Cuneo Airport
Cuneo Airport, located in the heart of the Piedmont region of northern Italy, is in one of the country’s most economically dynamic areas. Positioned just over an hour from Turin and within easy reach of the French border, Cuneo Airport offers convenient access to the Alps, the Langhe wine region and several major ski resorts.
Cuneo’s catchment area includes over 1.5 million residents and a strong base of both leisure and corporate traffic, as well as outbound VFR travel. Based on recent analysis, 27% of travellers are corporate, 43% leisure and 30% VFR.
In 2024, Cuneo Airport handled 105,428 passengers. The airport currently hosts a modest but stable schedule, including connections to Sicily and Sardinia (operated by Ryanair) and Casablanca (served by Air Arabia).
Cuneo Airport is focusing on expanding year-round connectivity to underserved markets in Central and Eastern Europe, as well as increasing inbound tourism potential from key European source markets. The airport is targeting new routes to the likes of France, Romania, Poland, Germany and Scandinavia.
There is a growing appetite for low-cost and regional carriers to connect with both winter sports tourism and culinary tourism in the Piedmont region.
Cuneo Airport is also placing renewed focus on cargo traffic as part of its long-term development strategy. The airport is capitalising on its available airfield capacity and its barycentric location in Southern Europe, enabling regional cargo operations to complement its expanding passenger network and offering airlines additional revenue potential through belly freight or dedicated services.
In addition, Cuneo Airport is expanding its operations to better serve both businesses and travelers, integrating scheduled flights with the rapidly growing sectors of private and business aviation. The private jet company Small Fly has selected Cuneo as the location for its new base, contributing to a 52% increase in executive aviation revenues in 2024 compared to the previous year.
As part of its diversification efforts and commitment to enhancing existing infrastructure, SkyAlps opened a maintenance base at Cuneo Airport on 8 November 2024. The facility currently employs 20 staff members, with plans to grow to 50 by the end of 2025—substantially boosting the airport’s on-site workforce.
Further strengthening this momentum, the Swiss-based Aelo Swiss Academy has launched a new branch at the airport, reinforcing Cuneo’s position as a growing hub in the aviation sector.
With these new initiatives, Cuneo Airport continues to broaden its range of services and solidify its strategic importance in the region with streamlined infrastructure, low operating costs, and no slot constraints, Cuneo Airport provides a low-risk entry point for carriers looking to grow in Northern Italy without the congestion of larger hubs.
Tourism Board Info
Unlocking Cuneo: A Hidden Gem for Airline Route Expansion
Nestled in the heart of Italy’s Piedmont region, Cuneo offers a compelling case for airlines seeking to diversify their European networks. With its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and proximity to both the French border and the Italian Alps, Cuneo is poised to become a sought-after destination for discerning travelers.
Strategic Location and Accessibility
Cuneo enjoys a prime location as a gateway to the Alps, offering easy access to popular ski resorts such as Mondolè Ski, Limone Piemonte, and other destinations in the surrounding alpine region.
Its proximity to Turin—just over an hour’s drive—further enhances its connectivity and attractiveness for both domestic and international travelers. Additionally, the city is within reach of the French Riviera, making it a year-round destination for winter sports enthusiasts and summer tourists alike. Cuneo International Airport serves as a convenient entry point, currently operating seasonal flights and presenting strong potential for expanded services.
Cultural and Culinary Attractions
Cuneo boasts a rich tapestry of cultural events and festivals throughout the year. The Notti Rosa Festival in July transforms the city into a vibrant celebration of art, music, and cuisine. In October, the Fiera Nazionale del Marrone (National Chestnut Fair), Vinium Alba, an international fair celebrating the wines of Piedmont and the Alba Truffel Fair attracts visitors with its culinary delights and local produce. Additionally, the literary festival Scrittorincittà in November draws book enthusiasts from across Italy.
Gastronomy is at the heart of Cuneo’s appeal. The region is renowned for its truffles, Barolo and Barbaresco wines, and traditional dishes like Agnolotti and Brasato al Barolo. Visitors can indulge in these delicacies at local trattorias and wineries, offering a taste of Piedmontese heritage.
Natural Beauty and Outdoor Activities
Surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the Maritime Alps, Cuneo is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The Gesso and Stura River Park offers extensive opportunities for hiking and cycling, complemented by scenic routes like the historic Via del Sale and a network of trails that wind through the picturesque Langhe hills. In winter, nearby ski resorts provide over 130 km of slopes for skiing and snowboarding. Cuneo’s dedication to green living, reflected in its abundant public parks and tree-lined boulevards, has earned it the title of “Green Capital of Piedmont.”
All of this demonstrates how Cuneo International Airport serves not only the city itself but the entire province—a vast and diverse area rich in internationally renowned attractions, particularly in the Langhe-Roero-Monferrato region, known for its rolling vineyards, culinary excellence, and cultural heritage.
Conclusion
For airlines considering new routes, Cuneo presents a unique blend of cultural richness, culinary excellence, and natural beauty. Its strategic location, coupled with a growing tourism infrastructure, makes it an attractive destination for travelers seeking authentic Italian experiences. Expanding air services to Cuneo could tap into a niche market eager to explore this hidden gem in the Alps.
