Reunion Roland Garros Airport

Roland Garros Reunion Airport (RUN) is the main aerial gateway to the exotic island of Reunion in the Indian Ocean. Named after the legendary French aviator born in Saint-Denis, this airport is not merely a transport hub but a true symbol connecting the island with mainland France and the entire world. As the base for Air Austral, it plays a key role in regional and international connectivity. From here, travellers begin their discovery of the island's incredible nature, volcanoes, and unique culture.

Roland Garros Airport is constantly developing to ensure maximum comfort for passengers. In 2024, a new modern terminal dedicated to arrivals was opened, while the historic building now services departures, significantly simplifying navigation. The airport features two runways capable of receiving long-haul aircraft, allowing for some of the world's longest domestic flights — to Paris and Marseille. Passengers can enjoy duty-free shopping, cafes serving local delicacies, and comfortable lounges, making the start and end of a journey across Reunion particularly pleasant.

• Official Website: www.reunion.aeroport.fr
• Help Desk Phone: +262 262 48 80 00
• Address: 74 Avenue Roland Garros, 97438 Sainte-Marie, La Réunion, France
• Email: For enquiries, it is recommended to use the contact form on the airport's official website.
• Social Media: The airport maintains active social media pages where you can follow news and updates.
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• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline's Lost & Found service directly.
• Lost & Found: If you have left personal items within the airport premises, contact the Lost Property Service (Service Objets Trouvés) by phone: +262 262 48 80 19 or via email: objets-trouves@reunion.aeroport.fr.

Reaching the main airport of Reunion, located approximately 10 km east of Saint-Denis, is possible via several methods. Choosing the optimal option depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and available time.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly solution. Buses from the Citalis and Car Jaune networks run regularly between the airport, the city centre, and other locations on the island. Look for routes marked "Aéroport". The trip from the centre of Saint-Denis usually takes about 25-30 minutes, though it may take longer due to traffic. This method is ideal for travellers with light luggage who wish to save money.

Taxis and Private Transfers offer maximum comfort and speed. A taxi ride from the city centre to the terminal will take approximately 15-20 minutes (excluding traffic). The cost will be significantly higher than the bus, especially during night hours, holidays, and weekends. Taxi stands are located at the exit of the arrivals area. A pre-booked transfer is an excellent alternative if you are travelling with family or a large number of suitcases, as the price is fixed in advance.

Car Rental is an extremely popular option on Reunion, an island best explored by car. The airport terminal houses counters for many international and local rental agencies. You can collect your car immediately upon arrival or return it before departure. For those driving their own vehicle to the airport, convenient short-term and long-term parking facilities are available. Prices vary depending on the duration of the stay.

Roland Garros Reunion Airport (RUN), situated near the city of Saint-Denis, is the main transport hub of Reunion island. Its structure is quite simple and convenient for travellers, as it consists of one main passenger terminal serving both domestic and international flights. This compactness significantly simplifies navigation and minimises the risk of getting lost.

The terminal has a two-level structure, standard for most modern airports. The Arrivals Area is located on the ground floor (Level 0). Here, passengers go through passport control, collect luggage at the carousels, pass through customs, and exit into the general hall. The arrivals hall houses car rental counters, tourist information offices, and exits to taxis and buses. The Departures Area is located on the first floor (Level 1), accessible by lift or escalator. This area contains airline check-in counters and self-service kiosks.

Procedures at the airport are organised logically. After checking in on the first floor, passengers proceed to the security screening and passport control area, after which they enter the secure zone. Here, Duty Free shops, cafes, and boarding gates are located. Since there is only one terminal, no transfers between terminals are required, making the connection or departure process as comfortable as possible.

To complete all formalities, it is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance. For international flights, allow at least 2.5-3 hours before departure, and for regional or domestic flights, about 1.5-2 hours. During peak tourist seasons or holidays, waiting times at check-in and security may increase. Overall, navigation through the airport is intuitive thanks to clear signage in French and English, and staff are always ready to assist.

The history of Reunion's main airport begins in 1929, when the Gillot Aerodrome (Aérodrome de Gillot) was opened on this site. Initially, it was a modest airstrip serving few flights and holding both civil and military importance. Located near the island's capital, Saint-Denis, the aerodrome was the first step towards establishing regular air connections with the outside world.

The airport received a significant boost in development after World War II. In 1946, the first proper paved runway was constructed. With the advent of the jet age in the 1960s, the infrastructure required serious modernisation. The runway was extended to accommodate large liners such as the Boeing 707, which allowed for the launch of direct flights to France and significantly reduced travel time.

In 1993, the airport received its current name in honour of Roland Garros, the famous French aviator and World War I hero who was born in Saint-Denis. This move immortalised the memory of the distinguished local figure. Following the renaming, a large-scale reconstruction ensued: in 1998, a new modern passenger terminal was opened, capable of serving the growing flow of tourists.

In the 21st century, development has not stopped. The airport has gone through several stages of modernisation, including terminal expansion and improvements to passenger service areas, to meet international standards. Today, Roland Garros Reunion Airport is not just a transport hub but a key infrastructure facility playing a central role in the economy and tourist appeal of the island, connecting this corner of the Indian Ocean with the world.

Roland Garros Reunion Airport offers passengers a wide range of services to make waiting for flights as comfortable as possible. In the terminal, you will find various dining options: from restaurants where you can taste local Creole cuisine to cosy cafes for a quick snack. Shops offer both essential goods and souvenirs, including the famous Reunion rum and spices. Of course, there is also a Duty-Free zone with a classic assortment of perfumes, cosmetics, beverages, and confectionery.

For those wishing to stay connected or work, free Wi-Fi access is provided throughout the airport. Numerous gadget charging stations are located in the waiting lounges, so you can easily recharge your phone or laptop before departure. Passengers preferring enhanced comfort can utilise the VIP Lounge services, where beverages, snacks, and newspapers and magazines are offered in a quiet atmosphere.

The airport provides all necessary financial services. You can use ATMs to withdraw cash or visit currency exchange points. In case of unforeseen health situations, a medical point is available in the terminal, ready to provide first aid.

Special attention is paid to passengers with children and people with reduced mobility. For families with infants, mother and child rooms equipped with changing tables are available. Passengers with special needs are provided with necessary assistance when moving through the terminal, boarding, and disembarking from the aircraft — it is recommended to notify the airline in advance for this service. The airport features specially equipped restrooms and ramps.

Although there are no hotels directly within the terminal building, several hotels are located in the immediate vicinity, just a few minutes' drive away. For business travellers, business centres or conference room services may be available, allowing for meetings or work in a quiet environment.

Roland Garros Reunion Airport offers passengers several options for a snack or a full meal to spend time comfortably while waiting for a flight. Catering establishments are located both in the public area and in the departure zone after security control.

In the public area (landside), accessible to all visitors, the selection is generally wider. Here you can find restaurants offering both European and local Creole cuisine. This is a great place to have a leisurely lunch or dinner with those seeing you off. Cafes are also located here, where you can have coffee with fresh pastries or a sandwich. Prices here can be characterised as average for an airport.

After passing security control, in the secure zone (airside), the choice is somewhat more limited but sufficient for a snack before boarding. Usually, there is a refreshment counter where you can order beverages and light snacks, as well as fast food outlets. This is an ideal option for those who have little time left before departure. Most establishments operate according to the flight schedule, opening for morning departures and closing after the last planes have left.

When travelling through Reunion, be sure to try something from the local cuisine. Look out for dishes with vanilla, curry, or fresh juices from tropical fruits — this is a wonderful opportunity to experience the island's gastronomy. Regarding special dietary needs (vegetarian, gluten-free, or Halal options), it is recommended to check the availability of suitable dishes directly with the cafe or restaurant staff, as specialised menus may be limited.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Saint-Denis begins without unnecessary haste, we recommend arriving for check-in well in advance. For international flights and long-haul journeys, including flights to mainland France, it is optimal to be at the terminal 2.5-3 hours before departure. For short regional flights, for example to neighbouring islands, 2 hours is usually sufficient. Be sure to check information from your airline, as their requirements may take priority.

Online check-in, available with most carriers, helps save time at the airport. This allows you to either proceed immediately to the baggage drop-off counter or, if you are travelling with hand luggage only, go directly to the security checkpoint. The security screening procedure here is standard: prepare liquids in advance (in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a single transparent bag) and be ready to remove laptops and other large electronics from your bag.

The island of Reunion is primarily about incredible nature. To get the most impressions even before landing or immediately after takeoff, try to choose a window seat during check-in. Stunning views of volcanic peaks, cirques, and the turquoise lagoon will be a beautiful start or finish to your island adventure.

In your hand luggage, besides standard restrictions on liquids and sharp objects, you should pack all valuables, documents, gadgets, and necessary medicines. If you plan to bring home famous Reunion rum, spices, or exotic fruit jams, remember that liquids exceeding 100 ml can be carried only in checked baggage. Goods purchased in Duty Free shops after security screening are an exception.

For passengers with connections at Roland Garros Airport, it is important to clarify the transit procedure in advance. When checking in for the first flight segment, ask if your luggage will be automatically transferred to the next flight. If you face a long wait, there are several cafes and shops in the secure zone of the airport where you can rest and have a snack.

Since Reunion is part of France and the EU, customs control for passengers arriving from EU countries is minimal. However, strict phytosanitary rules apply: it is prohibited to bring many types of plants, seeds, and fresh produce onto the island to protect its fragile endemic flora and fauna. Upon departure, do not forget about currency export regulations and declaring expensive goods.

To save time and money, book your airport transfer in advance online — this is often more economical than using taxi services on the spot. You can also use the Car Jaune scheduled buses, which connect the airport with the main towns on the island. Don't forget to bring an empty water bottle, which can be filled with drinking water after passing security control.

In case of flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative for current information. Since departures from Reunion are covered by European regulation EC 261/2004, depending on the length of the wait, you may be entitled to drinks, meals, and in case of a long delay, hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts for expenses and your boarding pass.