Saint-Étienne–Bouthéon Airport (EBU/LFMH): Hub for Business and General Aviation in the Loire Region
Saint-Étienne–Bouthéon Airport (Aéroport de Saint-Étienne–Bouthéon), identified by IATA code EBU and ICAO code LFMH, serves the city of Saint-Étienne and the wider Loire department in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France. Conveniently located in Andrézieux-Bouthéon, the facility is approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) northwest of Saint-Étienne’s city center, offering swift access for regional businesses and private travelers.
While the airport historically catered to low-cost commercial airlines, its primary role has evolved. It now functions predominantly as a regional hub for General Aviation (GA), business flights, maintenance activities, and occasional holiday charter services. This strategic positioning makes it an essential asset for corporate and private travel within the Rhône-Alpes economic corridor.
Current Operations and Flight Status (Updated for 2024/2025)
The operational focus of Saint-Étienne–Bouthéon Airport has shifted significantly in recent years.
| Category | Status (2024/2025) | Details |
| Scheduled Commercial Flights | Temporarily Suspended | As of late 2024, the airport does not offer regular, scheduled passenger services. Major routes and carriers (like previous services to Porto, Fez, and Barcelona) have been reallocated. |
| Primary Activity | General Aviation & Business | The airport is highly utilized by corporate jets, air taxi services, and private aircraft. |
| Charter Services | Seasonal/Occasional | The airport continues to handle ad-hoc charter flights, especially during peak holiday seasons or for sporting events, often serving Mediterranean destinations. |
| Alternative Hub | Lyon–Saint-Exupéry (LYS) | Passengers seeking comprehensive scheduled services are advised to use Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport, located approximately 77 km (48 miles) to the northeast. |
Airlines that occasionally operate charter services or have previously served EBU include Ryanair and Pegasus Airlines, primarily focusing on European and North African routes.
Terminal Facilities and Guest Services
EBU features a single, streamlined terminal building designed to efficiently handle General and Business Aviation traffic, while still accommodating smaller passenger flows from charter flights.
- Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, ensuring seamless connectivity for business travelers.
- Dining: An on-site café provides light refreshments, snacks, and beverages.
- Accessibility: The airport provides limited disabled access. Travelers requiring special assistance are highly encouraged to notify the airport or their charter operator in advance.
- Security & Efficiency: The terminal offers quick turnarounds, which is a major advantage for private and corporate flights.
Ground Transportation and Accessibility
The airport is well-connected to Saint-Étienne and other regional centers via road network, making transfers quick and straightforward.
- Taxi: Taxis offer the fastest direct connection, with an estimated travel time of 15 minutes to the city center. Fares typically range between 15–25 EUR, depending on the time of day and traffic.
- Bus Services: Regional bus links connect the airport to Saint-Étienne’s central transport hubs. The journey takes approximately 20 minutes, with affordable single tickets usually around 2 EUR.
- Car Rental: Major international car rental firms, including Hertz and Avis, have service desks available at the airport for onward travel into the wider Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.
- Parking: Secure, paid parking facilities are available directly adjacent to the terminal for both short-term and extended stays.
Location, Contact Information, and Local Highlights
Saint-Étienne–Bouthéon Airport provides an excellent starting point for exploring the region’s cultural, industrial, and natural attractions.
- Nearby Attractions:
- Geoffroy-Guichard Stadium: Home to the AS Saint-Étienne football club, ideal for sports fans.
- Pilat Natural Regional Park (Parc Naturel Régional du Pilat): A vast area of forests, mountains, and hiking trails, offering spectacular natural beauty just a short drive away.
- Cité du Design: Reflecting Saint-Étienne’s status as a UNESCO City of Design, this museum complex showcases the city’s industrial and creative heritage.
- Recommended Nearby Accommodation:
- Hôtel ibis Saint-Étienne Centre Gare
- Novotel Saint-Étienne Centre
- Contact Information:
- Address: F-42160 Andrezieux Bouthéon, FRANCE
- Phone: +33 4 77 55 71 71
- Website: www.saint-etienne.aeroport.fr