Aix-en-Provence Aerodrome (LFMA/QXB): The Premier Hub for General and Business Aviation in Provence
Aix-en-Provence Aerodrome (LFMA), officially known as Aérodrome d’Aix-en-Provence or commonly as Aix les Milles Airport, is a key aviation facility nestled in the beautiful Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of Southern France. Located approximately 6 km (3.2 NM) west-southwest of the city centre, in the historic Les Milles area, it serves as the essential gateway for private, business, and educational aviation activities in the region.
The aerodrome’s strategic position makes it highly convenient for those visiting Aix-en-Provence for its renowned cultural festivals, universities, and business engagements.
Key Information Snapshot:
- IATA Code: QXB
- ICAO Code: LFMA
- Location: Les Milles, Aix-en-Provence, France
- Commercial Status: No Scheduled Commercial Flights (Exclusively for General Aviation)
- Operator: CCI Marseille Provence
Operations and Specialized Facilities
As of 2025, LFMA is a highly active aerodrome dedicated exclusively to General Aviation (GA), including private flights, helicopter operations, and extensive flight training. It operates under the authority of the CCI Marseille Provence.
The airport plays a crucial role as a base for multiple flight schools, including a campus of the prestigious École nationale de l’aviation civile (ENAC), France’s civil aviation university, ensuring its importance in French aviation education.
- Commercial Flight Status: There are no scheduled airlines or commercial passenger routes served from this airport. For international or commercial travel, passengers must utilize the nearby Marseille Provence Airport (MRS/LFML), which is conveniently located only about 14 km away and is the major commercial hub for the region.
- Runway: The aerodrome features one primary asphalt runway, designated 15/33, measuring 1,600 by 30 metres (5,249 ft × 98 ft), suitable for light to medium-sized General Aviation and business jet traffic.
- FBO and Handling Services: While the public access areas offer minimal public amenities, the General and Business Aviation sector is robustly served by dedicated operators. Essential requirements for private operators include a 12-hour Prior Permission Required (PPR) protocol for all flights and mandatory ground handling for aircraft over 3 tonnes. Dedicated FBOs (Fixed-Base Operators) such as ExecuJet/Edeis and Jetex provide comprehensive services including:
- VIP Executive Lounges and passenger services
- Professional ground handling and refuelling
- Aircraft parking and maintenance support
- Amenities: General public amenities such as public Wi-Fi, cafés, or retail shops are not typically available in the main aerodrome buildings. Superior services are provided exclusively through the FBOs for their private clients.
Transportation and Accessibility
Its close proximity to the city makes transport to and from the aerodrome efficient, catering primarily to private and on-demand travel.
- By Taxi: The most reliable and direct transport option. A taxi ride to the Aix-en-Provence city centre typically takes only 10–15 minutes, with an estimated fare of 15–25 EUR.
- Car Rental: Car rental services are not based directly on-site. Business travellers should arrange rentals in advance or plan to pick up vehicles at the larger Marseille Provence Airport (MRS).
- Public Transport: There is no direct public bus service or rail connection available to the Aix-en-Provence Aerodrome (LFMA). Taxi or private car remains the only recommended method of access.
- Parking: A small dedicated free parking lot is available for pilots, students, and visitors.
Accommodation Near LFMA
For pilots, crew, and private travellers requiring proximity to the aerodrome, several well-regarded hotels are available within a short driving distance, combining convenience with Provençal charm:
- Novotel Aix-en-Provence
- Hôtel Le Pigonnet
- Château de la Pioline (A luxury boutique option nearby)
Contact and Technical Information
- Official Name: Aérodrome d’Aix-en-Provence (Aix les Milles)
- Address: Chem. de la Badesse, 13290 Les Milles, FRANCE
- Coordinates: 43° 30′ 19″ N, 5° 22′ 4″ E (43.505278, 5.367778)
- RFF/ARFF: Category 2 (with capability to upgrade to Cat 4 with Prior Notice)
- Operational Hours: Hours are subject to seasonal change and specific PPR (Prior Permission Required) slots. Always confirm the current operational hours and handling requirements with your chosen FBO or the airport authority.