Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport (BOD/LFBD): Your Premier Gateway to the World-Renowned Bordeaux Wine Region
Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport (BOD/LFBD) stands as the principal international airport serving the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region and the fifth busiest regional air hub in France. Strategically positioned in Mérignac, just 12 km west of the Bordeaux city centre, it is the essential entry point for millions of tourists and business travellers heading to the globally celebrated Bordeaux wine country and the city’s UNESCO World Heritage sites. The airport successfully handled approximately 4 million passengers in 2024, highlighting its crucial role in the region’s transport infrastructure.
Airport at a Glance: Key Facts and Figures
As a dynamic and continually expanding hub, BOD serves as a vital economic engine for the southwest of France. Its consistent traffic growth underscores its increasing importance as a connection point, linking this historically rich region with major European and international destinations. The airport is committed to delivering a high-quality, efficient travel experience that reflects the prestige of the Bordeaux metropolitan area.
Terminal Guide: Navigating Halls A, B, and the Efficient Billi Terminal
Bordeaux Airport operates a multi-terminal structure designed to cater efficiently to various passenger profiles, from flag carriers to budget airlines:
- Hall A (International & Scheduled Flights): Primarily serves major international routes and larger scheduled carriers. It features a broad range of passenger services, including premium dining options and duty-free shopping.
- Hall B (Air France & Key Domestic Flights): Mostly dedicated to flights operated by Air France and its partners, facilitating seamless connections within the French domestic network.
- Billi (Bordeaux Illi, The Low-Cost Terminal): This purpose-built, highly efficient terminal is dedicated entirely to low-cost carriers. Billi offers a streamlined experience focusing on rapid turnaround and essential services, ensuring quick and cost-effective travel for budget-conscious passengers.
All terminals are connected and provide essential facilities, including free high-speed Wi-Fi access (typically for the first two hours), extensive duty-free and specialised wine shops, and diverse dining establishments showcasing local Bordeaux gastronomy.
Connectivity and Flight Network: 85+ Destinations Across Europe and Beyond
BOD boasts a robust route network, offering direct access to over 85 destinations across more than 25 countries. The airport is instrumental in connecting the region globally:
- Main Airline Partners: Key operators include flag carriers like Air France alongside major European low-cost and budget airlines such as easyJet, Volotea, Transavia, and major international carriers like Turkish Airlines.
- Major Route Highlights: The network encompasses major European capital hubs (e.g., Paris-CDG, London-Gatwick, Istanbul), key Mediterranean destinations (e.g., Marrakech), and seasonal transatlantic services (e.g., Montreal).
- Network Updates (2025): The route map remains dynamic; easyJet is confirmed to launch new services to Scotland starting June 2025. Passengers should note that Ryanair ceased operations at the airport in November 2024.
Seamless Ground Transportation: New Tramway Link and Efficient City Transfers
Reaching the city centre and major transport hubs from BOD is now easier than ever, thanks to significant infrastructure upgrades:
- Bordeaux Tramway Line A (New Connection): The most significant recent development is the extension of Tramway Line A directly to the airport. This new connection provides a fast, reliable, and traffic-free route to the city centre and its wider public transport network.
- Airport Shuttle (30direct): This dedicated service offers a rapid connection to the Bordeaux Saint-Jean train station (the region’s TGV hub) in approximately 30 minutes, with fares around 8 EUR.
- Public Bus (Lianes 1+): An economical option connecting the airport to the city centre in about 30 minutes for a standard public transport fare (~1.70 EUR).
- Taxi Services: Taxis are readily available outside the terminals, with a journey to the city centre typically taking 25 minutes (traffic permitting) and costing 25–35 EUR. Travel Advisory: Passengers should check for local travel advisories, as historical issues like the anticipated taxi protests on June 4–5, 2025, can cause disruption.
- Car Rental & Parking: Major rental agencies, including Avis, Hertz, and Sixt, operate on-site. Parking options are categorised by duration: P0 (short-term proximity), P1/P2 (mid-term), and P4 (long-term, served by a complimentary shuttle).
Premium Passenger Services and Amenities
BOD enhances the travel experience with dedicated services for comfort and efficiency:
- Executive Lounges: The airport offers comfortable executive lounges for business and premium travellers, accessible through specific airline statuses, Priority Pass, or paid entry.
- Family Facilities: Dedicated children’s play areas and comprehensive facilities for families travelling with infants are available.
- Business Facilities: The airport provides conference rooms and meeting facilities, catering to business travellers flying in for meetings in the region.
- Accommodation: Immediate vicinity hotels like the Novotel Bordeaux Aéroport and Mercure Bordeaux Aéroport offer convenient overnight stays.
Sustainable Aviation: BOD’s Environmental Commitment
Bordeaux Airport is committed to a green future, aligning with global sustainable aviation goals. The airport has implemented comprehensive sustainability projects aimed at reducing its overall carbon footprint:
- Carbon Reduction Goal: The airport targets a 20% reduction in carbon emissions as part of its ongoing environmental strategy for 2025.
- Eco-Friendly Infrastructure: Initiatives include the installation of extensive solar panel arrays to power airport operations and the systematic shift toward using electric ground vehicles for fleet and servicing operations, supporting a transition to cleaner energy.
Essential Airport Information and Contact Details
| Detail | Information |
| IATA Code | BOD |
| ICAO Code | LFBD |
| Address | Cidex 40, F-33700 Mérignac, FRANCE |
| Telephone | +33 5 56345050 |
| Official Website | www.bordeaux.aeroport.fr |
| Coordinates | 44° 49′ 45” N, 0° 42′ 51” W |