Biarritz Pays Basque airport (BIQ)

Common Complaints

• Security and Immigration Wait Times: Consistently cited as a major issue, with long queues at security and passport control, especially during peak season or when multiple flights depart simultaneously. Security checks can be slow and meticulous. International transfers requiring customs checks can take 60 minutes.
• Limited Amenities and Facilities: The airport has a small and somewhat outdated terminal with limited food and shopping options, particularly past security and for early morning flights. There is no duty-free store.
• Lack of Air Conditioning: During warm weather, the terminal can become very hot, sweaty, and stuffy due to a reported lack of functional air conditioning.
• Poor Connectivity: Travelers frequently report non-functional or unreliable Wi-Fi and a lack of free drinking water fountains and sufficient phone charging points.
• Inconsistent Staff Experience: While some find staff friendly, other reviews mention instances of rude, unhelpful, or inefficient staff at check-in, security, and immigration.
• Overcrowding and Seating: The small terminal can feel busy and crowded during peak summer months, with insufficient seating in departure areas, especially for non-Schengen flights.

In summary, Biarritz Pays Basque Airport offers a functional and generally clean experience for travelers, particularly benefiting from its small size and good ground transportation. However, travelers should be prepared for potential long waits at security and immigration, and manage expectations regarding limited terminal amenities and sometimes inconsistent staff service, especially during busy periods.