Pierrefonds Airport

Pierrefonds Airport, conveniently located on the southern coast of the island, serves as the aerial gateway to the "Wild South" of Reunion. It is the island's second-largest airport and serves as an ideal starting point for exploring volcanic landscapes, picturesque cirques, and authentic Creole culture. Unlike the larger Roland Garros Airport, Pierrefonds offers a calmer and cosier atmosphere, allowing travellers to begin their adventure without unnecessary hustle and bustle.

Features and Advantages

The main advantage of Pierrefonds Airport is its strategic location. It is situated in close proximity to iconic landmarks such as the Piton de la Fournaise volcano, the Cirque de Cilaos, and the scenic coast of the "Wild South". This allows tourists to significantly reduce travel time to major natural attractions. The airport handles both domestic and international flights, serving as a key hub for travel to Mauritius. The small size of the terminal ensures quick and comfortable completion of all formalities, and free parking is provided for the convenience of passengers.

Below you will find contact information for Pierrefonds Airport to help you plan your trip and address any potential queries.

• Official Website: You can always find the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and regulations on the airport's official website: www.aeroport-reunion-pierrefonds.fr.
• Information Desk Phone: For enquiries regarding general questions, flight schedules, and airport services, please call: +262 (0)262 96 80 00.
• Airport Address: Chemin de l'Aérodrome, 97410 Saint-Pierre, Réunion.
• Email: A direct email address is not provided. It is recommended to use the contact form on the airport's official website for communication.
• Social Media: Follow news and updates on the airport's official Facebook page.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged during the flight, you should immediately contact your airline's Lost & Found service at the airport. If you have lost personal items within the terminal, please contact the airport information desk.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For questions related to service at the airport, you may contact the main information desk number.

Getting to Pierrefonds Airport from the city of Saint-Pierre is quite simple, as it is located just a few kilometres southwest of the centre. This small regional airport primarily serves flights around the island and to neighbouring countries, making it a convenient starting point for travelling through the southern part of Reunion. Depending on your budget, time, and preferences, you can choose one of several ways to reach the terminal.

Public Transport is the most economical option. Local bus networks, such as Alternéo, serve the southern part of the island and have routes passing near the airport. A bus trip from the centre of Saint-Pierre will take approximately 20-30 minutes, excluding waiting time. This is an excellent choice for travellers with light luggage. Be sure to check the current schedule and route number on the carrier's official website, as they are subject to change.

Taxi or Transfer is the fastest and most comfortable method. A taxi ride from the city centre to the airport will take only 10-15 minutes depending on traffic conditions. This is an ideal option if you have a lot of luggage, are travelling with family, or are departing early in the morning or late at night. The cost will be significantly higher than the bus, but the comfort and speed compensate for this. You can also book a private transfer in advance, which guarantees a fixed price and a car arriving at your required time.

Car Rental offers maximum flexibility. If you plan to explore the island by car, you can rent one in Saint-Pierre and return it directly at the airport before departure (most rental companies provide this service). The road from the city is simple and well-signposted. This option allows you not to depend on public transport schedules and to plan your time independently.

For those arriving in their own or rented vehicle, parking is available at Pierrefonds Airport. You can leave your car in short-term or long-term parking. This is convenient if you are flying away for a few days and plan to return to the same airport. Rates vary depending on the duration of parking.

Pierrefonds Airport (ZSE) is a compact and modern regional airport serving the southern part of Reunion island. Its key advantage is simplicity and convenience for passengers, making travel as comfortable as possible and eliminating the stress often associated with major aviation hubs.

Structurally, the airport consists of one passenger terminal, which handles both departing and arriving flights. Thanks to its small size, navigation within it is intuitive. All key areas—check-in counters, security screening, the departure lounge, and the baggage claim area—are within walking distance of each other. The lack of need to transfer between terminals significantly saves time and effort.

The departure and arrival zones are located in the same building. Upon entering the terminal, you immediately find yourself in the main hall with check-in counters. After checking in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to pre-flight security screening, followed by a small but cosy waiting lounge. The arrival zone is equally simple: after disembarking from the aircraft, passengers walk to the terminal building, where the baggage reclaim belt and the exit to the city await them. It is practically impossible to get lost here.

Completing all formalities usually takes minimal time. For domestic and regional flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1–1.5 hours before departure. This time is more than sufficient for a calm check-in and passing through security control. Travellers departing from Pierrefonds need not worry about long queues and rushing—the atmosphere here is much more relaxed than in large international hubs.

Pierrefonds Airport (Aéroport de Saint-Pierre Pierrefonds), with IATA code ZSE, is a relatively young but strategically important transport hub for Reunion island. Its history began not so long ago, but it is closely linked to the drive for developing the southern part of the island.

The official opening of the airport took place in 1999. The main goal of its creation was to stimulate economic growth and tourism in the southern communes, as well as to reduce the load on the island's main airport, Roland Garros, located in the north. From the very beginning, Pierrefonds was oriented towards serving regional flights, primarily to Mauritius and Madagascar, which significantly simplified travel for residents of the south.

One of the key stages in the airport's development was the gradual expansion of its route network. Over time, in addition to regional destinations, attempts were made to launch direct long-haul flights to France, which was a significant event for the local population. Although these routes were not always permanent, the very fact of their appearance highlighted the growing importance of Pierrefonds. The airport has repeatedly undergone modernisation to meet modern standards of safety and passenger service.

An interesting fact: the airport was built on the territory of a former sugar estate called "Pierrefonds", from which it received its name. Today, it is not just a transport facility but a symbol of economic development and improved accessibility for the southern part of Reunion, offering travellers a more convenient start for exploring cities like Saint-Pierre and the picturesque natural attractions of this region.

Despite its compact size, Pierrefonds Airport offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait before their flight. Here you will find amenities to make your journey more pleasant.

Dining and Shopping. The terminal features a snack bar where you can order beverages, sandwiches, and light snacks. If you wish to buy a keepsake or a gift, there is a shop offering local souvenirs, where you can find the island's famous rum, spices, and other goods from Reunion. Newspapers and travel essentials are also sold here.

Comfort and Connectivity. Free Wi-Fi is available for passengers throughout the airport, allowing you to stay connected. Special power outlets are provided in the waiting lounge for charging mobile phones and other gadgets. While there may not be dedicated VIP lounges, the general waiting areas are sufficiently comfortable.

Financial and Other Services. ATMs for withdrawing cash (Euros) are installed in the terminal building. For passengers travelling with small children, baby care rooms are equipped. The airport is fully adapted to serve passengers with reduced mobility. It is recommended to notify your airline in advance if assistance is required so that airport staff can provide all necessary support.

Accommodation and Business Services. There are no hotels on the airport grounds, but many accommodation options can be found in the nearby city of Saint-Pierre and its surroundings. Specialised conference rooms are absent within the airport, however, similar services are offered by many hotels in Saint-Pierre.

Pierrefonds Airport (ZSE) is a small and convenient regional airport, so the choice of dining establishments corresponds to its compact size. Passengers are offered one main food outlet, which is ideal for a quick bite before departure.

In the main hall of the airport, before security control (in the public zone), the "L'Aéro-Club" snack bar is located. This is the primary place to eat. Travellers will find a classic assortment for a quick snack: sandwiches, paninis, salads, pastries (croissants, pain au chocolat), as well as hot and cold beverages. For a more substantial but quick lunch, you can choose one of the hearty sandwiches. Sometimes, local snacks such as samosas (samoussas)—a popular street food in Reunion—can be found here.

The bar's opening hours are directly linked to the flight schedule; it opens a few hours before departure and closes after processing the last arriving passengers. Prices here are moderate, as in most small European airports. Regarding dietary preferences, the selection is limited. Vegetarians will likely be able to find a simple salad or cheese sandwich; however, please note that specific vegan, gluten-free, or Halal options may not be available. Passengers with strict dietary requirements are advised to bring food with them.

Since all dining services are located in the public zone, there will likely be no opportunity to buy food after passing through security (in the departure zone). If you are counting on a full lunch or dinner, the best solution would be to visit one of the numerous restaurants in the nearby city of Saint-Pierre before heading to the airport.

To ensure your journey through Pierrefonds Airport in Saint-Pierre goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of our tips. This small and cosy airport primarily serves regional flights, making navigation simple and fast.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For regional and domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time is sufficient to drop off luggage, pass through security, and reach the boarding gate without rushing. To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this option.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage. When flying from Reunion, try to choose a window seat. You will be treated to stunning views of the island's volcanic landscapes and the turquoise ocean. Standard hand luggage rules apply here: liquids up to 100 ml in a transparent bag, and no sharp objects. Be careful when exporting exotic fruits or plants, as phytosanitary restrictions may apply.

Customs Control. Since Reunion is an overseas department of France, flights to EU countries do not require strict customs control. However, there are specific allowances for exporting local products, such as rum and vanilla. Be sure to check the current limits before your trip to avoid misunderstandings.

Savings and Unforeseen Situations. You can save money by booking a taxi or renting a car online in advance. Inside the terminal, the choice of cafes and shops is limited, so you may wish to bring an empty water bottle to fill after the security checkpoint. In case of a flight delay, contact your airline's counter for information on the departure status and your rights as a passenger, including potential compensation.

Passengers with Connections. Pierrefonds Airport is rarely used as a major transit hub. Most flights are direct. If you do have a short connection planned, please note that infrastructure for long waits is minimal here. Plan your time accordingly.