Le Puy-Loudes Airfield (LPY)

Le Puy-Loudes Airfield (IATA: LPY, ICAO: LFHP) is a small regional airport located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of south-central France. It primarily serves the city of Le Puy-en-Velay and the surrounding Haute-Loire department. While it once provided a key commercial link for the area, its current role is centered on general aviation, flight training, and private charter services. Its high-altitude position on the Velay plateau offers scenic approaches for pilots and distinguishes it from many other regional airfields in the country.

Originally established in the 1930s, the airfield has a history intertwined with the economic and tourism needs of the region. A significant development was the construction of a modern terminal building in the early 1980s, which enabled it to support regular commercial flights. For decades, it maintained a crucial route to Paris-Orly, operated by various regional airlines over the years. This service was a vital connection for local businesses and visitors embarking on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, which begins in Le Puy. However, the suspension of this scheduled commercial route in recent years has shifted the airport's focus almost entirely to non-commercial aviation.

The airfield is conveniently situated in the commune of Chaspuzac, approximately 13 kilometers (8 miles) west of the Le Puy-en-Velay city center. The journey by car typically takes 15 to 20 minutes via the N102 and local roads. Access is almost exclusively by private vehicle or pre-booked taxi, as there is no dedicated public bus or shuttle service connecting the airport to the city. Travelers should arrange their ground transportation well in advance of their arrival or departure.

As of recent information, Le Puy-Loudes does not handle any scheduled domestic or international passenger flights. Operations are limited to general aviation aircraft, business jets, medical transport, and the activities of the on-site Aéroclub du Puy-en-Velay. The infrastructure reflects this scale, with a single, modest terminal building. Facilities for travelers are basic, consisting of a small waiting area and restrooms. There are no restaurants, cafes, or retail shops within the terminal. Car rental services may be available by prior arrangement, but it is essential to confirm their operational status directly.

For those using the airport for private flights, it is advisable to confirm all services, including operational hours and fuel availability, in advance. Tourists hoping to fly to the region should plan to use larger airports such as Lyon-Saint Exupéry (LYS) or Clermont-Ferrand Auvergne (CFE) and complete their journey by road. Due to the airport’s limited services and lack of scheduled traffic, all onward travel arrangements must be secured independently before arriving.