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Réunion Island, a French department in the Indian Ocean, is known for its volcanic landscape, rainforests, coral reefs, and beaches. The island is home to several airports, including Réunion-Roland Garros Airport (RUN), Pierrefonds Airport, and Saint-Denis-Gillot Airport. When planning a trip to Réunion, it is important to consider factors such as price, convenience, and the airports served. Popular airlines flying to Réunion include Air Austral, Corsair, Air France, French Bee, and Air Mauritius. Additionally, those travelling from the United States can find cheap flights to Saint-Denis, Réunion, with prices starting at USD 2,218 for return trips.
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What You'll Learn
Roland Garros Airport: the main airport on Reunion Island
Réunion-Roland Garros Airport (IATA code: RUN, ICAO: FMEE), formerly known as Gillot Airport, is the main airport on the island of Réunion, a French department in the Indian Ocean. The airport is located in Sainte-Marie, about 7 kilometres (3.8 NM) east of Saint-Denis, the capital city, which can be reached in approximately 15 minutes by car. Its strategic location in the north of the island allows easy access to popular tourist destinations such as Saint-Gilles-les-Bains, which is a 45-minute drive (40 km) away, and Saint-Pierre, located in the south of the island, approximately one hour and 15 minutes away (85 km). The picturesque Cilaos, nestled in the mountainous region of the island, is about a two-hour drive (64 km) from the airport.
The airport is named after the famous French aviator Roland Garros, a native of the island who was born in Saint-Denis. Roland Garros Airport serves as a hub for Air Austral, with its head office located on the airport grounds. The airline offers direct flights to Réunion from 10 cities, making it a popular choice for travellers. Other airlines serving the airport include Corsair, Air France, French Bee, and Air Mauritius.
Roland Garros Airport is a relatively small international airport with limited shopping options. However, passengers have praised the airport staff for their helpfulness. The airport has two asphalt-paved runways: 12/30, which measures 3,200 by 45 metres (10,499 ft x 148 ft), and 14/32, with dimensions of 2,670 by 45 metres (8,760 ft x 148 ft). It is notable for operating the world's three longest domestic flight routes to Paris (CDG and Orly) and Marseille.
Public transport is available from the airport to Saint-Denis and other destinations through the Car Jaune bus network. The bus stop is conveniently located in front of the arrivals terminal, offering modern, air-conditioned buses at a low cost of around EUR 2 per ride. The journey to Saint-Denis takes approximately 30 minutes, although travel times can vary depending on traffic conditions. Additionally, many accommodations in the area provide a private shuttle service that can be arranged in advance when booking.
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Pierrefonds Airport: a smaller airport in the south of Reunion Island
Réunion Island, a French department in the Indian Ocean, is known for its volcanic landscapes, rainforests, coral reefs, and beaches. The island boasts a rich marine biodiversity, making it an incredible destination for diving enthusiasts. Reunion's most iconic landmark is the Piton de la Fournaise, an active volcano that stands at 2,632 meters (8,635 feet). The island's capital, Saint-Denis, is located in the north of the island, in the municipality of Sainte-Marie.
When it comes to air travel, Reunion Island is served by several airports, each playing a role in connecting the island to the world. One of these airports is Pierrefonds Airport, located in the southern part of Reunion Island, near the city of Saint-Pierre. Pierrefonds Airport serves as a domestic and regional airport, providing an alternative to the larger Roland Garros Airport in the north. It primarily caters to travellers from the southern part of the island, offering them a more convenient option than the longer journey to Roland Garros Airport.
Pierrefonds Airport has undergone significant improvements over the years, including expansions of its terminal and runway. These enhancements have enabled the airport to accommodate a greater number of passengers and a wider range of aircraft. The runway can now handle narrow-body aircraft commonly used on domestic and regional routes, such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320. However, it cannot facilitate larger wide-body aircraft typically utilised for long-haul international flights.
Despite being a smaller airport, Pierrefonds holds its significance as an important regional hub, especially for those travelling to or from the southern region of Reunion Island. The airport serves both domestic flights within Reunion and regional routes to nearby destinations such as Mauritius, Madagascar, and Seychelles. Additionally, it offers essential ground transportation options like taxis and car rentals, ensuring smooth connectivity to Saint-Pierre and beyond.
In summary, Pierrefonds Airport, situated in the south of Reunion Island, plays a crucial role in the island's aviation network. Its recent developments have elevated its status as a prominent secondary hub for air travel within the Indian Ocean region. For travellers seeking convenient access to the southern part of Reunion Island, Pierrefonds Airport stands as a preferred gateway.
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Saint-Denis-Gillot Airport: a non-commercial airport near the capital
Saint-Denis-Gillot Airport is a non-commercial airport located near the capital city of Saint-Denis on Réunion Island. It is primarily used for general aviation, cargo operations, and humanitarian flights, serving as an important part of the local aviation infrastructure. With origins dating back to the 1930s, it is one of the oldest aviation facilities on the island.
Unlike the larger commercial airport, Roland Garros Airport, Saint-Denis-Gillot Airport does not accommodate regular passenger flights. Instead, it serves private and charter flights, providing convenient access to the capital city and the surrounding regions. This airport plays a crucial role in facilitating cargo and humanitarian operations on the island.
Roland Garros Airport, also known as Réunion-Roland Garros Airport (IATA code: RUN), is the main international airport on Réunion Island. It is located in Sainte-Marie, just 6 miles (or 7 kilometres) northeast of Saint-Denis. The airport is named after the famous French aviator Roland Garros, a native of the island, and it first opened in 1975.
Roland Garros Airport serves as a vital hub for regional and international travel, connecting Réunion with Africa, Europe, Asia, and neighbouring Indian Ocean islands. It has undergone significant expansions and upgrades over the years to accommodate growing passenger traffic, including expanded check-in areas, improved baggage handling systems, and increased seating capacity in waiting areas. The airport also offers various services, including airline agencies, ticket machines, free Wi-Fi, loading kiosks, charging stations, ATMs, duty-free shops, catering outlets, and bars.
In addition to Roland Garros Airport and Saint-Denis-Gillot Airport, Pierrefonds Airport is another important aviation hub on Réunion Island. Located in the southern part of the island near the city of Saint-Pierre, Pierrefonds Airport serves as a domestic and regional airport, providing an alternative to the longer journey to Roland Garros Airport for travellers from the south. It has also undergone improvements to handle more passengers and a wider range of aircraft.
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Getting to your hotel: transport options from the airport
If you're travelling to Reunion, Florida, the closest airport is Orlando International Airport, which is 28 miles away. Alternatively, you could fly into Orlando Sanford International Airport, which is 54 miles away.
If you're travelling to the island of Réunion, there are several airport options. The main airport is Réunion-Roland Garros Airport (RUN), located in Sainte-Marie, 7km from the capital, Saint-Denis. This airport is named after the famous French aviator Roland Garros, a native of the island. It serves as a crucial hub for both regional and international travel, with flights connecting Réunion to Africa, Europe, and Asia, as well as neighbouring Indian Ocean islands. The airport offers various services, including free wifi, ticket machines, shops, catering outlets, and bars. From the airport, you can easily reach your hotel by bus, taxi, VTC, or rental car. The Car Jaune bus network provides connections to Saint-Denis and other locations, with inexpensive fares (around EUR 2 per ride) and modern, air-conditioned buses. The journey to Saint-Denis takes approximately 30 minutes. Many accommodations also offer private shuttle services, which must be organised in advance.
Another option for reaching Réunion is Pierrefonds Airport, located in the southern part of the island near the city of Saint-Pierre. This airport primarily serves as a domestic and regional hub, offering flights within Réunion and to other Indian Ocean destinations such as Mauritius, Madagascar, and Seychelles. It is a good choice for travellers seeking easier access to the southern part of the island, known for its volcanic landscapes and scenic beauty. Pierrefonds Airport is equipped with ground transportation options such as taxis and car rentals, making it convenient for passengers travelling to Saint-Pierre and beyond.
Finally, there is Saint-Denis-Gillot Airport, located near the capital city of Saint-Denis. This airport is primarily used for general aviation and cargo operations, rather than commercial passenger flights. It serves private and charter flights, as well as cargo and humanitarian flights, offering convenient access to the capital and surrounding regions.
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Cheap flights: how to find the best deals
If you're looking for cheap flights for your next reunion, there are several options to consider. The best option for you will depend on your location, budget, and flexibility. Here are some tips to help you find the best deals on airfare for your reunion:
Search Engines and Travel Websites:
Start by using online search engines and travel websites that allow you to compare prices across different airlines. Websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Momondo can be great tools to find cheap flights. These platforms often allow you to track prices and set up alerts, so you can stay informed about price fluctuations and grab tickets at the lowest price.
Flexibility:
Flexibility can be a key factor in finding cheap flights. If you have some wiggle room with your travel dates, you can often find better deals. Flying on weekdays, especially Tuesdays and Wednesdays, tends to be cheaper than flying on weekends. Additionally, consider travelling during off-peak seasons, as airfare prices are usually higher during popular vacation times, such as summer or holidays.
Consider Different Airports:
Depending on your destination, consider flying into alternative airports that may offer cheaper flights. For example, if your reunion is in Reunion, Florida, you could look at flights into Orlando International Airport (MCO) or Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB), which are relatively close by. Similarly, if your reunion is in Réunion Island, you could consider flying into either Roland Garros Airport (RUN) or Pierrefonds Airport, depending on whether your destination is in the north or south of the island.
Loyalty Programs and Newsletters:
Signing up for airline newsletters and joining their loyalty programs can give you access to exclusive deals and discounts. Airlines often send promotional emails with special offers, and being a member of their loyalty program can unlock additional benefits, such as early access to sales or discounted fares.
Direct vs. Connecting Flights:
Sometimes, taking a connecting flight with a layover can be cheaper than a direct flight. While this option may add travel time, it could save you a significant amount of money. However, carefully consider the length of the layover and the potential risks of delays or missed connections.
Book in Advance:
Airlines typically offer the lowest fares on international flights about two months in advance. For domestic flights, the best deals can often be found about one month to three weeks before departure. Keep an eye on prices and try to book within these time frames to increase your chances of getting a good deal.
By following these tips and staying vigilant, you'll be well on your way to finding cheap flights for your reunion. Happy travelling!
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Frequently asked questions
The closest airport to Reunion, Florida, is Orlando International Airport (MCO/KMCO), which is 28 miles away.
Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB/KSFB) is 54 miles away, Tampa International Airport (TPA/KTPA) is 71 miles away, and Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB/KDAB) is 79 miles away.
Roland Garros Airport (RUN) is the main airport on Reunion Island. It is located in Sainte-Marie, 6-7km from the island's capital, Saint-Denis.
Pierrefonds Airport is located in the southern part of Reunion Island, near the city of Saint-Pierre. It primarily serves as a domestic and regional airport. Saint-Denis-Gillot Airport is located near the capital city of Saint-Denis and is used for general aviation and cargo operations. It is not a commercial passenger airport.
Reunion Island, a French department in the Indian Ocean, is known for its volcanic landscapes, rainforests, coral reefs, and beaches. The island's capital, Saint-Denis, offers a variety of local cuisine, including cari (Indian curry), sausage rougail, and rabbit stew. The island is also known for its music and dance, including the séga, a festive ballroom dance with colourful costumes. Nature lovers can explore the island's rare insect and bird species, as well as its rich marine biodiversity, making it ideal for diving.
