Metz-Nancy-Lorraine Airport

Metz-Nancy-Lorraine Airport is not just a transport hub, but a cozy air gateway to one of France's most picturesque regions. Located amidst the green fields of Lorraine, this compact airport offers travellers a rare opportunity to avoid the hustle and bustle of the giant hubs in Paris or Frankfurt. Everything here is permeated with an atmosphere of calm and comfort: from quick check-in to an almost home-like welcome, allowing you to begin your acquaintance with French culture immediately upon landing. It is the ideal starting point for those planning to visit both the majestic Metz with its Gothic cathedrals and the elegant Nancy, the capital of Art Nouveau style.

The main feature of Metz-Nancy-Lorraine Airport is its strategic location, equidistant from the region's two main cities. Thanks to this, tourists can flexibly plan their route, choosing where to go first. The terminal is notable for its compactness and intuitive navigation, which minimizes the time spent on formalities.

Among the airport's advantages is its convenient transport accessibility: regular shuttles run to the railway stations of Metz and Nancy, with travel time taking only 30–40 minutes. For those travelling by car, there is a spacious parking lot directly at the terminal. Despite its small size, everything necessary for a comfortable wait is available here: a café, a rest area, and free Wi-Fi, making it an excellent choice for a calm start to a journey through Eastern France.

• Official Airport Website: www.lorraineaeroport.com
• Information Desk Phone: +33 3 87 56 70 00
• Airport Address: Route de Vigny, 57420 Goin, France (25 km from Metz)
• Email: info@lorraineaeroport.com
• Airport Social Media: Current news and updates are published on official Facebook and Instagram pages (search for "Lorraine Aéroport")
• Lost & Found Information: +33 3 87 56 70 78 (Baggage Tracing Service)
• Passenger Support Contacts: Available via the main information phone number or via email

The location of Metz-Nancy-Lorraine Airport in the countryside, roughly halfway between the region's two main cities, makes the logistics quite specific. There is no direct railway connection to the terminal, so the main modes of public transport remain special bus transfers and cars.

Shuttle Buses (Navette)

The most popular and budget-friendly way to get to the airport is to use the official shuttles. The schedule of these buses is designed to correspond with flight departure and arrival times.

• Route: Buses depart from Metz Railway Station (Gare de Metz-Ville) and Nancy Railway Station (Gare de Nancy-Ville).
• Travel Time: The trip from the centre of Metz takes about 30 minutes (distance ~25 km), and from Nancy about 40 minutes.
• Cost: A one-way ticket costs approximately 8–10 EUR. It is recommended to have cash or buy tickets online in advance, as drivers may not always accept card payments.

Trains and Metro

It is important to note that there is no train station or metro within the airport itself. The nearest high-speed train station is Gare de Lorraine TGV, located a few kilometres from the terminal. Shuttles also run between this station and the airport, but if you are travelling from the centre of Metz, it is more convenient to take the direct bus from the city station than to take a train with a transfer.

Taxi and Transfer

For those who value comfort or are travelling with bulky luggage, a taxi is an excellent solution. The taxi rank is located right outside the arrivals area. Given the distance to the city, the trip will not be cheap.

• Estimated Cost: A trip to the centre of Metz will cost approximately 50–70 EUR during the day. At night and on Sundays, tariffs are higher (about 70–90 EUR).
• Recommendation: Popular taxi apps operate in the region, but waiting times can be long due to the airport's remote location. It is more reliable to book a transfer in advance.

Car Rental

Counters of international rental agencies (such as Avis, Europcar, Hertz) are located in the arrivals hall. This is an ideal option if you plan to travel through the picturesque villages of Lorraine. The airport is located next to the regional road D910 and close to the A31 motorway, ensuring quick exit in any direction.

Parking

For travellers with their own cars, there is a spacious open car park located within walking distance of the terminal. Rates here are generally more democratic than in large capital hubs. The first 20 minutes of parking are often free, which is convenient for dropping off passengers. Long-term parking (for a week) can cost around 40–50 EUR.

Alternative Airports Nearby

If tickets to Metz are sold out or the flight schedule does not suit you, you can consider flying into neighbouring transport hubs. Thanks to the developed railway network and quality roads, getting from them to Metz is not difficult.

• Luxembourg Airport (LUX) — located just 72 km away. This is a popular alternative with a large number of international flights.
• Strasbourg Airport (SXB) — located 113 km away, convenient for those wishing to combine a trip to Alsace and Lorraine.
• Frankfurt-Hahn (HHN) — a well-known hub for low-cost carriers, located 130 km away.
• Baden Airpark (FKB) — located in Germany, approximately 137 km from Metz.
• Mannheim Airport (MHG) — a small airport 174 km away, serving mainly domestic and business flights.

The structure of Metz-Nancy-Lorraine Airport (ETZ) is characterized by extreme simplicity and functionality, which is a huge plus for travellers who dislike long walks and confusing corridors. The airport complex consists of a single passenger terminal. There is no need to use shuttles or moving walkways to move between sectors — all infrastructure is concentrated under one roof, making navigation intuitive even for those visiting for the first time.

Terminal Layout and Service Zones

The terminal is a compact single-storey building divided into two main wings: the departure zone and the arrival zone. All processes, from check-in to boarding, take place on one level (the ground floor), which is especially convenient for passengers with reduced mobility or heavy luggage.

• Departure Zone (Départs): Located on the left side of the building (when viewed from the street entrance). Here you will find a row of check-in counters, which open 2 hours before departure. Immediately following them is the security checkpoint. The boarding gate area is small but cozy, equipped with sufficient seating and basic amenities.
• Arrival Zone (Arrivées): Located on the right side of the terminal. The path from the aircraft stairs to the baggage claim belt takes only a few minutes. Passport control (for flights from non-Schengen countries) is carried out efficiently, directly before the baggage claim area.

Features and Navigation

One of the characteristic features of this regional airport is the absence of jet bridges. Boarding and disembarking are usually done on foot across the tarmac: aircraft park in close proximity to the terminal exit. This gives the journey a special charm, allowing you to breathe the fresh air of Lorraine immediately upon landing.

Inside the terminal, in the public area (before security), travellers can find an information desk, a small bistro café for a snack, and a newsstand. Signs are duplicated in English, but it is practically impossible to get lost here: the entrance, check-in counters, and security area are in direct line of sight of each other.

Processing Times

Due to the low passenger traffic, procedures at Metz-Nancy Airport are much faster than in major hubs. Queues for check-in and security rarely occur and move quickly.

• Check-in and Baggage Drop: Takes on average 10–15 minutes.
• Security Check: Usually takes no more than 5–10 minutes.
• Arrival Time Recommendation: The airport administration advises arriving 1.5–2 hours before the departure time indicated on your ticket. This is more than enough time to calmly drop off luggage, have a coffee, and proceed to the boarding gate without rushing.

The history of Metz-Nancy-Lorraine Airport (ETZ) began relatively recently, at the end of the 20th century. The decision to build it was an important strategic step for the region: the authorities needed a unified, modern civil airport capable of replacing the outdated and limited airfields in Metz-Frescaty and Nancy-Essey. The new hub was intended to become a symbol of unification and economic growth for Lorraine.

The official opening of the airport took place on October 28, 1991. The first commercial flight departed from here to Marseille, marking a new era of transport accessibility for local residents. From the very beginning, the airport was designed with durability in mind: its 3,050-metre runway is capable of accommodating even large liners, which was a rare luxury for regional ports of that time.

A significant turning point in the history of ETZ was 2007. With the launch of the LGV Est high-speed railway line connecting the region with Paris, the need for short flights to the French capital dropped sharply. This forced the airport management to radically revise its development strategy. The focus shifted from domestic business flights to charter flights and regular routes to sunny resorts in the Mediterranean and North Africa, which allowed passenger traffic to be maintained.

Key Stages and Renovations

During its existence, the airport has gone through several stages of modernization to meet international standards of safety and comfort.

• 2016: One of the most significant reconstructions in the airport's history. For the first time, the terminal was completely closed to passengers for several weeks (from February to April). During this time, a complete renewal of the runway surface was carried out, requiring investments of several million euros. This extended the service life of the runway by at least another 15–20 years.
• Development of Cargo Transportation: Thanks to its 24/7 operation and convenient location, the airport has become an important logistics hub. In various years, major postal and courier services have been based here, using the night time for cargo transport.

Interesting Facts

Despite its modest size, Metz-Nancy-Lorraine has several curious features that distinguish it from other French airports.

• Airport "in the fields": The complex was built literally in an open field, on the territory of the agricultural commune of Goin. During construction, the difficult terrain and soils characteristic of the Lorraine countryside had to be taken into account.
• Geographical Compromise: The site for construction was chosen with a ruler on a map — it is located almost perfectly equidistant from the two main rival cities of the region, Metz and Nancy, so that no one would be offended and access would be equally convenient for everyone.
• Meeting Giants: Thanks to the long runway, the airport was used as a training base for pilots of wide-body aircraft and even hosted the supersonic "Concorde" as part of special tours before its retirement.

The infrastructure of Metz-Nancy-Lorraine Airport corresponds to its status as a compact regional hub. You will not find endless galleries with boutiques or food courts typical of capital hubs here. However, passengers have access to a basic set of services necessary for a comfortable wait for their flight. The compactness of the terminal works in favour of travellers: all amenities are within sight, literally a few steps from each other.

Restaurants and Shops

The dining and retail area in the airport is small but functional. The main focus is on ensuring passengers can have a snack before departure or buy last-minute souvenirs.

• Café-Bar: A bar-restaurant operates in the public area of the terminal. Here you can order coffee, soft drinks, sandwiches, salads, or the hot dish of the day. This is a popular spot not only for passengers but also for those seeing them off. The windows offer a view of the airfield.
• Shop (Duty Free / Travel Retail): Located in the departure zone after security check. The assortment includes perfumes, cosmetics, press, and tobacco products. Special attention should be paid to stands with regional products. Lorraine is famous for its treats, so you can often buy Mirabelle plum jams, local sweets, and liqueurs here — an excellent option for a gift.

Connectivity and Finance

Staying connected at ETZ is easy and convenient. The airport provides access to digital services so passengers can work or entertain themselves while waiting for boarding.

• Wi-Fi: Free unlimited Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. Connection usually does not require complex registration, allowing you to quickly check email or download a boarding pass.
• Charging Stations: In the waiting hall, there is a limited number of sockets for charging mobile devices and laptops. It is recommended to charge gadgets in advance or carry a power bank, as free slots may be occupied during peak hours.
• ATMs: An ATM is installed in the main hall of the terminal for withdrawing cash in Euros. There are no full-service currency exchange points with a wide selection of currencies at the airport, so it is recommended to take care of money exchange in advance while in the city.

Services for Families with Children and Passengers with Reduced Mobility

Despite its small size, the airport strives to ensure an accessible environment for all categories of travellers.

• Passengers with Children: Restrooms are equipped with baby changing areas. Thanks to the calm atmosphere and lack of crowds, it is much easier for parents with small children to monitor their safety here than in large airports.
• Passengers with Disabilities: The terminal is entirely single-storey, eliminating the need for elevators or escalators to move between the entrance and the boarding area. To receive assistance (escort, wheelchair), it is necessary to notify the airline at least 48 hours before departure. Special parking spaces for disabled persons are located as close to the entrance as possible.

Hotels and Accommodation

It is important to note that there are no hotels on the airport territory itself or within walking distance. The air terminal is located in the countryside, so overnight stays in the terminal are not provided (it closes at night after the last flight is serviced).

• Nearest Options: The nearest hotels are located within a radius of 10–15 km, in neighbouring small towns such as Pont-à-Mousson or Louvigny.
• Metz and Nancy: Most tourists prefer to stay directly in the major cities — Metz or Nancy, from where the airport can be reached by shuttle in 30–40 minutes.

Business Services

For business travellers, infrastructure is limited. There are generally no separate business lounges of major airline alliances in the departure zone, as the airport focuses on short regional and charter flights. However, the airport offers the possibility to rent small conference rooms for meetings or negotiations right in the terminal building (service upon request from the administration). Fast-track services for business aviation are also available.

The gastronomic opportunities at Metz-Nancy-Lorraine Airport (ETZ) fully correspond to its intimate format. Here you will not find a wide selection of chain fast foods or haute cuisine typical of metropolises. However, passengers can count on quality French service and fresh products, allowing for a comfortable snack before departure.

Public Zone (Landside) — for a Full Meal

The main establishment of the airport is located in the main hall of the terminal, before security control. This is a bar-restaurant that serves as a centre of attraction for both departing passengers and those seeing them off. The establishment operates in a brasserie format and offers a relaxed atmosphere with a panoramic view of the runway.

• Menu: You can order a full lunch here. The assortment usually includes hot dishes of the day (plat du jour), fresh salads, sandwiches, and soups.
• Local Specialties: Being in the heart of Lorraine, it is definitely worth trying the famous Quiche Lorraine — an open pie with bacon and cream filling. For dessert, we recommend a tartlet with Mirabelle plum (a local variety of plum which is the gastronomic symbol of the region).
• Opening Hours: The restaurant opens approximately 2 hours before the first departure and closes after the last flight departs.

Departure Zone (Airside) — for a Quick Snack

After passing through security, the choice becomes more modest. In the "sterile" waiting area, a small snack bar or kiosk operates. This place is ideal for those who are in a hurry or want to take something on board.

• Assortment: Coffee, tea, soft drinks, bottled water, croissants, packaged sandwiches, and chocolate bars.
• Recommendation: If you plan to eat a substantial meal, it is better to do so in the restaurant in the public zone before passing control, as hot food may not be available in the departure zone.

Dietary Needs and Prices

Since the choice of food outlets is limited, passengers with strict dietary preferences should be attentive.

• Vegetarians and Vegans: The restaurant menu usually has vegetable salads or cheese sandwiches (for vegetarians). Vegan and gluten-free options are less common and may be limited to fruit slices or packaged snacks. It is recommended to check the ingredients with the staff or bring a snack with you.
• Halal: A specialized Halal menu is generally not available, but one can always choose fish dishes or vegetarian options. Note that the traditional Quiche Lorraine contains pork (bacon).
• Average Bill: Prices correspond to the average level of French regional airports. A cup of coffee will cost approximately 2.50–4 EUR, a sandwich 5–7 EUR, and a light lunch with a drink 15–20 EUR.

Additionally, vending machines with drinks and snacks are installed in the terminal, operating around the clock to help passengers on night flights or those who arrived at the airport too early.

Travelling through a regional airport has its nuances, which distinguish it favourably from large international hubs. Metz-Nancy-Lorraine Airport is a place where comfort meets simplicity, but knowing a few rules will help make your departure or arrival even more pleasant and trouble-free.

Optimal Arrival Time

Although this airport does not suffer from the endless queues typical of Paris, it is not worth taking risks. It is recommended to arrive at the terminal 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time is quite enough to drop off luggage and pass security control without rushing. Since check-in counters close strictly according to schedule (usually 30–40 minutes before the flight), it is better to have a small buffer of time to calmly drink coffee in the bar overlooking the runway.

Check-in and Security Control

Procedures here are fast but require standard preparation. To speed up the screening process:

• Prepare your boarding pass (digital or printed) and passport in advance.
• All electronic devices (laptops, tablets, large cameras) and bags with liquids should be removed from hand luggage and placed in a separate tray.
• Outerwear, belts, and watches should also be removed in advance.
• Remember that there is only one security zone here, and during the simultaneous departure of several flights, a small accumulation of people may occur.

Seat Selection on the Plane

Since boarding at Metz-Nancy is done on foot across the airfield (without using jet bridges), seat selection can affect the speed of exit.

• For Views: Choose a Window seat. During takeoff and landing, wonderful pastoral views of the green fields of Lorraine, the curves of the Moselle River, and small French villages open up.
• For Speed: If you are flying on a small regional aircraft, boarding and disembarking often take place through one door. Seats in the front rows will allow you to leave the board among the first and get to passport control faster.

Hand Luggage: What is Allowed and Prohibited

Baggage allowance rules here correspond to general European safety standards, but it is always worth checking the requirements of your specific airline, as low-cost carriers and charters may have strict restrictions on dimensions.

• Liquids: Allowed only in containers up to 100 ml, packed in one transparent resealable bag with a volume of no more than 1 litre.
• Batteries: Power Banks and spare lithium batteries must be carried only in hand luggage. Checking them into hold luggage is strictly prohibited.
• Food: You can bring solid food (sandwiches, fruits, biscuits), but soft cheeses or jams (which the region is famous for) may be considered liquids if their volume exceeds 100 ml.

Recommendations for Transit Passengers

It is important to understand that Metz-Nancy-Lorraine is primarily a point-to-point airport, not a transit hub. There is no special transfer zone here allowing you to change from flight to flight without entering the general area.

• If you have two separate tickets (self-transfer), you will have to collect your luggage, exit to the arrivals hall, and go through check-in and security again.
• Plan for at least 3 hours for such a transfer, as flights here are infrequent, and in case of a delay of the first plane, alternative departure options may not be available until the next day.

Customs Control

Since the airport receives flights from countries outside the EU (for example, charters from Morocco or Algeria), full customs control operates here. When arriving from outside the European Union, remember the limits on the import of tobacco (usually 200 cigarettes) and alcohol. Cash amounts over 10,000 EUR are subject to mandatory declaration. Random baggage checks happen, but staff are usually polite and professional.

How to Save Time and Money

• Transfer: The most economical way to get to the city is the shuttle bus (about 8–10 EUR). A taxi will cost 5–7 times more. Have small cash denominations for paying the fare on the bus, in case the driver's terminal does not work.
• Parking: If you are being dropped off by car, use the right to free parking for the first 20 minutes. This time is enough to unload suitcases and say goodbye at the terminal entrance.
• Water and Food: Prices at the airport are higher than in the city. Bring an empty water bottle (you can fill it after security if there is a fountain, or ask for water in the café) and a light snack bought in advance at a supermarket.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay

Infrastructure for long waits is limited here. If your flight is delayed:

• Know Your Rights: According to EU Regulation No 261/2004, for long delays, you are entitled to drinks, meals, and the opportunity to make two phone calls. Contact the airline representative or the information desk.
• Entertainment: There are no cinemas or gaming zones at the airport, so take care of leisure in advance: download movies or books to your tablet. Free Wi-Fi will help you stay connected, but speed may drop with a large number of users.
• Sockets: Occupy a seat next to a power outlet in advance, as their number in the waiting hall is limited.