Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport
France's third-busiest airport and a key hub for the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.
Overview of the Airport
Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS) is located 20 km southeast of Lyon city center in Colombier-Saugnieu. It serves as the principal international gateway for Lyon and the surrounding region, connecting over 130 destinations across 46 countries. The airport is accessible via the Rhônexpress tram and features a high-speed rail station for direct TGV connections.
45.72556, 5.08111
Growth Trend
Passenger traffic increased by 89.4% year-over-year, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
Employment
8,500
Employees include airline staff, ground handling, security, retail, and airport operations personnel.
Global Ranking
Market Share of Major Airlines
Capacity Expansion
Recent expansions and new routes have increased terminal and airside capacity to support over 11 million passengers annually.
Technological Advancements
Deployment of biometric boarding, automated baggage handling, and AI-driven passenger flow management enhances efficiency.
Sustainability Initiatives
Achieved net zero carbon emissions in 2025 through renewable energy, biogas heating, and fleet electrification.
General Stats
Official statistics page for Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS) from its operator, VINCI Airports.
View General Stats →Port Facts
No direct port or freight gateway facts pages were found specifically near Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS) in Lyon, France. The closest major port is Fos-sur-Mer, approximately 160 km (99 miles) away.
View Port Facts →General Studies
Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport's official page details its ambitious action plan to reduce carbon emissions and achieve net-zero carbon emissions for stakeholder-related emissions (Scope 3) by 2050.
View General Studies →Latest News & Updates
Recent developments and updates for Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport.
Lyon Airport announces record passenger numbers in 2023
Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS) reported a significant increase in passenger numbers for 2023, marking a strong recovery after the pandemic. The airport attributed the growth to increased demand for leisure and business travel.
Air France to increase flights to Lyon from Paris as part of new partnership
Air France is expanding its operations at Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS) with a new partnership, increasing flight frequency from Paris. This move aims to cater to growing demand and offer passengers more convenient connections.
Lyon Airport to get new digital check-in kiosks
Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS) is investing in new digital check-in kiosks to improve passenger experience and reduce queues. The investment reflects the airport's commitment to modernization and efficiency.
Operations Logistics & Timelines
Step-by-step process transit times for passengers and cargo.
For Clients
Passenger process times from arrival to gate.
- Arrival at Terminal 15-10 mins
- Customs & Immigration30-60 mins
- Luggage Claim15-30 mins
- Walking to LYS Beauty Store5-10 mins
- Browsing LYS Beauty Products10-20 mins
For Employees
Cargo handling deadlines and operational procedures.
- General Cargo Cut-off (Domestic)90 minutes pre-departure
- General Cargo Cut-off (International)60 minutes pre-departure
- Dangerous Goods (DG) Submission Cut-offVaries - Check with Operations
- Live Animals Cut-offVaries - Check with Operations
- Palletized Cargo Cut-off45 minutes pre-departure
- Oversized Cargo Cut-off24 hours pre-departure
- Security BriefingDaily - Check Flight Schedule
- Load Planning MeetingDaily - Check Flight Schedule
- Airport Operational HoursVariable - Dependent on Flight Schedule
- Weight and Balance RequirementsStrictly Adhered To
- Cargo Security ProtocolsMandatory - Training Required
- Luggage Handling CoordinationIntegrated with Passenger Operations
Passengers' Tips & Tricks
- 1
Arrive Early for Security
Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS) can experience significant security queues, especially during peak hours. Allow at least 2 hours for international flights and 1.5 hours for domestic flights to avoid unnecessary stress and potential missed flights.
- 2
Utilize the Airport Lounges
If you have access or wish to purchase a day pass, airport lounges (e.g., Air France Lounge, Plaza Premium Lounges) offer comfortable seating, complimentary refreshments, Wi-Fi, and sometimes even showers – a welcome respite from the crowds.
- 3
Check Baggage Allowance Carefully
Before you pack, double-check the specific baggage allowance rules for your airline and ticket class. Excess baggage fees at LYS can be substantial, and it’s crucial to be aware of weight and size restrictions.
- 4
Explore the Shopping & Dining Options
LYS offers a decent selection of shops and restaurants, especially in Terminal 1. Take some time before your flight to grab a meal or purchase souvenirs – the options can be limited within the airport itself.
- 5
Download Offline Maps and Entertainment
Ensure you have downloaded offline maps of the airport and any necessary entertainment (movies, podcasts) onto your devices. This will help you navigate efficiently and stay entertained during potential delays or long boarding times.
Cargo Tips & Tricks
- 1
Understand Luggage Allowance & Fees
Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport has specific luggage allowance rules depending on your airline and ticket type. Check your airline's website thoroughly *before* you travel to avoid unexpected fees for oversized or excess baggage. Weight and size limits are strictly enforced.
- 2
Utilize the Baggage Drop-Off Services
LYS offers efficient baggage drop-off services at various locations within the airport, including dedicated counters for major airlines. This can save you time and hassle, especially if you're connecting flights or traveling with a lot of luggage.
- 3
Navigating the Terminal - Terminal 1 & 2
Lyon-Saint-Exupéry Airport is divided into Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Ensure you're checking in at the correct terminal before proceeding to your departure gate. Terminal 1 primarily handles long-haul flights, while Terminal 2 handles short and medium-haul.
- 4
Ground Transportation Options
Several ground transportation options are readily available at LYS, including taxis, buses (e.g., the 91 bus to the city center), and car rental services. Plan your transfer in advance to avoid delays and consider the cost and convenience of each option.
- 5
Check for Airport Services & Amenities
LYS provides various services like currency exchange, ATMs, restaurants, and shops. Familiarize yourself with their locations and operating hours to prepare for your trip. Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport.
Tools & Resources
Essential tools, portals, and resources for clients and partners.
Data & Reports
Official statistics, research reports, and data tracking for Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport.
Departures from Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport
Displays the latest departures and flight status information for Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport.
LyonStExuperyAirportGuide - All Information onLyonStExupery...
Provides general information about Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport, including its location and proximity to Lyon.
Distance FromLyonSaint-ExupéryAirportto Yangon International...
Calculates the distance between Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport and Yangon International Airport.
AэропортLyon(LYS) Монпелье
Details train routes from Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport to Montpellier.
Location & Maps
Find Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport on popular mapping services.
Interactive Map
Map Legend
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Recommendations
Policy Alignment
Continue collaboration with national and EU authorities to secure funding for green infrastructure and digital transformation.
Infrastructure Investment
Focus on terminal modernization, runway upgrades, and intermodal connectivity to support future growth.
Sustainability Focus
Accelerate adoption of renewable energy and circular economy practices to meet advanced environmental standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common inquiries about operations and logistics at Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport.
What is the passenger process like at Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport (LYS)?
Passengers arriving at LYS typically follow a standard arrival process. After deplaning, you’ll proceed through immigration and customs. Baggage claim is located on the upper level, corresponding to the carousel number indicated on your boarding pass. There are also car rental agencies, taxi stands, and public transport connections readily available outside the terminal. For departing passengers, check-in counters are located in the departure hall, and security screening is located after check-in. Allow ample time for security, especially during peak travel periods.
What types of cargo handling services does LYS offer?
Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport handles a diverse range of cargo, primarily focused on general cargo and express freight. Services include dedicated cargo terminals, customs brokerage, trucking services, and warehousing facilities. The airport is particularly well-suited for handling shipments to and from Europe and North Africa. Specific capabilities include temperature-controlled storage and handling.
What transportation options are available to and from Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport?
LYS is well-connected to the Lyon metropolitan area and beyond. The ‘Rhone Express’ airport train provides frequent service to Lyon Part-Dieu station (approximately 30 minutes). Buses operated by Zou and NAVIGO also serve the airport. Taxi services are available, and car rental agencies are located in the terminal. The airport is also accessible by highway (A7) and has connections to the French rail network.
Does LYS have a dedicated freighter terminal and what is its significance?
Yes, LYS boasts a dedicated freighter terminal, known as ‘CargoXL.’ This terminal is specifically designed to accommodate larger cargo aircraft, including wide-body freighters. Its significance lies in providing efficient handling and logistical support for the airport’s growing freighter operations, enabling greater cargo throughput and direct connections to global destinations, particularly within the European market.
For More Info
Third-party resources, government portals, ratings, and more.
