Paris, the romantic capital of France, is a major global hub for air travel. In 2023, the city’s airports—Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Orly (ORY), and Beauvais-Tillé (BVA)—collectively handled over 105 million passengers. This infographic breaks down the numbers and highlights the unique features of each airport, along with a nod to the historic Paris-Le Bourget Airport (LBG).
Passenger Traffic in 2023
A row chart in the infographic showcases the passenger totals for Paris's main airports:
- Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG): 67,421,316 passengers
- Orly Airport (ORY): 32,294,167 passengers
- Beauvais-Tillé Airport (BVA): 5,638,955 passengers
In 2023, CDG and ORY ranked as France’s busiest and second-busiest airports, while BVA placed tenth. On a global scale, CDG stood out as the 11th busiest airport by total passenger traffic.
Highlights of Paris Airports
Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)
- France’s Main Hub: CDG is the largest and busiest airport in France, offering extensive international and domestic connectivity.
- Global Recognition: Ranked 11th worldwide in passenger traffic in 2023, CDG remains a critical node in global aviation.
- Architectural Icon: Known for its futuristic design and engineering innovations, CDG features striking terminals like the iconic Terminal 1.
Orly Airport (ORY)
- Domestic and Short-Haul Specialist: ORY focuses on domestic flights and short-haul European routes, offering convenience for regional travel.
- Eco-Friendly Initiatives: The airport has invested in sustainability, incorporating renewable energy and eco-conscious operations.
- Historic Role: Before CDG's rise, ORY was Paris’s primary airport and remains a significant hub for air traffic.
Beauvais-Tillé Airport (BVA)
- Budget-Friendly Alternative: Located 85 km from Paris, BVA serves as a hub for low-cost carriers, offering affordable travel options.
- Gateway to Northern France: BVA provides convenient access to regions beyond Paris, including Normandy and Picardy.
- Efficient and Compact: Its smaller size ensures quick navigation and hassle-free boarding for travellers.
A Nod to Paris-Le Bourget Airport (LBG)
No discussion of Parisian airports would be complete without mentioning Le Bourget Airport (LBG), a cornerstone of aviation history:
- Historic Significance: The site of Charles Lindbergh’s famous transatlantic landing in 1927, LBG holds a special place in aviation lore.
- Private and Business Aviation Hub: Today, it serves as a key centre for private jets and business travel, catering to elite clientele.
- Home of the Paris Air Show: Le Bourget hosts the renowned Paris Air Show, the world’s oldest and largest event of its kind.
Discover More
Explore the infographic to learn more about Paris’ bustling airports and their role in global travel. Don’t forget to share it with fellow travellers and aviation enthusiasts!
Love airports? Check out the YHM Designs collection of airport code merchandise, celebrating the world’s most iconic travel hubs, including CDG, ORY, and more!
How to Cite
Data Source: Union des aéroports français & Francophones associés. Illustration by YHM Designs.