Caen – Carpiquet Airport (CFR/LFRK): The Essential Gateway to Normandy’s History and Coastline
Caen – Carpiquet Airport (CFR/LFRK) is a vital regional air hub situated in Carpiquet, conveniently located just 6 km west of the Caen city center. As the primary airport for the historic Calvados department, it serves as an indispensable access point to the heart of the Normandy region, connecting travelers directly to the area’s rich history, particularly the famous D-Day landing beaches, war memorials, and the Bayeux Tapestry.
The airport focuses on efficient regional and seasonal services, playing a crucial role in local tourism and business travel. In 2024, despite global market fluctuations, Caen-Carpiquet reported robust activity, handling 291,326 passengers. This figure solidifies its position as a key entry point for visitors looking to explore the region’s profound World War II legacy and scenic coastline.
Updated Key Figures and Strategic Significance
The airport’s strategic location (49° 10′ 23” N, 0° 26′ 53” W) is key to its appeal. While primarily a domestic airport, it serves as a powerful economic catalyst for the Calvados department and the greater Normandy area.
| Detail | Information |
| IATA Code | CFR |
| ICAO Code | LFRK |
| Primary Focus | Regional, Domestic, and Seasonal Leisure Flights |
| 2024 Passenger Traffic | 291,326 passengers |
| Key Historical Link | Direct access point for World War II D-Day sites |
2025 Flight Network: Airlines and Direct Destinations
Caen-Carpiquet is well-served by major low-cost and regional carriers, ensuring competitive pricing and good connectivity across France and select international routes.
The main airlines operating out of CFR are:
- Volotea: The primary low-cost carrier, focusing heavily on leisure routes.
- Air France (operated by Chalair Aviation): Providing essential year-round connectivity, particularly to the Lyon hub.
Direct scheduled destinations for 2025 include major French metropolitan and seasonal Corsican cities, along with a newly established international route:
| Destination City | Airport Code | Primary Carrier(s) | Notes |
| Lyon | LYS | Air France / Chalair | Year-round, highest frequency route. |
| Marseille | MRS | Volotea | Year-round leisure and business link. |
| Nice | NCE | Volotea | Key connection to the French Riviera. |
| Toulouse | TLS | Volotea | Route to the South-West of France. |
| Montpellier | MPL | Volotea | Connection to the Mediterranean coast. |
| Ajaccio | AJA | Volotea, Air France / Chalair | Seasonal route to Corsica. |
| Bastia | BIA | Volotea | Seasonal route to Northern Corsica. |
| Figari | FSC | Volotea | Seasonal route to Southern Corsica. |
| Kerry, Ireland | KIR | Chalair | New International Route (Seasonal) |
Terminal Facilities and Essential Passenger Services
Caen Airport features one modern, compact terminal designed for quick and easy passenger flow, minimizing connection times and stress. While small, it provides key services for both business and leisure travelers:
- Connectivity: Free, high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal.
- Food & Beverage: A Café offers snacks, hot and cold drinks, and light meals.
- Accessibility: The terminal provides essential services for Persons with Reduced Mobility (PRM), though it is advised to notify the airline in advance.
- Shopping: Note that CFR does not feature extensive duty-free or retail outlets, maintaining its focus on efficiency.
- Accommodation: Several well-rated hotels are located nearby, including Hôtel Ivan Vautier and Mercure Caen Centre, offering convenient pre- or post-flight stays.
Seamless Ground Transportation to Caen and Beyond
Traveling between the airport and the Caen city center or other Normandy destinations is straightforward and efficient, thanks to excellent transport links.
- Bus Services: Regular bus transfers connect the terminal directly to Caen’s city center, with a travel time of approximately 15 minutes and a low fare typically around 2 EUR.
- Taxi: Taxi ranks are located just outside the terminal exit. A ride to the city center takes approximately 10 minutes, with an estimated fare between 15–20 EUR.
- Car Rental: For those exploring the vast landscapes of Normandy, major car hire agencies such as Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise operate desks on-site, allowing immediate collection and drop-off.
- Parking: The airport offers free parking facilities for both short-term and long-term stays, a notable advantage for regional travelers.
Contact Information and Airport Details
For the most up-to-date information, flight status checks, and booking inquiries, please use the official channels:
- Address: Route de Caumont, F-14650 Carpiquet, FRANCE
- Telephone: +33 2 31712010
- Official Website: www.caen.aeroport.fr