Brașov-Ghimbav International Airport

Overview

Brasov-Ghimbav International Airport is a modern gateway to central Romania, serving the historic city of Brasov and the broader Transylvania region. Opened in 2023, it is the first airport built from scratch in Romania in decades and was designed to handle both domestic and international flights. The airport primarily caters to leisure and business travellers heading to the Carpathian Mountains, the medieval Saxon towns of Brașov County, and the popular ski resort of Poiana Brașov. With a single terminal, the facility offers a streamlined experience focused on efficiency and accessibility.

Location & Access

The airport is situated in the town of Ghimbav, approximately 10 kilometres (6 miles) west of Brașov city centre. It lies along the DN1 national road, which connects Bucharest to Transylvania, and is also near the E68 European route. By car, the drive from Brașov’s historic Old Town takes about 15–20 minutes under normal traffic conditions. On-site paid parking is available for short and long stays, with dedicated spaces for disabled drivers.

For those without a private vehicle, taxis and ride-hailing services operate from the terminal. Travelers may also find shuttle buses connecting the airport to Brașov’s main transport hubs, though schedules are tied to flight arrivals. While public bus routes are limited, some services from Ghimbav to Brașov stop near the airport. Cycling and walking are not practical due to the road orientation. Given the airport’s recent opening, transport links are steadily improving, so passengers should plan accordingly based on their arrival time.

Facilities

Brasov-Ghimbav Airport is designed with passenger comfort and accessibility in mind. The terminal is fully wheelchair accessible: there is a wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, and toilets. These facilities ensure that passengers with reduced mobility can navigate the airport with ease. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the building, allowing travellers to stay connected while waiting for flights. The restrooms include baby changing tables, making the airport family-friendly. A paid parking lot is located directly in front of the terminal, with clear signage and payment machines.

Beyond these essentials, the airport offers standard on-site services such as check-in counters and waiting areas. While specific concessions like shops or restaurants are not listed, the airport's modern design allows for future expansion of retail and dining options. Passengers flying from Brasov-Ghimbav should be aware that the amenities currently focus on the core travel experience rather than extensive shopping or dining.

About the Region

Brașov is one of Romania’s most visited cities, set in the heart of Transylvania at the foot of the Carpathian Mountains. The region is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the iconic Black Church, Council Square, and the narrow Rope Street. Just a short drive from the airport lies Bran Castle, often associated with the Dracula legend, and the fortified citadel of Râșnov. The Carpathian Mountains offer year-round outdoor activities: hiking and mountain biking in summer, and skiing or snowboarding at Poiana Brașov in winter. The area also boasts numerous fortified Saxon churches, a UNESCO World Heritage site cluster.

The airport serves as a convenient alternative to Henri Coandă International Airport in Bucharest, cutting the travel time to Brașov’s attractions by hours. It connects central Romania to destinations across Europe, supporting both tourism and business travel. The region’s economy benefits from tourism, IT services, and manufacturing, with the airport poised to enhance accessibility for international visitors.

Practical Information

The airport is not open 24 hours a day; it operates according to flight schedules, with peak activity typically in the late afternoon and early evening (7–8 PM). Passengers should arrive at least two hours before departure for international flights and one hour for domestic flights. For the most current information, visit the official website at https://brasovairport.ro/ or call +40 368 447 722. The website provides flight timetables, parking rates, and contact details for airlines operating at the airport.

Travellers are advised to check their airline’s specific check-in times and baggage policies. Given the airport’s recent inauguration, some services may be phased in over time. The paid parking lot uses automated payment machines, so have local currency or a card ready. The airport is easily found by GPS using the address “Aleea Aeroportului, Ghimbav, Brașov County.”

Overall, Brasov-Ghimbav Airport offers a modern, accessible, and efficient starting point for exploring one of Romania’s most enchanting regions. Whether you’re headed to the slopes, the castles, or the cobblestone streets of Brașov, this airport provides a welcoming arrival in Transylvania.