Roland Garros Airport

Overview

Roland Garros Airport (IATA: RUN) is the main international gateway to Réunion Island, a French overseas department located in the Indian Ocean. Situated in the commune of Sainte-Marie, about 10 kilometres east of the capital Saint-Denis, the airport handles a mix of scheduled passenger flights, cargo operations, and seasonal charter services. Named after the pioneering French aviator Roland Garros, who was born on the island, the airport serves as a hub for regional connections to mainland France (Paris, Marseille, Lyon), nearby islands such as Mauritius and Madagascar, and other destinations in the Indian Ocean region.

The airport's single terminal handles both domestic and international flights. Given Réunion's status as an overseas department of France, flights to and from mainland France are considered domestic, but passengers should still carry appropriate identification. The airport is a key economic asset for the island, supporting tourism and trade.

Amenities

Roland Garros Airport offers a range of on-site services and facilities to cater to passengers' needs. The following amenities have been confirmed:

• Wheelchair Accessibility: The airport is equipped with a wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, and toilets, ensuring ease of movement for passengers with reduced mobility.
• Baggage Storage: Left luggage facilities are available for passengers who wish to store their bags while exploring the island or during layovers.
• Toilets and Changing Tables: Standard washroom facilities are available, including baby changing tables for families travelling with infants.
• Parking: The airport provides multiple parking options: a free parking lot, on-site parking spaces, a paid multi-storey car park, and an additional paid parking lot. This gives travellers flexibility depending on their budget and duration of stay.

No other amenities such as shops, restaurants, or lounges are confirmed in the available data, but passengers may find basic retail and dining options within the terminal. It is advisable to check the airport website for a full list of services before travelling.

Hours

The airport is not open all days; specific operating hours may vary. Peak hours are noted as 7 pm and 6 pm, suggesting a busy period in the late afternoon and early evening. Passengers should plan to arrive at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international flight, particularly during these times. Check with your airline for exact check-in deadlines.

Contact and Website

For further information, passengers can visit the official airport website: http://www.reunion.aeroport.fr/. The website provides flight schedules, parking details, and updates on airport services.

• Phone: +262 262 48 81 81
• Address: Roland Garros Airport, 97438 Sainte-Marie, Réunion

For lost property, special assistance, or other inquiries, the airport recommends contacting the information desk via phone or email listed on the website.

Getting There and Getting Around

Roland Garros Airport is located near the coast, about a 20-minute drive from Saint-Denis. The main access road is the RN2 (Route du Littoral), a scenic coastal highway. Taxis and rental cars are readily available at the terminal. Public bus services (the Citalis network) connect the airport to Saint-Denis and other towns. Some hotels offer shuttle services – check with your accommodation in advance.

Location and Context

Réunion Island is known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes, including the active Piton de la Fournaise. The airport is named after Roland Garros, a famous aviator and World War I fighter pilot who was born in Saint-Denis in 1888. The facility was originally known as Gillot Airport and was renamed in his honour. Today, it is the primary aviation hub for the island, handling over two million passengers annually (figure not based on current data, but general knowledge). The airport plays a vital role in connecting Réunion to the rest of the world, particularly mainland France and neighbouring Indian Ocean nations.