Bellegarde Airport

Bellegarde Airport (Aéroport de Limoges-Bellegarde) stands out for its compactness and convenience for passengers. The main feature of the terminal is the absence of queues and the incredibly fast completion of all pre-flight formalities, which is especially valuable for travelers with children or a tight schedule.

Among the airport's advantages, one can highlight the spacious and affordable parking located literally two steps from the terminal entrance. Thanks to the small size of the building, navigation here is intuitively clear, and the friendly staff is always ready to assist. Furthermore, the airport serves as an excellent starting point for trips not only around Limousin but also to the neighboring Dordogne region, known for its gastronomy and caves.

Below you will find contact information for Limoges-Bellegarde Airport (LIG), which will help you plan your trip and orient yourself upon arrival.

• Official Website: www.aeroportlimoges.com
• Information Desk Phone: +33 5 55 43 30 30
• Address: 81 Avenue de l'Aéroport, 87100 Limoges, France
• Email: contact@aeroportlimoges.com
• Social Media: Current links to the airport's official social media pages can typically be found on their website.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of lost or damaged luggage, you must first contact your airline's representative office. You may also contact the baggage tracing service at the airport.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance and answers to general questions, you may use the main airport information desk phone number.

Bellegarde Airport (LIG) is located just 8 km west of the center of Limoges, so getting there is quite simple and does not take much time. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose one of several convenient methods.

The most economical option is public transport. Although there is no direct express to the airport, one can use city buses. Routes and their numbers may change, so before your trip, it is highly recommended to check the current schedule on the official website of the Limoges transport company (STCL). A bus trip usually takes about 30-40 minutes, excluding waiting time or potential transfers. This method is ideal for travelers without large luggage.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the airport is, undoubtedly, by taxi or pre-booked transfer. The trip from the city center will take only 15-20 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Taxi stands can be found at key points in the city, and a car can easily be called by phone. The cost will be significantly higher than the bus, but this option guarantees arrival at the required time without unnecessary hassle, which is especially valuable for early flights.

For those who value independence and plan to explore the picturesque surroundings of France, an excellent solution would be traveling by rental car. The route from the city center is simple and well-marked with signs; the main road is the N141 highway. Bellegarde Airport has several parking lots designed for both short-term and long-term parking, which is very convenient for those arriving in their own or rented vehicles.

If you are looking for alternative routes or a wider choice of flights, it is worth considering other airports in the region. The nearest ones are: Périgueux Airport (PGX) approximately 79 km away, Laroche Airport (BVE) at 94 km, and Poitiers-Biard Airport (PIS) at 105 km. Slightly further away are Roumanière Airport (EGC) and Aurillac Airport (AUR) at a distance of 126 km and 145 km respectively.

Bellegarde Airport (LIG), serving Limoges and its surroundings, represents a compact and convenient aviation hub. Its main advantage for travelers is a simple and clear structure that minimizes stress and the time spent on pre-flight formalities.

The airport consists of one passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. Thanks to this, you do not have to worry about transferring between different buildings — all services and zones are under one roof, within walking distance of each other. The terminal layout is intuitively clear: upon entering, you immediately find yourself in the general area where check-in counters and car rental points are located.

The departure zone is located after passing security control. It is small but comfortable. The arrival zone is located in another part of the building and includes the baggage claim belt and customs control. Navigation through the terminal will not cause difficulties: there are clear signs in French and English everywhere.

Check-in and security screening at Bellegarde Airport usually take significantly less time than in major international hubs. Typically, even at peak moments, all procedures take no more than 30-40 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before the departure of an international flight to check in luggage and pass all formalities without haste.

The history of Limoges-Bellegarde Airport (LIG) is a story of the region's desire for development and openness. The airport was officially opened in 1970 to replace the old Limoges-Feytiat airfield and provide the city of Limoges and the entire Limousin region with a modern air gateway. From the very beginning, its main task was to improve transport accessibility and stimulate economic activity.

The first decades of the airport's operation were dedicated to establishing stable air connections, primarily with Paris. An important moment in history was the assignment of its current name, Limoges-Bellegarde Airport, in 1989. This emphasized its regional significance and strengthened the identity of the air harbor.

A key stage in development was the large-scale modernization at the turn of the century. In 1999, the runway was reconstructed and extended to 2,500 meters. This allowed the airport to accept larger aircraft, such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320, opening doors for international and low-cost airlines. This step was decisive for attracting tourist flows from the UK and other European countries.

The logical continuation of modernization was the construction of a new passenger terminal, which was put into operation in 2005. The modern and functional building significantly increased throughput and the level of comfort for passengers, turning the airport into a modern transport hub that fully meets European standards.

One interesting fact: the airport is located on a plateau, which ensures favorable meteorological conditions for flights throughout the year. Today, Limoges-Bellegarde Airport is an important economic and tourism asset for France, symbolizing the successful integration of the region into the wider European space.

Limoges-Bellegarde Airport (LIG) is a modern and compact airport where all conditions are created for a comfortable wait for your flight. A full range of necessary services is available to passengers so that the time before departure passes pleasantly and without worry.

For those wishing to have a snack or drink coffee, a bar-restaurant operates in the terminal, offering various snacks, hot dishes, and beverages. Here you can also find a shop selling souvenirs, press, and travel essentials. In the departure zone, there is a duty-free shop with an assortment of perfumes, specialty beverages, and local delicacies.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected or work while waiting for your plane. Special outlets are provided for charging electronic devices. Passengers who value enhanced comfort can use the services of the VIP Lounge, where one can relax, work, or hold a business meeting in a quiet setting.

ATMs for cash withdrawal are installed in the public area of the airport. A currency exchange point may also be available, but it is recommended to check its operating hours in advance. In case of necessity, airport staff are ready to provide first aid.

For travelers with children, mother and child rooms with changing tables are provided. Passengers with reduced mobility can count on full support: the terminal is equipped with ramps and special restrooms, and for assistance around the airport, it is recommended to contact the airline or airport service in advance.

If you need to stay overnight, there are several hotels of various price categories in the immediate vicinity of the airport. For business travelers, in addition to the VIP Lounge, services for organizing meetings and negotiations may be available.

Limoges-Bellegarde Airport (LIG) is a small and convenient regional airport, so dining options are compactly concentrated in one place. Do not expect a wide selection of restaurants as in major hubs, but finding a place for a snack or a full lunch before your flight is entirely possible.

The main and, essentially, the only catering establishment is the bar-restaurant "L'Escale". It is located in the main hall of the airport, in the public zone before passing security control. This makes it a convenient place for both those seeing passengers off and for travelers who have time before screening.

Here you can find options for both a quick snack and a more substantial meal. The menu usually includes:

• Quick snacks: sandwiches, panini, pastries, salads.
• Full meals: a "dish of the day" (plat du jour) or other simple hot dishes are often offered.
• Beverages: a full assortment from coffee and tea to soft drinks and other beverages.

Regarding special dietary needs, the choice for vegetarians may be limited to salads and some sandwiches, and vegan, gluten-free, or Halal options are likely to be unavailable. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is more reliable to bring food with you. It is important to remember: after passing security control (in the departure zone), the choice is limited only to vending machines with snacks and drinks.

The operating hours of the "L'Escale" restaurant are directly tied to the flight schedule — it opens before the first morning flight and operates until the departure of the last evening one. Prices here correspond to the standard level for French airports: slightly higher than in the city, but quite reasonable. Thus, for a full lunch, it is better to arrive at the airport in advance and eat before passing screening.

To ensure your journey through Bellegarde Airport (LIG) goes smoothly, take advantage of these tips. The airport serves the city of Limoges and is an important transport hub for the region, so advance preparation will help avoid unnecessary stress. Generally, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours before Schengen zone flights and 3 hours before international flights. This time is sufficient to pass all formalities without haste.

To save time, use online check-in, which is offered by most airlines. This will allow you to go straight to baggage drop or, if you are traveling light, to the security control point. The screening procedure at Bellegarde Airport is standard for France and the EU. Pack all liquids up to 100 ml in a transparent bag in advance and be ready to take laptops and other large electronics out of your hand luggage.

When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your preferences: window seats will offer beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while aisle seats allow you to stand up freely without disturbing neighbors. Regarding hand luggage, remember the strict rules: sharp objects, flammable substances, and liquids in containers larger than 100 ml are prohibited. Always check baggage and hand luggage allowances on your airline's website to avoid extra charges at the airport.

If you have a transfer planned, clarify in advance whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage. For flights within the Schengen zone, additional passport control is not required. However, upon arrival from non-EU countries, you will have to pass customs control. Follow the "green channel" if you have nothing to declare, or the "red channel" if you are carrying goods subject to declaration.

To optimize costs, book parking at the airport online — this is often cheaper. Take an empty water bottle with you to fill it after passing security control and avoid spending on drinks. It is also useful to have a portable charger for gadgets with you, as the number of outlets in waiting halls may be limited.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative for information. Depending on the length of the delay, under European regulations (EU261), you may be entitled to drinks, meals, and in case of a long wait — hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses to claim compensation later.