Montpellier Airport
Montpellier-Méditerranée Airport, located in southern France between Marseille and Toulouse, and about 130 kilometres from the Spanish border, handled just over one million passengers during the January – August period, representing an increase of 4.4% year-on-year.
The airport is gradually recovering its passenger traffic following a dip caused by the pandemic and frequent air traffic control strikes in France, which made an impact on last year’s figures. A key factor driving this recovery is the strategic presence of Transavia France, which has stationed an aircraft at the airport for the entire summer season, boosting connectivity and attracting more travellers.
Additionally, the airport is expanding its network with the introduction of six new routes by four airlines this year, offering more direct connections to popular destinations across Europe and North Africa.
These efforts are helping Montpellier maintain its position as an important regional airport, with an upward trend in passenger numbers expected as tourism and business travel pick up momentum.
Montpellier Airport welcomes six new routes in 2024
Montpellier-Méditerranée Airport hosted a diverse range of 14 airlines during the 2024 peak summer season, offering a well-balanced mix of both legacy and low-cost carriers.
Montpellier expanded its offering this year with Transavia France commencing operations to Istanbul IST, becoming the airport’s furthermost destination. In addition, the carrier added a new service to Rabat in Morocco, further strengthening the airport’s network in North Africa.
easyJet launched operations to Palma de Mallorca, while another LCC, Norwegian, inaugurated services to Oslo, restoring connectivity between the two cities after two years following the collapse of Flyr.
Volotea introduced its first international service out of Montpellier, with flights to Menorca. Up until this summer, it exclusively served domestic destinations from the French airport. Volotea will further expand its presence in Montpellier with the introduction of a seasonal winter service to Rennes in November.
The network growth has been complemented by an increase in frequencies on a select number of routes, including Frankfurt with Discover Airlines and London LGW with British Airways EuroFlyer, as well as an extended flying season to the likes of Athens, Heraklion, and Oran.
Strong focus on VFR traffic
Montpellier Airport is strategically positioned to cater for VFR (Visiting Friends and Relatives) traffic and has further strengthened its connectivity for this key group of travellers this year. The airport offers flights to seven cities in Morocco, two in Algeria and one in Tunisia.
The focus on VFR aligns with the increasing demand in this segment, particularly within the Moroccan community residing in and around Montpellier. In 2023, 50% of all passengers travelled for VFR purposes from Montpellier, followed by 29% for leisure and 17% for business.
An analysis of Cirium schedules data reveals that the domestic French market remains Montpellier’s largest, with services provided by Air France, Transavia France, and Volotea. It is followed by the Moroccan market, catered by Air Arabia Maroc, Royal Air Maroc, and Transavia France. The United Kingdom ranks third out of Montpellier with British Airways and easyJet serving the French city from two of London’s airports.
Looking ahead, Montpellier-Méditerranée Airport envisions consolidating its domestic French network and enhancing frequencies to regional destinations. Southbound, there is a commitment to filling gaps in Portugal, Spain, Italy, and Morocco. Northbound expansion is earmarked for Nordic countries, Germany, and Central Europe.
With an eye on growth and a pledge to expand its network, Montpellier remains an important player in France’s ever-evolving aviation sector.
Tourism Board Info
Montpellier, one of the fastest-growing cities in France, is a prime destination for airline route developers looking to capture the expanding market of leisure and business travelers in southern France. Nestled between the Mediterranean coast and the Cévennes mountains, Montpellier offers a unique blend of historic charm, cultural vibrancy, and natural beauty, making it an attractive destination for a diverse range of tourists.
Known for its medieval architecture, Montpellier boasts iconic landmarks such as the Place de la Comédie, the 14th-century Saint-Pierre Cathedral, and the Arc de Triomphe. The historic center, with its narrow, winding streets, is home to numerous museums, art galleries, and cafes that appeal to cultural tourists. The Fabre Museum, one of France’s most prominent art museums, further enhances the city’s appeal to art and history enthusiasts.
Montpellier’s proximity to the Mediterranean coast is a major draw, attracting beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts. The city is only a short drive from beautiful beaches like Palavas-les-Flots and La Grande-Motte, which are popular with tourists seeking sun and relaxation. Additionally, Montpellier is known for its wine tourism, with vineyards and wine estates in the Languedoc region offering tastings and tours that attract wine lovers from around the world.
Montpellier also serves as a gateway to regional attractions, such as the UNESCO-listed Pont du Gard, the medieval town of Carcassonne, and the Camargue National Park, known for its wild horses and flamingos. This variety makes Montpellier an ideal hub for tourists looking to explore the broader Occitanie region.
For airline route developers, Montpellier offers untapped potential to attract tourists from European and international markets. The city’s appeal spans cultural tourism, beach tourism, and gastronomy, making it a well-rounded destination that can support seasonal and year-round routes. With a young, dynamic population and strong tourism infrastructure, Montpellier Méditerranée Airport is well-positioned to support new routes and increased capacity.
