Nantes Atlantique Airport (NTE): Your Premier Gateway to Brittany and Western France
Nantes Atlantique Airport (NTE/LFRS) is a critical international airport and the leading air hub for the Pays de la Loire region, serving as the main transport entry point to Western France. Conveniently situated in Bouguenais, the airport lies approximately 8 km (5 miles) southwest of the vibrant Nantes city center. Known for its dynamic growth and efficient, single-terminal operation, NTE seamlessly connects millions of travelers to the historic châteaux of the Loire Valley, the cultural heart of Nantes, and the stunning Atlantic coastline.
Key Airport Information and Operational Facts
Nantes Atlantique Airport is recognized for its focused infrastructure, which streamlines the passenger experience.
- IATA/ICAO Codes: NTE / LFRS
- Location: Bouguenais, 44346, France
- Terminal Structure: The airport operates with a single, continually modernized terminal building designed for efficiency. Future plans include significant infrastructural expansion to boost capacity and passenger comfort.
- Operating Hours: NTE maintains 24-hour operation, accommodating a wide range of scheduled and charter flights, making it a reliable hub for early morning departures and late-night arrivals.
- Passenger Traffic: While pre-pandemic levels peaked at over 7.2 million passengers (2019), recent figures show a strong recovery, positioning NTE as the largest airport in Western France and a key player in the national network, currently serving approximately 6.5 million annual passengers (2024 estimates).
Leading Airlines and Exciting New Routes for 2025/2026
Nantes Atlantique Airport is a major operational base for several key carriers, offering direct flights to over 100 destinations across Europe, North Africa, and the French Caribbean.
- Main Airline Bases: NTE serves as a significant base for Volotea and Transavia France, providing extensive domestic and leisure routes.
- Prominent Carriers: Other major airlines include easyJet, Ryanair, Air France, TAP Air Portugal, Iberia, and Vueling, ensuring comprehensive connectivity across all major European capitals.
- Enhanced Connectivity & Strategic Routes: To further expand its international reach, NTE has continuously added new, high-demand routes. Potential or recent additions include increased service to:
- Eastern Europe: Destinations like Bucharest, Romania, and Krakow, Poland.
- Mediterranean: Enhanced seasonal services to popular spots like Chania (Greece), Palma de Mallorca (Spain), and Olbia (Italy).
- Business Hubs: Frequent flights to major European business centers such as London-Stansted/Gatwick, Munich, and Amsterdam.
Enhanced Passenger Services and Modern Facilities at NTE
Despite its single-terminal design, NTE offers a comprehensive range of modern services focused on comfort, convenience, and efficiency.
- Digital Connectivity: Free, unlimited high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, including check-in, departure, and arrival areas.
- Shopping & Dining: Passengers can enjoy a variety of retail experiences, from duty-free shopping on international goods to stores offering local artisanal products from the Pays de la Loire region. Dining options range from quick grab-and-go cafes to refined French brasserie-style restaurants serving local specialties.
- Premium Services & Lounges: The airport provides a Fast-Track service to bypass security queues efficiently. Business travelers and those seeking extra comfort can access the dedicated airport lounge (e.g., the Salons VIP), offering a quiet space, complimentary snacks, and business amenities.
- Accessibility & Assistance: The airport is fully equipped to assist Passengers with Reduced Mobility (PRM), offering continuous assistance from arrival to boarding.
- Essential Amenities: Services include currency exchange, an information desk, an infirmary, and designated family zones.
Effortless Transportation Options to Nantes City Center
Connecting Nantes Atlantique Airport to the city center and surrounding areas is quick and efficient via multiple transport modes.
- Airport Shuttle (Navette Aéroport): This dedicated express shuttle (often operated by TAN) is the quickest public option. It links the airport directly to the main train station (Nantes SNCF South) and the Commerce central city hub in approximately 20-30 minutes. Fares are typically around €10 one-way and often include a pass valid for one hour on the local TAN public transport network.
- Taxi and VTC Services: Taxis are readily available outside the terminal. A ride to the city center generally takes 15-20 minutes, with an estimated fare of €30–€40, depending on traffic and time of day. Pre-booked private transfers (VTC) are also popular.
- Public Bus Network: Local bus routes (e.g., Line 48 and 98) offer a more economical, though slightly longer, alternative for accessing the wider Nantes metropolitan area.
- Car Rental & Parking: Major international and local car rental agencies, including Hertz, Avis, Europcar, and Sixt, have desks within the terminal. The airport offers multiple paid parking solutions:
- Short-Term Parking (P0): Closest to the terminal for quick drop-offs and pickups.
- Long-Term Parking (P1, P2, P3): Located further away with competitive rates, often connected by a free shuttle service.
Discover the Pays de la Loire: Beyond the Terminal
Nantes Atlantique Airport is the ideal starting point for travelers keen to explore the rich culture, history, and innovation of the Pays de la Loire region.
- Nantes City: A visit is incomplete without seeing the medieval Château des Ducs de Bretagne and the utterly unique and fantastical mechanical creatures of Les Machines de l’Île.
- Loire Valley: The airport provides easy access to the western stretch of the Loire Valley, renowned for its spectacular castles and world-famous vineyards.
- Atlantic Coast: Travel west to explore the vibrant coastal towns and pristine beaches of the French Atlantic, such as La Baule.
Contact and Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
| Official Website | www.nantes.aeroport.fr |
| Address | F-44346 Bouguenais, FRANCE |
| Flight Information | +33 (0) 240 848 152 |
| Main Function | International gateway to Western France (Pays de la Loire) |