Felix Eboue Airport

Felix Eboue Airport is the main aerial gateway to French Guiana, serving as the starting point for exploring the amazing world of Amazonian jungles and European space technology. Located in the commune of Matoury, this airport immerses travellers in a tropical atmosphere from the very first minute, thanks to its open architecture and surrounding greenery. It serves as a key link not only with Paris but also with neighbouring countries in the Caribbean and South America.

Named after a famous French humanist and politician, the airport combines the flair of a French overseas territory with modern service standards. Specialists for the Guiana Space Centre and tourists seeking exotic experiences arrive here, giving the place a special, dynamic rhythm of life.

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

One of the main highlights of the airport is its proximity to the famous Guiana Space Centre in Kourou. It is not uncommon to encounter international delegations and scientists arriving for rocket launches here, creating a unique international atmosphere.

The airport terminal is compact but well-equipped. Travellers note:

• Convenient connection with France: Regular flights connect Cayenne with Paris, ensuring a reliable bridge to Europe.
• Tropical design: The building is designed to maximise the use of natural ventilation and light, reminding you that you are in an equatorial climate.
• Transport accessibility: Taxis and car rental counters are always available at the terminal exit, which is the most popular way to get around the region, as public transport is not widely developed.

While waiting for a flight, guests can visit duty-free shops selling local souvenirs, regional specialties, and French perfumery, or relax in a café overlooking the runway.

For the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and Felix Eboue Airport regulations, it is recommended to contact official channels. Below are the main contact details for the airport.

• Official Website: www.aeroport.fr/cayenne-felix-eboue
• Information Service Phone: +594 594 29 97 00
• Address: Route de l'Aéroport, 97351 Matoury, Guyane française
• Email: To contact the airport administration, it is recommended to use the contact form available on the official website.
• Social Media: Follow news and updates on the airport's official page on Facebook.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, you should first contact your airline's Lost & Found service.
• Passenger Support: For assistance and consultation, you can approach the information desks located in the terminal or call the information service phone number.

Felix Eboue Airport (CAY) is the main air gateway of French Guiana and is located approximately 13 kilometres southwest of the centre of Cayenne, in the commune of Matoury. There are several ways to get from the city to the airport, but the choice of the most convenient one depends on your budget, time, and plans for further travel around the country.

Taxi or pre-booked transfer is the most popular and reliable way to reach the airport. The trip from the centre of Cayenne will take approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The cost of a taxi ride is usually between 35 and 50 Euros, but may be higher at night or on weekends and public holidays. To avoid price surprises and guarantee car availability, it is recommended to book a transfer in advance through your hotel or specialised services.

Car rental is an excellent option for travellers planning to actively explore the region. Felix Eboue Airport hosts representatives of major international rental companies. Having your own transport gives you complete freedom of movement. The road from Cayenne to the airport follows the N2 highway and is well signposted. This method is particularly convenient if you are travelling with family or a large amount of luggage.

Public transport options for travelling to the airport are quite limited. There are no direct and regular bus routes from the city centre to the terminal. Although there are local buses that operate in the Matoury area, this option is extremely inconvenient for tourists with luggage and requires transfers and long waiting times. Therefore, relying on public transport for timely arrival for your flight is not advisable.

For those travelling to the airport by private or rented car, parking is provided on the terminal grounds. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking, allowing you to leave your car for the duration of your trip.

Felix Eboue Airport (CAY), the main air gateway of French Guiana, is a modern and compact complex. All its operations are concentrated in one passenger terminal, which handles both international flights connecting the region with Europe and the Caribbean, as well as domestic flights. Thanks to its small size, the airport is very convenient for passengers and does not require long walks.

The structure of the terminal is intuitive. The building has two main levels. On the Ground Floor, you will find the check-in area, airline counters, the arrival hall with baggage claim, and car rental offices. A small café can also be found here. The First Floor is entirely dedicated to the departure zone: after passing security control, passengers enter the airside area with several boarding gates, a Duty Free shop, and another café. Movement between floors is via stairs and elevators.

Check-in and security procedures at Cayenne airport usually go quite quickly due to its compactness. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive in advance: approximately 2.5-3 hours before an international flight departure and 1.5-2 hours before a regional one. This will allow you to drop off luggage, complete all formalities, and rest a bit before the flight without rushing. During peak periods, especially during the tourist season, queues may be longer, so extra time is always beneficial.

Navigating Felix Eboue Airport requires little effort. Signs are clear and understandable, although the primary language is French. Since all flights depart from one building, you do not have to worry about transfers between terminals—there are none. All zones, from check-in to boarding gates, are within a few minutes' walk of each other, making travel through this airport maximally comfortable and predictable.

The history of Felix Eboue Airport is inextricably linked to the events of World War II. It was built by the US Army and opened in 1943 under the name "Rochambeau Airport." Its initial task was to serve as a strategic transit point on the South Atlantic air route, ensuring the transfer of aircraft, personnel, and cargo from America to Africa to support Allied forces.

After the end of the war, in 1949, the airfield was transferred to French management and gradually transformed into the main civil airport of French Guiana. It became a vital link connecting this overseas department with the mainland and played a key role in its post-war development, providing passenger and cargo connections.

Serious modernisation took place in 1992 with the opening of a new, more spacious, and modern passenger terminal. In subsequent years, the runway was repeatedly lengthened and strengthened to accept large long-haul airliners. Today, the airport also performs a crucial logistical function for the Guiana Space Centre in Kourou, receiving components for launch vehicles and satellites. This makes it, in a sense, the gateway to space for all of Europe.

One of the most significant moments in the airport's history occurred in 2012 when it was officially renamed in honour of Felix Eboue. This decision was made to honour the memory of a prominent political figure and hero of the Resistance movement, who was a native of French Guiana. The previous name, "Rochambeau," was associated with a historical figure whose actions sparked debate, and the renaming became an important symbolic act.

Thus, Felix Eboue Airport in Cayenne is not just a transport hub. It is a place with a rich history that has gone from a WWII military base to a modern international airport playing a key role in space exploration and serving as the main air gateway to the amazing world of French Guiana.

Felix Eboue International Airport (CAY) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the terminal, you will find a dining area where you can have a snack or coffee, as well as several shops. At your disposal is a Duty Free shop offering a standard range of goods, and souvenir stalls where you can purchase local crafts, regional products, and other memorable gifts from French Guiana.

Comfortable lounges are provided for waiting in the airport. Passengers can use free Wi-Fi to stay connected, as well as find points for charging electronic devices. For those who prefer a more secluded atmosphere, a VIP lounge is available with additional amenities and a higher level of service.

ATMs for cash withdrawals and currency exchange points are located within the terminal, which is particularly convenient for arriving tourists. In case of need, a first aid station operates at the airport, ready to provide qualified assistance to passengers.

The airport cares for all categories of travellers. For passengers with small children, mother and child rooms are equipped where you can take care of your baby in a quiet environment. Travellers with reduced mobility are provided with special assistance during boarding, disembarking, and moving through the terminal. It is recommended to notify the airline in advance of the need for such services.

Although there are no hotels directly in the airport building, various accommodation options to suit every taste and budget are located a few minutes' drive away. If you need to handle work matters, it is worth checking the availability of business services or conference rooms directly with the airport administration, as a specialised business centre may not be available in the terminal.

Felix Eboue Airport (CAY) is a small and compact airport, so the choice of catering establishments here is not as wide as in major international hubs. Nevertheless, passengers can find several options for a snack or a full meal both before and after passing security control.

The main dining area is located in the general hall of the airport, before security control (landside). Here you will find the main restaurant and café, accessible to all visitors. This is the best place for those who have time before departure or who are seeing off/meeting passengers. The menu usually includes:

• Hot dishes, often with elements of Creole cuisine.
• Sandwiches, paninis, and salads.
• French pastries, such as croissants and buns.
• A wide selection of soft drinks, fresh tropical fruit juices, as well as coffee and tea.

This establishment is the optimal choice for a full lunch or dinner. Prices here, as in most airports, are slightly higher than in the city but remain reasonable.

After passing security control (airside), in the departure zone, the choice is more limited. Usually, a small snack bar or café operates here. This place is ideal for a quick bite right before boarding the flight. The assortment typically includes beverages, coffee, light snacks, chips, and sweets. Here you can pass the time waiting for departure over a cup of espresso.

Regarding special dietary needs, such as Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-free, or Halal meals, finding them at Cayenne Airport may be challenging. The selection is extremely limited, so passengers with strict dietary restrictions are recommended to bring food with them. The opening hours of establishments are directly linked to the flight schedule—they are open during peak activity hours and may be closed late at night or between flights.

To ensure your journey through the main airport of French Guiana goes smoothly, use these tips. Felix Eboue Airport (CAY) is compact and modern, but proper preparation never hurts.

Arrival Time: For international flights, especially to Europe, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2.5-3 hours before departure. For regional flights, 1.5-2 hours is sufficient. This will give you enough time to pass all formalities calmly without rushing.

Check-in and Security: To save time, complete online check-in if your airline provides this option. Keep your passport and boarding pass ready at the airport. Although Cayenne airport is not as busy as major European hubs, security control is conducted according to all international standards.

Seat Selection: When flying out of Guiana, to admire the stunning views of the rainforest or the coast, choose a window seat. For long flights to Europe, an aisle seat might be more comfortable, allowing you to freely stand up and stretch your legs.

Hand Luggage: Remember the standard rules: liquids in containers of no more than 100 ml must be packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects are prohibited. Be careful with souvenirs: the export of certain plants, seeds, or exotic products may be restricted, so check customs regulations in advance.

Transit Passengers: Felix Eboue Airport is rarely used as a major transit hub. If you do have a transfer planned, ensure your luggage is checked through to your final destination, and leave enough time between flights in case of unforeseen delays.

Customs Control: Since French Guiana is an overseas department of France, it is part of the EU customs zone, but has its own specifics. Upon arrival, be prepared for standard customs checks, especially if you are arriving from a country outside the European Union.

Saving Time and Money: Book a transfer from the airport in advance, as this is often more cost-effective than hailing a taxi on the spot. Prices for food and drinks at the airport can be high, so bring an empty reusable water bottle to fill after passing security control.

In Case of Flight Delay: First, contact your airline representative for information and instructions. Flights departing to the EU are covered by the EU261 regulation, which may provide for compensation. Use the free Wi-Fi at the airport to contact loved ones or make changes to hotel and transport bookings.