Castres-Mazamet Airport (DCM): Your Gateway to the Tarn and Occitanie Region
Castres-Mazamet Airport (DCM/LFCK) serves as a vital regional link in the Occitanie region of Southern France, perfectly positioned just 7 km from the historic city center of Castres and close to Mazamet. Known for its compact size and efficiency, DCM is the primary air travel hub for the central Tarn area, providing essential connectivity for local businesses and residents.
While operating on a human scale, the airport is praised for offering a remarkably stress-free travel experience, featuring fast baggage control and boarding processes, alongside a notably welcoming staff. In 2024, the airport handled approximately 10,000 passengers, reflecting its key role as a boutique regional gateway rather than a large international hub.
Current Airlines and Essential Flight Routes (2024-2027)
The air traffic at Castres-Mazamet is primarily focused on maintaining crucial connectivity with the nation’s capital, guaranteed under a Public Service Obligation (PSO) agreement.
Main Airline:
- Chalair Aviation (operating in partnership with Air France).
Sole Direct Destination:
- Paris (Orly – ORY): The route is a lifeline for the region, operating with high frequency, including up to two daily round trips on weekdays and one rotation on Sunday. This essential service is secured under a multi-year contract running until May 2027.
Global Connectivity:
A key advantage for travelers flying from DCM is the seamless onward travel opportunities via Paris-Orly. Through Chalair’s commercial agreements with carriers like Air Caraïbes and French Bee, passengers can easily access long-haul connections to destinations in the French Caribbean (e.g., Martinique, Guadeloupe), North America (e.g., New York, San Francisco), and even Tahiti.
Location, Practical Details, and Airport Experience
DCM is located in Labruguière, a short distance from the cities it serves, making it an incredibly convenient option for travelers in the Tarn department.
| Detail | Information |
| IATA Code | DCM |
| ICAO Code | LFCK |
| Coordinates | 43° 33′ 20” N, 2° 17′ 3” E |
| Experience | Highly praised for its efficiency, quick check-in, and friendly staff. |
| Military Role | The airport is also crucial for the regional defense sector, facilitating training operations for the 8th Marine Infantry Parachute Regiment (8e RPIMa). |
On-Site Facilities and Passenger Services
As a small regional facility, the terminal focuses on essential efficiency and speed, rather than extensive commercial amenities.
- Terminal: The airport operates with one small, functional terminal.
- Amenities: Free Wi-Fi is available for passenger use. Limited services are offered, with no dedicated café on site, so travelers should plan accordingly.
- Accessibility: Limited disabled access services are provided.
- Nearby Accommodation: Travelers can find convenient options nearby, such as Hôtel Renaissance and Hôtel Le Miredames.
Ground Transportation: Getting To and From DCM
The airport’s proximity to Castres and its excellent parking provision make local transit straightforward.
- Parking: A significant benefit for local travelers is the provision of Free Parking spaces directly at the airport.
- Taxi: A taxi ride to the Castres city center is fast, taking approximately 10 minutes, with an estimated cost between €15–€20.
- Bus: A limited local bus service connects the airport to Castres in about 15 minutes, with a low fare (typically around €2).
- Car Rental: Services are available on-site, typically managed by limited local or regional firms.
Official Contact Information
For official inquiries and communication regarding flights, services, or general information:
| Contact Type | Details |
| Address | 595 Rue Jacques Monod, 81290 Labruguière, FRANCE |
| Telephone | +33 5 63 70 34 77 |
| Official Website | http://aeroport81.fr/ |