Boutheon Airport

Saint-Étienne–Bouthéon Airport is a compact and convenient gateway to the Loire department, located in the commune of Andrézieux-Bouthéon. Despite its modest size, it serves as an important facility for the city of the same name and the entire Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, which is part of France. This airport is ideal for those who value a quick and calm completion of all formalities, and its location allows for easy access to one of the country's significant industrial and cultural centres.

The main advantage of Bouthéon Airport is its compactness and convenience. Passengers do not have to spend much time moving through the terminal, checking in, and passing through security control, making the journey more comfortable. The airport offers basic services, including car rental desks featuring companies such as Avis and Europcar, allowing tourists to set off on an independent journey through the region immediately after arrival. Free parking for charter flight passengers is also a pleasant bonus. Although scheduled air service has been limited in recent years, the airport continues to play an important role for business aviation and seasonal charter programmes.

Contact Bouthéon Airport (EBU) in the way most convenient for you. Below is the main contact information. We recommend always checking the relevance of the data on official resources before your trip, as details may change.

• Official Website: You will find the latest information on flights, services, and rules on the official website of Saint-Étienne Bouthéon Airport.
• Information Desk Phone: For consultations and answers to general questions, call: +33 4 77 55 71 71.
• Airport Address: Aéroport de Saint-Etienne Bouthéon, 42160 Andrézieux-Bouthéon, France.
• Email: For written inquiries, you can use the e-mail: contact@saint-etienne.aeroport.fr.
• Social Media: You can follow news and updates on the airport's official Facebook page (search by the name "Aéroport de Saint-Etienne").
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you must first contact your airline's representative. Additionally, you can contact the airport service via email: litiges.bagages@saint-etienne.aeroport.fr.
• Passenger Support Contacts: To resolve issues related to your journey, use the main phone number (+33 4 77 55 71 71) or the airport's email.

Saint-Étienne – Bouthéon Airport (EBU) is located approximately 12 kilometres northwest of the city centre of Saint-Étienne, making the journey there quick and convenient. Travellers can choose from several transport options to get to or from the terminal, depending on their budget, time, and preferences.

Public Transport. The most budget-friendly method is the bus. Route No. 37 of the local transport network STAS connects the airport with the "Hôpital Nord" stop. From there, you can transfer to tram lines T1 or T2, which go directly to the city centre and the main railway station, Châteaucreux. The journey by public transport will take about 40–50 minutes. This is an excellent choice for economical travellers travelling light.

Taxi and Transfer. For maximum convenience and speed, a taxi is best suited. The trip from the centre of Saint-Étienne to the airport will take approximately 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The cost of a trip during the day is usually 30–40 euros, but it may be higher at night, on weekends, and during public holidays. You can also pre-book a private transfer so that a driver meets you at a designated location.

Car Rental. If you plan to explore the picturesque Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region in France, renting a car would be the ideal solution. Desks of several international and local rental companies operate at the airport. Having a car will give you complete freedom of movement and allow you to comfortably visit not only Saint-Étienne but also other interesting places.

Airport Parking. For those arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, parking zones are provided. There are options for both short-term and long-term parking at reasonable prices, which is convenient if you are leaving your car for the duration of your trip.

It is important to note that Bouthéon Airport primarily serves domestic and charter flights. Consequently, many tourists travelling to the region often fly into larger airports. The main alternative is Lyon-Saint Exupéry International Airport (LYS), located just 65 km away. Another major international hub is Geneva Airport (GVA), situated on the border with Switzerland. Among other nearby air harbours that may be convenient for travel are Clermont-Ferrand Auvergne Airport (CFE), Chambéry Airport (CMF), and the small regional Le Puy – Loudes Airport (LPY).

Saint-Étienne – Bouthéon Airport (EBU) is distinguished by its compactness and convenience for passengers. All its infrastructure is concentrated in one passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights, including charter and seasonal destinations. Such an organisation makes the airport intuitive and eliminates the need for long walks.

The terminal layout is very simple and logical. Navigation will not cause difficulties even for those visiting for the first time. Since there is only one terminal, there is no need for transfers or shuttles — all zones are within walking distance. Check-in counters, the security screening area, boarding gates, and the arrival zone are located close to each other.

The departure zone and arrival zone are clearly separated but located in the same building. After checking in for a flight, passengers proceed to the first floor, where a small waiting lounge, security checkpoint, and boarding gate are located. The arrival zone with a baggage claim belt and customs control is situated on the ground floor, with a separate exit to the parking area and transport stops.

The main feature of the terminal is its small size, which is rather an advantage. Check-in and screening procedures here take place significantly faster than in large airports. As a rule, all formalities take no more than 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before the departure of international flights and 1 hour before domestic ones to pass through all stages without haste.

For easy navigation, follow the signs, which are duplicated in English. Given the compactness of the airport, getting lost here is practically impossible. All key points — from the entrance to the boarding gate — are in sight, creating a calm and comfortable atmosphere before the flight.

The history of Saint-Étienne–Bouthéon Airport (EBU), officially known as Aéroport de Saint-Étienne–Bouthéon, began in 1962. It was then that the first commercial flight was operated, opening a new chapter in the transport connectivity of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. Initially, the airport was created to serve the dynamically developing industrial centre of Saint-Étienne and the entire Loire department, providing business and tourism links with other parts of France and Europe.

A key stage in the airport's development was the entry of low-cost airlines into the market in the early 2000s. Carriers such as Ryanair and Pegasus Airlines established regular connections with the UK, Ireland, Portugal, and Turkey, leading to a significant increase in passenger traffic. During this period, the airport reached peak figures, serving hundreds of thousands of travellers per year. However, the airport's history also saw periods of decline associated with the departure of key carriers and high competition from the larger Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport.

Throughout its history, the airport has been modernised repeatedly to meet modern safety and passenger comfort requirements. Reconstructions of the terminal were carried out, and the runway infrastructure and navigation equipment were improved. Despite fluctuating success in commercial transport, Bouthéon Airport has always played an important role as a base for business aviation, aero clubs, and air ambulance services, confirming its strategic importance for the region.

An interesting fact: the airport's name reflects its geographical position. It is located in the territory of the commune of Andrézieux-Bouthéon, but its primary mission is to serve the Saint-Étienne agglomeration, which is enshrined in its full name. This duality emphasises its regional character and aspiration to be the air gateway for the entire department.

Bouthéon Airport (EBU), serving the city of Saint-Étienne in France, is a compact and functional air terminal offering passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its small size, you can find a cosy café here where travellers can have a bite to eat, drink coffee, or purchase light snacks for the journey. There is also a small shop with essential goods and souvenirs in the airport.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. The waiting lounge has zones for charging electronic devices so you can prepare your gadgets for the flight. Financial services are represented by ATMs where you can withdraw cash. For currency exchange, it is recommended to visit bank branches in Saint-Étienne.

The airport cares about the comfort of all categories of passengers. A mother and child room is equipped for travellers with small children. Passengers with reduced mobility can count on special assistance and accompaniment from the airport staff — it is recommended to notify the airline of your needs in advance. There is also a first aid point on the premises.

Although there are no VIP lounges or hotels within the airport building itself, business travellers and tourists can find everything they need in the immediate vicinity. Many hotels of various price categories are located near the airport and in the city of Saint-Étienne itself. Some of them offer conference rooms and business centres for meetings and events.

Bouthéon Airport (EBU), serving the city of Saint-Étienne, offers passengers several options for a snack or a full meal. Although the selection here is not as wide as in major international hubs, you certainly won't go hungry. The main dining points are concentrated in the public area before passing through security control.

The main establishment in the airport is the restaurant located in the central hall. This is a versatile place where you can quickly have coffee with a croissant before departure or dine leisurely while waiting for your flight. Its opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule: it opens with the first morning flights and closes after the last evening departure.

In the menu, you will find classic dishes of French and European cuisine. For a quick snack, sandwiches, salads, quiches, and fresh pastries are offered. If you have more time, pay attention to the dish of the day (plat du jour) or other hot items. This is a great opportunity to try local products, as France is famous for its gastronomy. Sometimes specialties of the region, such as cheeses or local meat delicacies, can be found on the menu.

For travellers with special dietary needs, the choice may be limited. Vegetarian options are generally available in the form of salads or sandwiches with cheese and vegetables. Regarding vegan, gluten-free, or halal dishes, it is recommended to check their availability directly with the establishment's staff. After passing security control (in the departure zone), dining options are usually limited to vending machines with drinks and snacks, so it is better to eat properly in advance.

The price range at Bouthéon Airport corresponds to average figures for European airports — the cost of dishes and drinks here is higher than in the city but remains acceptable. If you are looking for a full lunch, expect an average bill of 20-30 euros per person, while a quick snack with a drink will cost approximately 10-15 euros.

To make your journey through Bouthéon Airport in the city of Saint-Étienne as comfortable as possible, use our tips. This is a small regional airport, so orienting yourself here is quite simple. We advise arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before the departure of international flights and 1.5–2 hours before domestic ones. This time will be enough to check in, drop off luggage, and pass security control without haste, setting off on a journey through France or beyond its borders.

To save time, complete online check-in if your airline provides such a service. Upon arrival at the airport, you will only need to hand over your luggage at the special counter (baggage drop-off) and head to the security checkpoint. Keep your passport and boarding pass ready. Although queues here are usually shorter than in major hubs, foresight is never superfluous.

Pay close attention to packing your hand luggage. All liquids (gels, creams, aerosols) must be in containers with a volume of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag measuring approximately 20x20 cm. It is prohibited to carry sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances in the cabin. Valuable items, documents, medicines, and electronics should always be kept with you in your hand luggage.

When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences. A seat by the window will offer beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while a seat by the aisle will allow you to stand up freely and stretch your legs during the flight. If a quick exit from the plane upon arrival is important to you, choose seats in the front part of the cabin.

If you have a connecting flight, check in advance whether you need to collect your luggage in Saint-Étienne. With through check-in (when all flight segments are on one ticket), luggage is usually automatically transferred to the next flight. If you have two separate tickets, you will have to collect your suitcases, pass customs, and check in again for the next flight. In the airport, follow the signs for "Correspondances" (Transfers).

When arriving from a country outside the Schengen area, you will have to pass customs control. If you do not have goods to declare, feel free to go through the "Green" channel (Rien à déclarer). If you are carrying goods exceeding established limits (for example, tobacco products) or large amounts of cash, you must choose the "Red" channel and declare them.

To save a little, take an empty reusable water bottle with you — it can be filled at drinking fountains after the security zone. Prices for food and drinks in airports are often inflated, so a light snack brought from home will help save your budget. Booking a taxi or transfer online in advance may also turn out to be cheaper than looking for a car on the spot.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, remain calm. First of all, follow the information on the departure boards and contact your airline representative. Remember that passengers departing from EU airports are protected by Regulation (EC) No 261/2004. Depending on the length of the delay and the flight distance, it may entitle you to meals, drinks, and even hotel accommodation at the airline's expense.