Saint Gatien Airport

Deauville – Normandie Airport, frequently referred to as Saint-Gatien, is not merely a transport hub, but a true aerial gateway to the prestigious resorts of the "Flowering Coast" of France. This small yet welcoming air harbour possesses a unique charm: it is here that private jets of global celebrities arriving for film festivals often land, alongside specialised flights carrying elite racehorses. Instead of endless corridors and the bustle of giant hubs, passengers are greeted by a tranquil atmosphere and views of the Norman fields, setting the mood for relaxation from the very first minutes after landing.

The main advantage of Saint-Gatien Airport is its privacy and efficiency. Thanks to the compact size of the terminal, all procedures — from check-in to boarding — are completed as quickly as possible, which is particularly appreciated by tourists arriving for the weekend. There are virtually no queues here, and the journey from the aircraft steps to the city exit takes mere minutes, allowing you to save precious holiday time.

The airport's location makes it an ideal starting point for travelling around Normandy. It is situated in the "Golden Triangle" between luxurious Deauville, picturesque Trouville, and charming Honfleur. Furthermore, Saint-Gatien boasts a unique specialisation: it is one of Europe's leading airports for the transport of thoroughbred horses, highlighting the region's status as a centre for equestrian sports. Convenient and affordable parking is available right at the terminal for passengers, making this airport an excellent alternative to the busy Parisian air hubs for residents and guests of the region.

Below you will find contact information for Deauville – Saint-Gatien Airport (DOL), which serves the resort town of Deauville and its surroundings in Normandy, France.

• Official Website: www.deauville.aeroport.fr
• Information Desk Phone: +33 2 31 65 65 65
• Airport Address: Aéroport de Deauville - Normandie, 14130 Saint-Gatien-des-Bois, France
• Email: For general enquiries, you can use the feedback form on the official website or the address contact@deauville.aeroport.fr.
• Social Media: The airport maintains official pages on social networks. You will find links to them on the main page of their website.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of loss or damage to checked baggage, you must immediately contact your airline's Lost & Found counter at the airport. If you have left personal items in the terminal building, please contact the airport information desk.
• Passenger Support Service: For all questions related to your stay at the airport, flight schedules, and services, you may contact the main information desk number.

Saint-Gatien Airport (DOL) is located very close to the resort of Deauville, approximately 7-8 km from its centre, making the journey there quick and convenient. The choice of transport depends on your budget, time, and preferences. Travelling by taxi or a pre-booked transfer is the simplest and fastest method. The trip from the city centre will take just 10-15 minutes, although this is also the most expensive option, especially during the high season. We recommend confirming the cost with the driver before starting the trip.

A more budget-friendly option is public transport. Regional buses from the Bus Verts du Calvados network may connect the airport with nearby towns, including Deauville and Trouville. However, it is important to note that services may be infrequent or seasonal. We strongly recommend checking the current timetable on the operator's official website in advance to avoid long waits. There is no direct rail or metro connection to the airport.

For those planning to actively travel around Normandy, renting a car is an excellent solution. Several international and local car rental companies operate within the Saint-Gatien airport terminal. This will allow you to be independent of public transport schedules and explore the picturesque corners of France with comfort. If you are arriving at the airport in your own or a rented vehicle, convenient parking is available in the immediate vicinity of the terminal building.

Although Deauville Airport is convenient for regional flights, the main flow of international tourists arrives at larger air hubs. If you have not found a direct flight, consider options arriving at the neighbouring Carpiquet Airport in Caen or at major Parisian airports, such as Orly or Beauvais-Tillé, from where you can reach Deauville by train or bus.

Deauville – Saint-Gatien Airport (DOL) is a very compact and convenient regional airport serving the eponymous resort and its surroundings. Its structure is extremely simple, making navigation intuitively clear even for first-time visitors.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, which handles all flights — both domestic and international. There is no division into multiple buildings, so you do not need to worry about transferring between terminals. All zones are under one roof, within walking distance of each other.

The terminal layout is logical and straightforward:

• The Departure Zone is located in one part of the building. Immediately at the entrance are the check-in counters, followed by the security checkpoint. After passing inspection, passengers enter a small waiting lounge with access to the boarding gates.
• The Arrival Zone occupies the other part of the terminal. After disembarking from the aircraft, passengers proceed to the baggage claim hall. Here you will also find car rental desks and the exit to the public area, where you can meet arrivals or take a taxi.

Due to the small size of the airport and the limited number of flights, completing all pre-flight formalities, such as check-in and security screening, usually takes significantly less time than in major airports. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive 1.5–2 hours before departure to complete all procedures without rushing. Navigating the terminal will not cause difficulties — all key points are well marked with signs, and it is practically impossible to get lost here.

The history of Deauville – Saint-Gatien Airport (DOL) is inextricably linked with the development of the resort itself. The air harbour was opened in 1931 to provide convenient access to the fashionable beaches and luxury leisure venues of Deauville for affluent visitors from across Europe. Initially, it was a small airfield serving private aircraft and a few commercial flights.

The airport received a significant boost in development in the second half of the 20th century. A key moment was the large-scale reconstruction in 1991, during which a new modern terminal was built, and the runway was extended. This allowed Saint-Gatien to accommodate popular medium-haul aircraft, such as the Boeing 737, and launch charter programmes, mainly from the UK and other European countries.

The next important stage of modernisation occurred in 2008, when the runway was again widened and extended to 2,550 metres. This achievement opened the way for the airport to receive long-haul liners, strengthening its status as an international gateway to the Normandy region, part of France. In connection with this, the airport received its modern name — Deauville-Normandie Airport.

Among the interesting facts about the airport is its special role during the annual American Film Festival. On these days, the terminal receives dozens of private jets carrying world cinema stars. Furthermore, Saint-Gatien is one of the main centres in Europe for the air transport of thoroughbred horses. Unique logistics allow for the safe transport of elite racehorses from the numerous stud farms of Normandy to locations all over the world.

Saint-Gatien Airport (DOL), serving Deauville and the surrounding area, is a compact and convenient transport hub. Despite its small size, it provides passengers with all the essential services necessary for a comfortable start or end to a journey through Normandy.

Dining and Shopping. The terminal houses a café-restaurant where you can have a snack, drink coffee, or purchase light refreshments before your flight. The selection includes sandwiches, pastries, and beverages. There is also a small shop offering travel goods, souvenirs, and press.

Comfort and Connectivity. Free Wi-Fi is available for passengers throughout the airport. Special stands and sockets are provided in the waiting lounges for charging electronic devices. There are no dedicated VIP lounges, but the general waiting areas are quite comfortable. Business class passengers should check for privilege information directly with their airline.

Financial and Other Services. An ATM for cash withdrawals can be found in the terminal building. Full banking branches and currency exchange points may be absent, so it is recommended to arrange currency exchange in advance. In case of necessity, airport staff are ready to provide first aid.

Services for Special Categories of Passengers. Mother and child rooms with changing tables are equipped for travellers with small children. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with all necessary assistance — from parking to boarding the aircraft. To receive this service, it is recommended to notify the airline of your needs no later than 48 hours before departure.

Accommodation and Business. There are no hotels within the airport territory, but many accommodation options can be found in nearby towns such as Deauville and Honfleur. Specialised conference halls or business centres are not provided at Saint-Gatien Airport.

Deauville-Normandie Airport (DOL), being a compact regional air terminal, offers basic but convenient dining options for passengers. It is important to understand that the selection here does not compare with the assortment of large international hubs, but everything necessary for a comfortable wait for your flight is available in the single terminal.

The main dining point in the airport is the café, located in the public hall before the security zone (landside), making it accessible to both departing passengers and those seeing them off. It is a versatile place where you can quickly have a coffee with fresh pastries or a full lunch. The menu typically features sandwiches with various fillings, salads, snacks, as well as hot and cold beverages.

Although there are no specialised restaurants with local cuisine here, notes of Norman flair can be found in the café menu, such as sandwiches with local cheeses. For passengers with special dietary needs, the choice is limited. Vegetarian options (for example, a cheese and vegetable sandwich) are easy to find, but finding certified gluten-free, vegan, or Halal dishes will be difficult. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is safer to bring food with you.

The café's opening hours depend directly on the flight schedule — it opens before the first flights and operates until the departure of the last one. Prices are typical for airports, meaning slightly higher than in the city. After passing security control (airside), the choice is usually limited to vending machines, so it is better to have a substantial meal beforehand in the general hall.

Deauville — Saint-Gatien Airport is a compact and convenient gateway to Normandy. To ensure your journey through this airport goes as smoothly as possible, please consider our advice.

Arrival Time at the Airport: Despite being a small regional airport, it can be busy during peak season. We recommend arriving 2 hours before departure for flights within France and Schengen countries, and 2.5-3 hours before international flights outside the Schengen area. This time will be sufficient to complete all formalities without rushing.

Check-in and Security: Most airlines offer online check-in, which saves time. If you are travelling only with hand luggage, you can proceed directly to the security checkpoint. Procedures here are standard but usually faster than in major hubs. Prepare liquids (in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag) and large electronic devices for inspection in advance.

Seat Selection: If you wish to enjoy views of the Normandy coast during take-off or landing, choose a window seat. For greater comfort and the ability to leave the cabin quickly after landing, an aisle seat is more suitable.

Hand Luggage Rules: Check weight and dimension limits with your airline. Sharp objects, weapons, and liquids in containers larger than 100 ml are prohibited in hand luggage. If you are carrying local delicacies as gifts, such as Camembert cheese or local beverages, ensure they are properly packed and comply with the rules (soft cheeses are often classified as liquids).

Passengers with Connections: The airport in Deauville is rarely used as a transit hub. Most flights are direct. If you do have a connection planned, check with the airline whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage.

Customs Control: When arriving from countries outside the EU, you will need to pass customs control. Follow the green channel if you have nothing to declare, or the red channel if you have goods subject to declaration. Please be mindful of allowances for restricted items such as tobacco.

Saving Time and Money: Book a taxi or transfer in advance, as public transport is infrequent. The airport has a limited selection of cafés, so you may wish to bring a light snack with you to avoid extra costs.

In Case of Flight Delay: For long delays (more than 2-3 hours), the airline, according to European regulations, is obliged to provide you with vouchers for food and drinks. All current information regarding flight status will be on the departure boards and the airport website. Remain calm and seek assistance from your airline representatives.