The Paris Air Show returns to Le Bourget (LFPB) from June 16–22, 2025, and with it comes significant disruption for business aviation operators planning to access Paris. As one of the world’s premier aerospace events, the show brings a surge in air traffic, aerial demonstrations, and special-use airspace restrictions that will directly impact GA activity throughout the Paris region.

Paris Air Show Event Timeline

LFPB Runway Closures and Airspace Restrictions

• No arrivals or departures permitted during aerial displays:
  • June 11–19: 1130–1430 UTC
  • June 20–22: 1030–1530 UTC
  • Additional slot restrictions may apply 30 minutes before and after display periods
• LFPB may not be used as an alternate during closure windows

Flight Plan Filing Requirements During Restricted Airspace Activation

During the Red and Blue restricted area activation:

• June 11–13: 0730Z–1530Z
• June 16–22: 0530Z–1730Z

Accreditation Requirements

• Accreditation is required for all crew and aircraft operating to/from LFPB between June 11–22
• Applications must be submitted at least 7 days prior to operation
• Accreditation must include airworthiness documents and validated crew credentials
• Accreditation numbers must be entered in Box 18 of the flight plan

Apply here: https://siaepro.mybadgeonline.com/Aeronef-en-US

VFR Flight Restrictions

• VFR flights into restricted temporary zones (ZIT/ZRT) must:
  • File flight intentions in advance
  • Receive assigned 3/A transponder codes
• Restrictions apply to aircraft:
  • With MTOW ≤ 20 tons
  • Operating at speeds ≤ 200 KT IAS

Helicopter Operations

• Temporary helipad at LFPB available June 11–22
  • June 11–15: Operating 0800–1330 LT
  • June 16–22: Operating 0500–1700 LT
• All helicopter movements must be coordinated with an FBO

Parking Limitations

• Overnight parking is limited and not guaranteed
• Aircraft with wingspans over 52 meters are not accepted unless officially part of the show

Fueling Recommendations at LFPB

Operators are strongly advised to refuel prior to arrival at LFPB. If refueling at LFPB is unavoidable, you must:

• Have two fuel releases from different providers or
• Possess two separate fueler cards

Alternate Airport Options

If LFPB access is not feasible, Universal Aviation France recommends Albert Picardie (LFAQ) as its top alternate. LFAQ is not recommended as an alternate by Paris officials because it is not part of the Aéroport de Paris network. However, LFAQ is unrestricted furing the Paris Air Show and was a popular and widely used alternative during the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics. Drive time to Central Paris is about two hours.

Services

• The airport was constructed for Airbus to accommodate the Beluga.
• The tower operates 24/7.
• No PPR during the Paris Air Show.
• No slots required.
• 24 hours on-site customs office available for the Paris Air Show to clear in the Fixed-Base Operator (FBO). With PPR
• All staff members speak English.
• Flexibility for late arrivals or departures
• Ramp space available for up to 6 General Aviation (GA) aircraft.
• Towbarless tug capable of moving all our aircraft is provided.
• No hangar facilities available.
• Airport fuel tanks hold 15,000 gallons with one fuel truck from Air BP.
• AC/DC power cart is accessible.
• Aircart arrangements can be made.
• No potable water supply.

Other alternates to consider, include:

• Albert – Picardie (LFAQ):
  • Unrestricted
  • Not part of the Aéroport de Paris network
• Pontoise (LFPT):
  • CIQ services available June 11–22
  • 17-ton MTOW limit suspended
  • RWY 12/30 used for static ramp overflow
• Charles de Gaulle (LFPG) and Orly (LFPO):
  • GA accepted with slots
  • Maximum 5-hour ground time
• Châlons Vatry (LFOK) and Deauville – Normandie (LFRG):
  • Viable additional alternates

Check Feasibility-IQ for more information on these and any other airports you may be interested in researching or visiting.

Ground Access and Customs

• Expect significant road congestion near LFPB
• Private vehicle access requires pre-registration
• Rideshare services like Uber will not be granted airport access
• Use prearranged transport through your ground handler
• Declare upon entry:
  • More than €10,000 in cash per family
  • Goods exceeding €430 in value

SAFA checks

Random Safety Assessment of Foreign Aircraft (SAFA) checks are routinely conducted at LFPB and across the EU. Ensure your crew is prepared with complete, up-to-date documentation to avoid fines or operational delays.

Hotels and local transport

• Expect significant hotel sell-outs near Paris and surrounding areas during the Air Show. Book crew accommodations as early as possible.

• Vehicles, excluding public taxis, will require a special airport access sticker to enter LFPB’s public side. Rideshare services like Uber will not be granted access.

• Prearranged chauffeur services through your handler are strongly recommended.

Additional arrival considerations

• Expect enhanced security checks and military police presence throughout the airfield.

• Private vehicles must be pre-registered with the airport to receive access credentials.

  • Be aware of customs requirements: If carrying more than €10,000 in currency per family, or in the aircraft safe or goods over €430 in value, you must declare these upon arrival or departure using a “Declaration of Valuables” form.

Final Considerations

Operations into LFPB during the Paris Air Show require careful advance planning. Parking and slot availability will be limited, access procedures more complex, and accreditation mandatory. Universal Aviation France is available to assist with every step of the process—from flight planning and permits to ground support and helicopter ops. Contact your Universal Trip Support team to begin preparations today.