Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS/LFLL): The Premier Gateway to France’s Gastronomic and Alpine Regions
Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS/LFLL) is a vital international air hub located in the heart of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, approximately 25 km east of the city of Lyon. Named after the famed Lyon-born writer and aviator Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, the airport serves as the primary gateway to one of France’s most economically dynamic areas, offering direct access to Lyon’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, its globally recognized gastronomy center, and the prestigious French Alps ski resorts.
In 2024, LYS cemented its position as a leading European airport, handling over 10.4 million passengers, demonstrating robust post-pandemic recovery and continuous expansion of its route network.
Key Airport Facts and Expanding Destination Network
LYS is a crucial European transport node, connecting passengers to key global destinations. The airport continues to enhance its connectivity with strategic route expansions for the coming year.
| Fact Category | Details |
| IATA/ICAO Codes | LYS / LFLL |
| Location | Saint-Exupéry, 25 km from Lyon (45° 43′ 32” N, 5° 4′ 54” E) |
| 2024 Passenger Volume | 10.48 million passengers |
| Main Operating Airlines | Air France (Hub), easyJet, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, Emirates, and the newly welcomed Scandinavian Airlines (SAS). |
| Key Destinations (2025/2026) | Extensive domestic and international routes, including Paris (CDG), Istanbul, Dubai, London, Barcelona, Montreal, and a new direct route to Copenhagen with SAS. |
Modern Terminals, Premium Passenger Services, and Sustainability Focus
Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport operates with two interconnected, modern terminals (T1 and T2), designed to provide a seamless and efficient travel experience.
- Amenities: LYS offers a comprehensive suite of services, including high-speed, complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the terminals, extensive duty-free shopping areas featuring local and international brands, a diverse selection of restaurants, cafes, and bars that highlight Lyon’s culinary prestige, and dedicated business and VIP lounges (e.g., the Mont-Blanc Lounge).
- Accessibility: The facility is committed to inclusivity, offering full disabled access services, including specialized assistance (PMR) and accessible parking spaces.
- On-Site Accommodation: Travelers can find convenient, high-quality on-site accommodation options, such as the NH Lyon Airport and ibis Styles Lyon Saint Exupéry.
Pioneering Sustainability
As part of VINCI Airports’ commitment to environmental responsibility, Lyon-Saint Exupéry is a leader in sustainable aviation. The airport has set an ambitious goal to become the first commercial aviation airport in France to achieve the “net zero emissions” target as early as 2026, primarily through establishing a network of forest carbon sinks and optimizing energy consumption.
Efficient Ground Transportation Options
The airport is excellently connected to Lyon city center and the wider region, offering reliable transport links for all traveler needs.
- Tram (Rhônexpress): This dedicated tram-train service remains the fastest transfer option, reaching Lyon’s Part-Dieu central station in just 30 minutes. A standard adult ticket is typically around 15 EUR.
- Taxi: A taxi ride to the city center takes approximately 30 minutes, with fares generally ranging between 50–60 EUR, depending on traffic and time of day.
- Bus: Affordable bus services offer connections to Lyon and nearby regional towns, with travel times to the city center around 40 minutes and tickets priced at approximately 5 EUR.
- Car Rental & Parking: Major international car rental agencies, including Hertz, Avis, and Sixt, have desks located at the airport. Extensive paid parking facilities are available, with options ranging from short-stay (P1, P2) to long-stay economy (P4, P5).
Official Contact and Operational Information
For official correspondence and traveler assistance:
- Address: BP 113, F-69125 Lyon-Saint Exupéry Aéroport, FRANCE.
- Telephone: +33 8 26800826 (Official Information Line).
- Website: www.lyon.aeroport.fr (Official Website).
- Operation: The airport operates 24 hours a day.