Pluguffan Airport

Pluguffan Airport, also known as Quimper–Cornouaille Airport, serves as a welcoming air gateway to the heart of Celtic Brittany. Located amidst the picturesque landscapes of the Finistère department, this aviation hub offers travellers a unique combination of countryside tranquility and modern efficiency. It is the ideal starting point for those wishing to begin their exploration of the region in comfort, bypassing the hustle and stress of congested metropolitan hubs.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

The main advantage of Pluguffan Airport is its compactness and speed of service. Thanks to the small size of the terminal, all procedures — from check-in to security screening — take a minimal amount of time. There are practically no queues here, allowing passengers to arrive at the airport a little later than at major international hubs, preserving precious time for relaxation.

Its convenient geographic location makes this airport a strategically important point for tourists. It is situated just a few minutes' drive from the historical centre of the city of Quimper and in close proximity to the popular seaside resorts of the southern coast of Brittany, such as Bénodet and Concarneau. This allows you to start a full-fledged holiday literally immediately after landing.

The airport is distinguished by a friendly atmosphere and intuitive navigation. Staff here typically devote more attention to each passenger, and the risk of losing luggage is kept to a minimum. Furthermore, for car owners, there is spacious and affordable parking located within walking distance of the terminal entrance, making travel logistics as simple as possible.

• Official Website: www.quimper.aeroport.bzh
• Inquiry Phone: +33 (0)2 98 94 30 30
• Address: Aéroport de Quimper Cornouaille, 29700 Pluguffan, France
• Email: contact@quimper.aeroport.bzh
• Social Media: You can follow news and airport updates on its official social media pages.
• Lost Luggage: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline's representative first. If you have left personal items in the terminal building, contact the airport's general information service.
• Passenger Support Service: For consultation or assistance, you may use the airport's main phone number or email address.

Pluguffan Airport (UIP) is located just a few kilometres southwest of the centre of Quimper, making the journey there quick and convenient. Travellers can choose the most suitable method for reaching the terminal, be it public transport, taxi, or a private vehicle. This airport is an important transport hub for anyone travelling through the Brittany region in France.

Public transport is the most budget-friendly option. Bus route No. 25 of the QUB transport network directly connects the city centre (Résistance stop) with the airport. The trip usually takes about 20-30 minutes, and the fare is equal to the price of a standard bus ticket. This is the ideal choice for those travelling light and wishing to save money.

For maximum convenience and speed, you can use taxi services or book a private transfer. A car journey from the centre of Quimper will take approximately 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The estimated cost of a taxi ride during the day is 20–30 Euros, but tariffs may be higher during night hours and on weekends. This method is particularly convenient for passengers with bulky luggage or families with children.

If you plan to explore the picturesque region of Brittany, renting a car is an excellent solution. Several international and local rental agencies operate at the airport and in the city. For those arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, convenient parking with zones for short-term and long-term stays is provided on the premises.

When planning your trip, it is also useful to know about other airports in the region. The largest alternatives are Brest Bretagne Airport (BES) and Lorient South Brittany Airport (LRT), which serve a greater number of destinations. At some distance, you will also find Lannion – Côte de Granit Airport in Lannion and Saint-Nazaire Montoir Airport in Saint-Nazaire.

Pluguffan Airport (UIP) is distinguished by its compactness and convenience for passengers. It consists of one passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. Such a structure makes navigation through the airport extremely simple and fast, which is especially appreciated by travellers who dislike the bustle of major aviation hubs.

The terminal layout is intuitively clear. All key zones — check-in counters, security screening, the waiting lounge, baggage claim area, and the exit to the city — are located in one building and within walking distance of each other. Since there is only one terminal, there is absolutely no need for transfers or shuttles. It is practically impossible to get lost here: simply follow the few but clear signs.

The departure zone is located after the check-in counters and security checkpoint. It is a small but cosy waiting hall with a boarding gate. The arrival zone is in another part of the building and includes the baggage claim belt and customs control for international flights. All procedures are organised in such a way as to minimise waiting time.

The main feature of the terminal is its efficiency. Thanks to its small size and moderate passenger flow, passing through check-in and screening usually takes significantly less time than at major airports. As a rule, all formalities take no more than 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1-1.5 hours before departure to check in luggage and pass through controls without rushing.

The history of Pluguffan Airport (UIP), officially known as Quimper–Cornouaille Airport, is closely linked to the development of tourism and the economy of the Brittany region. Its story began in 1933 with the creation of a small airfield. Located in the commune of Pluguffan, just a few kilometres from Quimper, it initially served the needs of local flying clubs and private aviation.

A real breakthrough in the airport's development occurred in the second half of the 20th century. In 1961, management of the facility passed to the Quimper Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which kickstarted its commercial use. By 1963, the airline Air Inter opened the first regular scheduled flight on the Quimper — Paris route, which became a vital transport artery connecting western Brittany with the capital of France. To service the growing passenger flow, a new, more modern terminal was built in 1974.

A key stage of modernisation was the extension of the runway in 1993 to 2,150 metres. This allowed the airport to accommodate medium-haul aircraft, such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320. Thanks to this, in the 1990s and early 2000s, Pluguffan Airport experienced a real boom, especially in the segment of charter flights to popular Mediterranean resorts. During this period, passenger flow reached record highs, exceeding 170,000 people per year.

In 2003, the terminal was reconstructed and expanded again to meet modern standards of comfort and safety. Today, Quimper–Cornouaille Airport continues to play an important role in the region's transport system. It not only facilitates business and tourist trips but also serves as the air gateway for guests of the famous Festival de Cornouaille. It is a compact and convenient airport that holds within it the rich history of aviation development in the westernmost corner of France.

Pluguffan Airport (UIP), serving the city of Quimper and the Brittany region, represents a compact and modern terminal where all conditions for a comfortable wait for your flight are created. Despite its small size, the airport offers passengers a wide range of essential services.

A café-restaurant operates within the terminal, where you can have a snack before departure, order sandwiches, salads, or hot dishes, as well as coffee or other beverages. There is also a small shop offering newspapers, books, souvenirs, and famous Breton delicacies — an excellent opportunity to buy last-minute gifts.

For all passengers, the terminal building offers free and unlimited Wi-Fi, allowing you to stay connected or work while waiting for boarding. Power outlets for charging electronic devices are provided in the waiting lounges. Although there are no separate VIP lounges in the airport, the general waiting area is sufficiently comfortable and quiet.

Financial services are represented by an ATM located in the main hall of the terminal. There is no currency exchange bureau at the airport, so it is recommended to arrange currency exchange in advance. In case of necessity, first aid can be provided to passengers.

Travellers with children can use the mother and child room equipped with changing tables. For passengers with reduced mobility, special assistance (PRM service) is provided, including escort from the airport entrance to boarding the aircraft. It is recommended to book this service in advance through your airline, no later than 48 hours before departure.

There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, however, many accommodation options can be found in the immediate vicinity and in Quimper itself, which is just a few minutes' drive away. For business travellers, the airport offers the rental of a conference room equipped with everything necessary for holding meetings and negotiations.

Pluguffan Airport (UIP), being a compact regional airport, offers few but convenient options for a snack before departure. Do not expect a large variety of restaurants here as in major international hubs; however, satisfying your hunger or having a cup of coffee is entirely possible.

The main and, typically, the only place for dining at the airport is the café-restaurant L'envol. It is located in the main hall of the terminal, in the public zone (before passing security control), which is convenient for both departing passengers and those seeing them off. Here you can order a quick snack: sandwiches, salads, pastries, and desserts. Pay attention to local Breton specialities if they are on the menu — for example, the traditional kouign-amann cake or local beverages. This is a great opportunity to enjoy the taste of France at the last moment.

The establishment is ideal for a light breakfast or a quick lunch. For a full dinner, the selection will be limited. Regarding dietary requirements, basic vegetarian options, such as a cheese sandwich, will likely be found, but please note that specialised vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes are unlikely to be available. Prices here align with standard airport rates — slightly higher than in the city. The opening hours of the café are usually tied to the flight schedule: it opens a few hours before the first departure and closes after the departure of the last aircraft.

To ensure your journey through Pluguffan Airport (UIP) goes smoothly, make use of these tips. Despite the fact that this is a small regional airport and procedures here may be faster than in major hubs, it is better to arrive early. We recommend arriving at the airport at least 1.5–2 hours before the departure of domestic or Schengen flights to pass all formalities calmly.

To save time, complete online check-in for your flight on your airline's website. This will allow you to proceed immediately to baggage drop (if you have any) or to security control. The screening procedure is standard: prepare liquids in advance (in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag) and remove large electronic devices, such as laptops and tablets, from your hand luggage.

When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your preferences. Window seats will offer you beautiful views of the Brittany coast during takeoff and landing. Aisle seats are convenient if you plan to get up often. Passengers wishing to leave the cabin faster after landing should choose seats in the front part of the aircraft.

Pay close attention to the rules for carrying hand luggage. Besides the standard restriction on liquids, ensure there are no prohibited items in your bag: sharp objects, flammable substances, and other dangerous materials. Always check the exact weight and dimension allowances for hand luggage on your airline's website, as they may differ.

If you have a connecting flight, clarify at check-in whether your luggage will be automatically forwarded to the final destination. Quimper Airport serves mainly flights within France and Europe, so most connections will be in major hubs like Paris. Leave a sufficient time margin between flights, especially if you have to change terminals or pass through security control again.

Customs control is not required for most passengers departing from Quimper, as flights are operated within the Schengen Area. Passport control is also absent. However, if your itinerary includes a country outside the EU, be prepared for standard customs procedures upon arrival at your destination.

To save time and money, book your taxi or parking online in advance. Bring an empty water bottle with you, which can be filled after passing security control — this is cheaper than buying water at a premium in the departure zone. You can also bring non-liquid snacks with you to avoid spending money at the airport café.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, immediately contact your airline representative for information. Remember your rights: according to EU regulations, for long delays, the airline is obliged to provide passengers with drinks, meals, and if necessary — hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses to claim compensation later.