La Rochelle–Île de Ré Airport (LRH/LFBH) Guide: Your Gateway to France’s Atlantic Coast
La Rochelle–Île de Ré Airport (LRH) serves as a vital international gateway situated in the picturesque Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of Western France. Strategically positioned just 3 km from La Rochelle city center and providing the closest aerial access to the stunning Île de Ré, the airport is a crucial hub for tourism and regional business.
As a high-demand regional airport, LRH successfully catered to approximately 250,000 passengers in 2024, showcasing its importance as a key connection point, especially during the peak summer season. The airport’s convenient location and modernized facilities ensure a seamless start to your Atlantic adventure.
Terminal Amenities and Services
The airport operates from a single, recently modernized terminal, designed for efficiency and passenger comfort. Significant investments were made, including the inauguration of new facilities in 2022, to enhance the passenger experience.
| Service Category | Details |
| Connectivity | Free and unlimited Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. |
| Retail & Dining | The terminal features a well-equipped café/snack bar (TRIB’S) and a duty-free shop (AELIA DUTY FREE) managed by the Lagardère group, offering a selection of perfumes, cosmetics, alcohol, and souvenirs post-security. |
| Accessibility | Comprehensive provisions are in place for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM) and disabled access, including dedicated assistance services provided by Aviapartner. |
| Aviation Services | The platform also hosts essential stakeholders like ground handling (Aviapartner), security (ICTS), a French Navy base, and the local Aero Club. |
| Accommodation | A range of accommodation options, including both upscale and budget-friendly hotels, are located within a short drive of the airport, such as the Hôtel de La Monnaie and Mercure La Rochelle Vieux Port. |
Transportation and Access Options
Connecting from LRH to La Rochelle, Île de Ré, or the surrounding Charente-Maritime department is both fast and efficient, with multiple transport options available.
- Public Bus: The airport is well-served by the Yelo Bus Network (Line 1), offering a direct and affordable connection to the city center and the main train station (Gare de La Rochelle). The journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes, with tickets costing around 1.30 EUR. Additionally, the regional Transdev Ligne 150 links La Rochelle with Île de Ré.
- Taxi and VTC: A dedicated taxi rank is located just outside the terminal. A taxi ride to the city center takes only about 5 minutes, with typical fares ranging from 10 to 15 EUR. Key taxi operators include Abeilles Taxi and ABC Taxis. VTC (private hire vehicles) services are also available.
- Car Rental: Major international car rental agencies have desks on-site, providing travelers with maximum flexibility. Companies include Avis, Europcar, Hertz, and Sixt.
- Parking: The airport provides affordable, secure on-site parking facilities for both short and long stays.
- Sustainable Mobility: Self-service bicycle and car-sharing options are available nearby, reflecting the region’s commitment to sustainable transport.
Airlines and Destinations (2025/2026 Season Updates)
La Rochelle–Île de Ré Airport is primarily served by low-cost and regional carriers, connecting the Atlantic coast to key cities across the UK, Ireland, and Continental Europe.
| Airline | Key Destinations (Seasonal & Year-Round) | Seasonal Notes (2025) |
| Ryanair | Dublin, London-Stansted, Manchester, Marrakech, Porto, Marseille, Brussels-Charleroi, Cork. | Extensive network, particularly strong connections to the UK and Ireland. |
| easyJet | London-Gatwick, Lyon, Geneva. | New Route: Geneva (Seasonal, late April to late October 2025). |
| Air France | Lyon (via HOP!) | Provides crucial year-round domestic connectivity and international onward connections via Lyon-Saint Exupéry (LYS). |
| Chalair | Bristol (Seasonal). | Focuses on regional and seasonal routes. |
Note on Flights: Most international routes operate seasonally, predominantly from Spring through Autumn (May to October), while domestic connections like Lyon often maintain a year-round presence. Passengers are advised to check the official flight schedule for the 2025/2026 season.
Airport Facts and Contact Information
For direct inquiries or official information, please use the following details:
| Fact | Detail |
| IATA / ICAO Code | LRH / LFBH |
| Official Name | Aéroport de La Rochelle – Île de Ré |
| Address | Rue du Jura, F-17000 La Rochelle, FRANCE |
| Official Website | www.larochelle.aeroport.fr |
| Information Desk | 0 892 23 01 03 50 (€0.40/min) |
| Summer Hours (Local) | Monday – Sunday: 07:30 – 22:30 |
| Winter Hours (Local) | Monday – Sunday: 07:30 – 20:30 |