The UN Ocean Conference 2025 will take place in Nice, France, from June 9-13, drawing government delegations, industry leaders, and NGOs worldwide. Given the high-profile nature of this event, business aviation operators must prepare for significant logistical challenges, including slot limitations, restricted parking availability, and heightened security measures. Additionally, this conference occurs during the heart of peak season in the Mediterranean, meaning airports across the region will already be congested and, in many cases, at full capacity. Below, we outline key operational insights for LFMN (Nice Côte d’Azur Airport) and alternate airport options to ensure seamless travel planning.

Primary Airport: Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (LFMN)

LFMD

LFMN is the preferred airport for business aviation flights to the conference due to its 24-hour operations, extensive service offerings, and proximity to the event. However, operators should expect severe congestion and limited parking availability.

Key Considerations:

• Airport Slots & PPR: LFMN requires both airport slots and prior permission (PPR) year-round. Due to the conference, these will be in exceptionally high demand, and last-minute changes may result in loss of allocated slots.
• A-CDM Compliance: Nice employs Airport Collaborative Decision Making (A-CDM), meaning flight plan and slot consistency is critical. Any mismatch can lead to automatic flight plan cancellations.
• Parking Limitations: Long-term parking is extremely restricted during major events. LFMN often denies requests until close to the date of operation, making repositioning a viable alternative.
• Customs & Immigration: CIQ clearance is available at the General Aviation Terminal (GAT) from 0800-2100 local time. Outside these hours, clearance is provided at the main terminal.
• Fueling: Fuel services operate from 0630-2130 local. Overnight fueling is possible with prior arrangement, but best practice is to refuel on arrival.
• Restricted Flight Activity (June 7-14, 2025):
  • VFR flights are prohibited.
  • No IFR flights permitted between Nice and Cannes.
  • Training flights are banned.
  • Mandatory use of ground handling services.
  • Helicopter movements require prior authorization, with restricted parking from June 10-14.

Alternate Airport: Cannes Mandelieu Airport (LFMD)

For operators unable to secure parking at LFMN, LFMD is a viable alternative, though it comes with notable restrictions:

• Limited Operating Hours: 0800 local time to 30 minutes after sunset. No overtime operations allowed.
• MTOW Restrictions: LFMD now accommodates aircraft up to 35,000 kg (77,175 lbs).
• Airport Slots & PPR: Required for all arrivals and departures. Schedule deviations exceeding 20 minutes require reapplication.
• Noise Abatement & Approach Requirements: Special crew briefing required prior to operating.

Repositioning Options

Due to the anticipated parking shortages, repositioning your aircraft may be necessary. Consider these alternatives:

• Marseille Provence Airport (LFML): 1.5-hour drive from Nice with 24-hour operations and ample parking.
• Toulon-Hyères Airport (LFTH): Approximately 90 minutes by car; less congested with good facilities.
• Milan Malpensa Airport (LIMC): For those willing to reposition further, LIMC offers a large capacity and strong business aviation support.

Security & Visa Considerations

• Heightened Security Measures: Expect increased scrutiny due to high-level government participation. Ensure crew and passengers carry proper identification and documentation.
• Visa Requirements: Non-EU nationals may require a Schengen visa. U.S. citizens can enter the Schengen area visa-free for short stays but should ensure passport validity extends six months beyond travel dates.

Final Recommendations

• Submit slot and parking requests as early as possible.
• Plan for repositioning if staying longer than a few hours.
• Avoid last-minute schedule changes, as LFMN has strict compliance requirements.
• Refuel on arrival to avoid potential fueling delays at departure.
• Work with a reliable trip support provider to navigate slot and permit challenges efficiently.

By preparing in advance, business aviation operators can mitigate logistical hurdles and ensure smooth operations for their passengers attending the UN Ocean Conference 2025.