Poitiers-Biard Airport

Poitiers-Biard Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a cosy aerial gateway into the heart of the historic Poitou region and the futuristic wonders of the famous Futuroscope park. Forget about endless corridors and the bustle of giant metropolises: here reigns an atmosphere of tranquillity and provincial French charm, allowing you to start your holiday without unnecessary stress. This compact air terminal is seemingly created for those who value their time and wish to be at the centre of events or at a business meeting just a few minutes after landing.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Despite its modest size, Poitiers-Biard Airport possesses a number of undeniable advantages that make it attractive for travellers heading to the Vienne department.

• Exceptional proximity to the city. This is one of the most conveniently located airports in France. The distance to the centre of Poitiers is less than 3 kilometres, allowing you to reach your hotel or attractions in literally 10–15 minutes by taxi.
• No queues. Thanks to the low passenger flow, passing through passport control and baggage reclaim takes mere minutes here. You won't have to spend hours waiting, which is especially valuable after a flight.
• Gateway to Futuroscope. The airport is located in immediate proximity to one of France's main attractions — the high-tech theme park Futuroscope. This makes it an ideal arrival point for family tourists planning to visit the park.
• Convenient parking. A parking zone is located right in front of the terminal. Unlike large hubs, it is always easy to find a free space here, and the rates remain quite reasonable.

• Official website: www.poitiers.aeroport.fr
• Information desk phone: +33 5 49 30 04 60
• Address: Rue du Sous-Lieutenant Collart, 86580 Biard, France
• Email: contact@poitiers.aeroport.fr
• Social Media: The airport is present on platforms such as Facebook, where the latest news and operational information for passengers are published.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of loss or damage to luggage, it is recommended to contact your airline's support service directly or the information desk in the arrivals hall.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions and assistance, you can use the airport's main information desk phone number.

Poitiers-Biard Airport (PIS) is located just a few kilometres west of the city centre of Poitiers, making the journey to it fast and convenient. Travellers can choose one of several ways to reach the terminal, depending on their budget, time, and preferences.

Public transport is the most budget-friendly option. The Vitalis city bus network operates a route connecting the city centre with the airport. The bus ride usually takes about 20-25 minutes. The ticket price is around 1.70 euros, making this option an ideal choice for solo travellers and those wishing to save money. We recommend checking the current schedule on the carrier's website, as the frequency of trips may change.

Taxi or pre-booked transfer offers the fastest and most comfortable way to get to the airport. The trip from the city centre will take just 10-15 minutes. The cost of the trip will be approximately 15-25 euros depending on traffic conditions and the time of day. This is an excellent option if you are travelling with a lot of luggage, with family, or simply value convenience and do not want to depend on schedules.

For those planning to actively explore the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region and other corners of France, car rental will be the best solution. Several international and local rental companies have representation at Poitiers-Biard Airport. You can pick up a car immediately upon arrival or, conversely, return it before departure. For drivers arriving in their own vehicles, the airport territory provides convenient parking lots for both short-term and long-term stays.

Poitiers-Biard Airport (PIS) is a small and convenient regional airport distinguished by a simple and clear structure. There is only one passenger terminal here, which significantly facilitates navigation and saves travellers from the need to move between different buildings.

The terminal serves both domestic and international flights, combining all necessary zones. The layout of the building is extremely logical: check-in counters, the security screening area, a small departure lounge for passengers, as well as the arrival area with a baggage reclaim belt are located on one level. Since there is only one terminal, the question of transfers between them is not relevant — everything is within walking distance.

Completing all pre-flight formalities at Poitiers-Biard Airport usually takes significantly less time than in large international hubs of France. Thanks to the compact size and lower passenger flow, queues for check-in and security control are generally small. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5–2 hours before departure to go through all procedures without rushing.

Navigation inside the terminal is very simple. There are clear signs everywhere, and the small space allows you to orient yourself quickly. Even if you are here for the first time, you are unlikely to get lost. This makes Poitiers-Biard Airport particularly comfortable for families with children and those who prefer a calm start to their journey without unnecessary stress.

The history of Poitiers-Biard Airport (PIS), located in the commune of Biard just a few kilometres from the city, is closely linked to the development of aviation in the 20th century. Its origins go back to the 1920s, when an airfield was founded on this site, initially having a military purpose. Full-scale development of civil aviation began here after the Second World War, when the need arose to establish air connections for the region.

A key historical period for the airfield was the years of the Second World War. During this time, it was used by the German Air Force (Luftwaffe), and after the liberation of France — by the Allied air forces. This experience, despite its dramatic nature, laid the foundation for future infrastructure. In the post-war decades, the airport gradually transformed into a civilian facility, serving first domestic and then international flights.

A real breakthrough in the airport's development occurred at the beginning of the 21st century. In 2002, a new, modern passenger terminal was opened. This large-scale reconstruction allowed for a significant increase in capacity, improved comfort levels for passengers, and attracted new airlines. It was from this moment that Poitiers-Biard Airport became an important transport hub capable of receiving a growing tourist flow.

One of the interesting facts in the airport's history is its close connection with the famous theme park Futuroscope, located nearby. It was the opening of the park in 1987 that became a powerful stimulus for the development of the region's air gateway. The arrival of budget airlines, such as Ryanair, in the 2000s opened direct flights to London, Edinburgh, and other European cities, making Poitiers and its surroundings even more accessible to international tourists. Today, the airport continues to play an important role in the economic and tourist life of the Vienne department.

Poitiers-Biard Airport (PIS) serves as a compact and modern aerial gateway to a picturesque region of France, offering passengers everything necessary for a comfortable start or end to their journey. Despite its small size, the terminal is well-organized and provides a key set of services.

Dining and Shopping. A restaurant and café operates within the airport territory, where you can have a snack, order a full meal, or simply drink a cup of coffee while waiting for your flight. Nearby is a small shop selling fresh press, souvenirs, and essential goods. ATMs are installed in the terminal for financial transactions, but currency exchange bureaux are absent, so it is better to ensure you have euros in advance.

Internet and Work. Passengers have access to free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected, check email, or solve work issues. Zones for charging electronic devices are also provided. The airport does not have specialized conference rooms, but the quiet atmosphere and availability of the internet make it a convenient place for business travellers who need to work before departure.

Passenger Amenities. The airport cares about the comfort of all categories of travellers. For families with small children, baby care rooms with changing tables are equipped. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with all necessary assistance; for this, it is recommended to make a request through your airline in advance, no later than 48 hours before departure. In case of feeling unwell, you can contact airport staff for first aid. There are no VIP lounges at the airport, however, the general waiting area is spacious and comfortable enough.

Accommodation. Although there are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, many accommodation options for every taste and budget are located just a few minutes away by taxi or car. This makes it easy to find a convenient hotel for an overnight stay before an early flight or after a late arrival.

Poitiers-Biard Airport (PIS) is a compact regional airport, so dining options here are concentrated in one main establishment that serves all passengers. When planning a snack or lunch, bear in mind that the selection is not as wide as in large international hubs, but quite sufficient to spend time comfortably while waiting for a flight.

The main place where you can eat is the restaurant and café located in the main hall of the airport, in the public zone (landside), that is, before passing security control. This is the only full-service establishment on the premises, so it is better to eat here. After passing through screening, opportunities to buy food are generally absent or extremely limited.

In the menu, you will find a standard set for a quick snack: sandwiches, paninis, pastries (croissants, buns), as well as hot and cold drinks, including coffee and tea. For a more substantial lunch, simple hot dishes such as quiche, lasagne, or the dish of the day are usually offered. Sometimes you can find products with local flair here, for example, sandwiches with cheeses from the Poitou-Charentes region. Regarding special dietary needs (vegetarian, gluten-free, or Halal), the selection will be very limited. It is better to check the availability of such options directly with the staff. Prices here are moderate but, as in most airports, slightly higher than in the city.

The opening hours of the establishment are usually tied to the flight schedule: it opens a few hours before the first departure and closes after the departure of the last plane. Thus, you will always have the opportunity to have a snack, regardless of the time of your journey.

Planning a trip through Poitiers-Biard Airport, you can count on a calmer and faster organization than in large hubs. However, a few tips will help make your experience even more comfortable and predictable. Here is what every traveller flying from Poitiers should know.

Arrival Time and Check-in. Poitiers-Biard Airport is relatively small, so giant queues are rare here. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before international flights (including flights to Schengen countries) and 1-1.5 hours before domestic flights. To save time, complete online check-in on your airline's website and, if you are travelling only with hand luggage, head straight to security control.

Hand Luggage and Security Control. Rules are standard for European airports. Remember that all liquids (gels, creams, aerosols) must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in one transparent bag with a volume of up to 1 litre. Take laptops and other large electronics out of your bag in advance to speed up the screening process.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane. Want to enjoy views of the picturesque landscapes of western France? Try to choose a window seat. The best way to guarantee yourself a good seat is to book it during ticket purchase or online check-in. Many low-cost carriers flying from Poitiers offer this service for an additional fee.

Customs Control and Transfers. Since most flights from Poitiers are operated within the EU, there is no systematic passport control for them. However, for flights to the UK or other countries outside the Schengen area, it is mandatory. The airport is not a major transit hub, so transfers are rare here. If you do have a connecting flight, check with the airline whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage.

How to Save Money. One of the best ways to save money is to strictly monitor the weight and dimensions of your luggage to avoid excess weight charges. Bring an empty reusable water bottle with you: after passing security control, you can fill it at drinking fountains without buying water at inflated prices.

In Case of Flight Delay. Remain calm. Information about the status of your flight will be displayed on the departure board. If the delay is significant, contact your airline representative. Remember that EU261 regulations apply in Europe, protecting passenger rights. Depending on the length of the delay and the flight distance, you may be entitled to meals, drinks, and sometimes hotel accommodation or monetary compensation.