How to Navigate Bordeaux Airport: Practical Guide

Floor Organization of Halls A and B

An essential distinction for navigating Bordeaux Airport: Halls A and B are arranged across two distinct levels.

• Ground Floor: This is where arrivals are handled, including baggage claim, customs, and border control. The layout is designed to ensure quick and efficient passenger flow, minimizing unnecessary movements and enabling smooth connections to other modes of transport (taxis, rental cars, etc.).
• Level 1 (Upper Floor): This level is dedicated to check-in, security checks, boarding lounges, and gates. If you're departing, it’s recommended to head upstairs as soon as you arrive at the airport to save time and avoid congestion at elevators or stairs during peak hours.

As for the billi terminal, it combines both departures and arrivals on a single level. This simplified layout makes navigation easy, particularly for low-cost airline passengers who don’t need to switch floors.

This vertical organization, unlike most regional airports, is worth understanding to optimize your journey—especially for connections or when traveling with young children or individuals with reduced mobility. For families or those needing accessibility assistance, this centralization makes airport navigation much easier.

Hall A

Hall A is the main hub for most domestic and international destinations. Airlines like British Airways, KLM, Lufthansa, Iberia, and TAP Portugal operate here. The hall’s regular upgrades ensure a bright and pleasant space with plenty of seating areas to relax before boarding.

Hall A also offers easy access to Hall B via the connecting building. Connecting passengers can move between halls without re-entering public areas or stepping outside, making quick transfers more convenient. Multilingual information screens and interactive kiosks help travelers find their way, even on multi-airline itineraries. For assistance, look for staff in uniforms who are always ready to help.

Hall B

Once known mainly for Air France’s “Navette” shuttle flights, Hall B now handles most Air France flights to Paris-Orly, Charles de Gaulle, and other hubs. Its convenient connection to Hall A via the centralized SSC ensures smooth passenger flow during busy departure windows in the morning and evening.

Hall B is also a key departure point for many business travelers. It features modern check-in counters, revamped waiting areas, and real-time flight information. Connecting passengers benefit from the close proximity of security checks and direct access to boarding gates. Pro tip: Air France lounges are nearby, offering a great spot to relax after security if you’re traveling in business class or have loyalty status.

billi Terminal

Separate from Halls A and B, the billi terminal (stylized in lowercase) is dedicated to budget-conscious travelers flying with low-cost airlines like easyJet, Ryanair, and Volotea. This terminal operates almost like a standalone airport: it has its own check-in counters, security checkpoint, and exclusive boarding area, reducing the risk of confusion with the other halls.

Located away from the main building, the walk to billi is pedestrian-friendly and clearly marked but can take 7–12 minutes with luggage. Ideally, arrange to be dropped off directly at the billi entrance to avoid unnecessary walking from the main parking lots. Make sure to check your ticket or reservation confirmation in advance to confirm which terminal you need—most misdirections involve low-cost travelers mistakenly heading to Halls A or B.

Parking and Drop-Off Zones

Bordeaux Airport provides a range of parking and drop-off options:

• P Express: Ideal for very short stops, allowing you to drop off passengers right at the main terminal entrance (Halls A/B) with 10 minutes of free parking. Perfect for accompanying kids, elderly passengers, or those in a rush. Digital signs display the time used and direct you to the exit.
• Drop-Off Zone: Designed for even shorter stops (5 minutes free), drivers must remain in the vehicle—leaving the car unattended is prohibited and monitored via CCTV. This zone keeps traffic flowing smoothly, particularly during peak times.
• P0, P1, P2: These nearby parking lots, just a few minutes’ walk from the terminals, are great for short or medium-length stays. They offer secure access and allow you to accompany travelers to check-in without worrying about time limits.
• P4: The long-term parking option, located farther away. It’s served 24/7 by a free shuttle running every 10–15 minutes. Plan for an additional 15–25 minutes to reach your hall from P4, especially during busy summer travel periods.

For peace of mind, consider reserving your parking spot in advance on the airport’s website, especially during school vacations or long weekends, to secure the best rates and guarantee availability.

VIP Lounges

If you're looking for peace, comfort, and premium services, Bordeaux Airport has a couple of lounge options away from the terminal's hustle and bustle.

Hall A Lounge: Located in Hall A's boarding area, this is an independent, pay-to-enter lounge accessible to all passengers for a fee (€38).

Air France Lounge: Located in Hall B, this lounge is accessible after security for business class passengers or those with Flying Blue Elite Plus status.

Inside these lounges, you’ll typically find fast Wi-Fi, international press, snacks, and a selection of hot and cold beverages. They may also offer workspaces, rest areas, and showers—perfect for working remotely or relaxing before your flight. Check access conditions with your airline, loyalty program, or the airport's website.

Dining and Shopping

No trip through an airport is complete without a snack or some shopping. Bordeaux Airport offers various options in every area.

• Public Zones: Before security, enjoy cafes, bakeries, restaurants, and snack bars where you can grab a coffee, share a last meal with family, or pick up sandwiches to go. Regional specialties (like canelés and chocolates) are also available to enjoy a taste of Bordeaux before departure.
• Restricted Zones: After security, explore duty-free shops offering Bordeaux wines, spirits, local products, perfumes, and travel accessories. Pick up last-minute gifts or enjoy a wine-tasting experience to savor the Bordeaux region one last time.

Use the airport's interactive map to locate stores and compare options ahead of time.

1. Confirm Your Terminal

First step: check your flight confirmation to identify your terminal. Low-cost airlines exclusively use the billi terminal, while traditional domestic and international airlines operate from Halls A or B. To avoid confusion, have your driver drop you off directly at billi if it’s your terminal—this saves valuable time and spares you from lugging bags between buildings.

If unsure, follow the new signage: illuminated panels, floor markings, and multilingual information kiosks are available at every stage of your journey. Interactive maps are also located at each terminal entrance.

2. Tram or Car?

The Bordeaux tramway (Line A) runs every 10–20 minutes from the city center (Saint-Jean or Quinconces stops) to the airport, taking about 40–50 minutes depending on traffic. This eco-friendly and budget-friendly option is ideal for solo travelers or those without bulky luggage. However, for early morning departures, large bags, or family trips, a taxi or private car is often more convenient—offering door-to-door service and time savings.

Pro tip: Book a taxi or shuttle in advance for personalized service, especially for travelers with mobility challenges or young children.

3. Allow Time for Security

While the centralized SSC has reduced screening times, queues can still form during peak hours, such as early mornings or school holidays. Plan to arrive at the airport:

• At least 2 hours before an international flight
• 1.5–2 hours for domestic or intra-European flights

If flying from billi, remember that the terminal’s compact size doesn’t prevent lines from building up—arrive early and have your boarding pass and ID ready to speed up the process.

For Fast Track access, locate it as soon as you arrive. Keeping liquids and electronics easily accessible will also help you move quickly through security.

4. Liquid Rules

As of January 2026, European regulations still limit liquids in carry-on bags to 100 ml per container, despite the gradual rollout of 3D scanners. This means perfumes, toiletries, drinks, and some foods must be packed in a transparent plastic bag of up to one liter. Prepare this bag at home to avoid confiscation at security and save time.

A handy tip: travel with an empty water bottle. After security, refill it at filtered water stations available in all boarding areas. It’s practical, eco-friendly, and cost-effective—especially for families or long-haul flights.