Brest Bretagne Airport (BES/LFRB): The Premier Gateway to Finistère and Western Brittany
Brest Bretagne Airport (BES/LFRB) stands as the most important international airport serving the magnificent Brittany (Bretagne) region of France, specifically the Finistère department. Conveniently situated in Guipavas, a mere 10 km northeast of the Brest city center, the airport is a vital connector for both tourism and regional business, offering quick and essential access to the iconic Breton coastline.
As a dynamic regional hub, the airport successfully catered to approximately 1 million passengers in 2024, solidifying its role in connecting Western France to the rest of the country and Europe. For 2025, the airport anticipates continued traffic growth, driven by expanded low-cost carrier operations and its strategic access to Brest’s rich maritime and cultural heritage.
Modern Terminal and Enhanced Traveler Services
Brest Bretagne Airport operates out of a single, contemporary terminal designed for efficiency and a streamlined passenger experience.
- Connectivity: Passengers benefit from high-speed, complimentary Wi-Fi access available throughout the terminal, enabling seamless connection before or after a flight.
- Dining & Shopping: The terminal features a pleasant café and bar offering light meals, snacks, and regional specialties. A compact yet diverse duty-free shop is available for international travelers, stocking local Breton products, perfumes, and liquor.
- Accessibility: The airport is fully committed to passenger comfort, offering comprehensive facilities and designated assistance points for Persons with Reduced Mobility (PRM).
- Business Facilities: While a large executive lounge is not present, the airport provides comfortable, quiet zones suitable for business travelers needing to work or relax.
- Nearby Accommodation: Several quality lodging options are available within a short drive, including the highly-rated Oceania Brest Centre, Hôtel L’Amirauté, and the convenient B&B Hotel Brest Kergaradec, catering to pre- or post-flight stays.
Airlines, Key Destinations, and 2025 Network Expansion
BES is strongly connected through a balanced mix of flag carriers and leading European low-cost airlines, emphasizing connectivity to major French hubs and Southern European leisure destinations.
- Main Operators: The core airlines operating regular services include the national carrier Air France, the rapidly expanding regional low-cost airline Volotea, Transavia, and the regional specialist Chalair Aviation.
- Core Domestic Destinations (2025): Essential routes maintain high frequency to major national centers such as Paris-Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Paris-Orly (ORY), Lyon (LYS), and Marseille (MRS).
- International and Leisure Routes: International links predominantly serve sun-drenched destinations in Southern Europe, including Lisbon and Porto (Portugal).
- Seasonal Route Highlights: Popular seasonal routes offer direct access to key vacation spots like Ajaccio and Toulon within France.
- New Route Development for 2025: Volotea continues its expansion by strengthening its presence with new or increased frequency on popular routes such as Málaga (AGP), further enhancing the airport’s European reach for leisure travelers.
Seamless Ground Transportation and Parking Solutions
Connecting from Brest Bretagne Airport to the city center and the wider Finistère region is straightforward and efficient, offering multiple modal choices.
- Bus Service (Shuttle): A dedicated shuttle bus service provides a highly cost-effective and direct link to the city center, connecting passengers to the tramway network. The journey typically takes approximately 20-25 minutes, with a standard fare currently around €1.60 – €2.00.
- Taxi Services: Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals area. The comfortable 15-minute journey to Brest city center typically costs between €25 and €30, depending on traffic and time of day.
- Car Rental: All major international car rental brands have desks within the terminal, including Hertz, Europcar, Avis, Sixt, and Enterprise, offering maximum flexibility for travelers wishing to explore the rugged Breton coastline at their own pace.
- Parking: The airport provides secure, paid parking options tailored for all needs:
- Short-Term Parking (P1/Proxi): Ideal for quick pick-ups, drop-offs, and short business trips.
- Long-Term Parking (P2/Eco): The most economical choice for travelers on longer holidays or extended business stays.
Key Contact Information and Operational Details
| Detail | Information |
| IATA Code | BES |
| ICAO Code | LFRB |
| Address | CCI Aéroport Bretagne, F-29490 Guipavas, FRANCE |
| Telephone | +33 2 98 32 86 00 |
| Official Website | www.brest.aeroport.bzh |
| Geographic Coordinates | 48° 26′ 49” N, 4° 25′ 14” W |