area adjacent to the airport. Today, Carpiquet Airport is not only a gateway to Normandy for tourists and business travelers but also a living historical monument symbolizing the resilience and rebirth of the region after the devastating events of the war.

Carpiquet Airport (CFR) offers its passengers all the necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact dimensions, the terminal is well-equipped and thoughtfully designed for traveler convenience.

In the airport building, you will find a café and restaurant where you can have a snack, drink coffee, or have a full lunch before departure. There is also a small shop where you can buy travel essentials, souvenirs, and newspapers. Free Wi-Fi is available to all passengers within the terminal, and charging stations for electronic devices are provided in the waiting areas.

For business travelers, the airport offers business centre services and conference room rentals, allowing for efficient use of time before departure. Passengers preferring enhanced comfort can utilize the VIP lounge services.

The airport is fully adapted to serve passengers with reduced mobility and provides special assistance upon prior request. Families with small children can use the mother and child room. Although there is no dedicated medical centre in the airport, in case first aid is needed, one should contact the information desk or any staff member. Additionally, ATMs for cash withdrawal are installed in the terminal. There is no hotel directly inside the airport building, but several hotels are located in the immediate vicinity, offering convenient options for overnight stays.

Carpiquet Airport (CFR), being a compact regional airport, offers several convenient dining options, mostly concentrated in the public area of the terminal. The selection here is not as large as in major hubs, but it is quite sufficient for a comfortable snack before departure.

The main establishment at the airport is the café-restaurant Le Bellini. It is located in the main hall on the ground floor, in the landside zone (before passing security control), making it accessible to both passengers and those seeing them off. Here you can quickly drink coffee with fresh pastries or have a full lunch. The menu usually includes sandwiches, salads, several hot dishes of the day, and desserts. Sometimes you can also find Normandy specialties, for example, pastries with local apples.

For those looking for a quick snack, ready-made sandwiches and appetizers can always be found at Le Bellini. In addition, vending machines offering snacks, sweets, and soft drinks are installed in various parts of the terminal. This is a convenient option if you are in a hurry or arrive at the airport during hours when the café might be closed.

Regarding special dietary requests, possibilities are limited. As a rule, you can find basic vegetarian options, such as a salad or a cheese and vegetable sandwich. However, finding certified gluten-free, vegan, or halal dishes may be challenging. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it would be safer to bring food with you.

Prices in Carpiquet Airport establishments can be described as average for European airports. The opening hours of the Le Bellini restaurant are usually tied to the flight schedule, but it is always better to check current information on the official airport website on the eve of your trip.

Planning a trip through Carpiquet Airport in the city of Caen? To ensure your journey through France or Europe starts smoothly, use our tips. This small regional airport serves mainly domestic and European flights, making it quite convenient for passengers.

Arrival time at the airport. Despite the airport's compact size, it is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before your flight departure. This time will be sufficient to check in luggage, pass security control, and reach the boarding gate without rushing.

Check-in and security control. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight if your airline provides this option. This will allow you to go straight to baggage drop-off or, if you are traveling light, to the security checkpoint. Queues here are usually shorter than in major hubs, but the rules are standard: prepare liquids (in containers up to 100 ml) in advance and remove electronics from your hand luggage.

Seat selection on the plane. If you have the opportunity to select a seat during check-in, consider your preferences. Window seats offer beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while aisle seats provide more legroom and the ability to stand up freely without disturbing neighbors.

Hand luggage rules. Standard EU restrictions apply here as well. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. Liquids can only be carried in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Be sure to check the weight and dimension limits for hand luggage on your airline's website to avoid extra charges at the airport.

Passengers with transfers. Carpiquet Airport is a small regional hub, and transit flights through it are not very common. If you have a planned transfer, it is strongly recommended to check the entire procedure with your airline in advance. Find out if your luggage will be re-checked automatically and if you will need to leave the transit zone to undergo security control again.

Customs control. If you are arriving from a country outside the Schengen Area, you will have to pass passport control. For passengers arriving from EU countries, customs inspection is usually limited to passing through the "green" channel if you have nothing to declare.

Saving time and money. Book a transfer from the airport or study the public transport schedule in advance. To avoid overpaying for water, take an empty bottle with you and fill it at a drinking fountain after passing security control. Traveling with only hand luggage will also save you both time and money.

In case of flight delay. If your flight is delayed, contact a representative of your airline. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with vouchers for food or drinks. Keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses — they may be needed to obtain compensation.