Lyon Bron, the dedicated business airport of France’s “second city,” is here exhibiting for the first time in a bid to attract more traffic from China and other countries in Asia.
Chinese President Xi Jinping visited Lyon last year and Lyon Bron general manager Didier Pianelli believes there is real potential for more business between the city and China. He emphasized the platform has suitable facilities, in terms of runway and apron, for those long-range business jets that can fly directly from Shanghai or Beijing.
Other airports dedicated to general aviation in France have limitations in the weight of the aircraft they can accommodate. This is the case with Cannes, on the French Riviera. Closer to the Alps, Chambéry can meet the needs of high-end business aviation, but VIP passengers may have to cope with arrival or departure slots.
“We have neither ATC slots nor an apron booking scheme,” Pianelli pointed out. Lyon Bron is open to traffic on a 24-hour, 365-day basis. It operates its own FBO and has recently invested in luggage handling equipment and tugs. The runway has been grooved, which is not commonplace in the country. Pianelli sees this feature as important for many foreign pilots used to this feature that combats dangerous aquaplaning in rainy conditions. “We are a good point of entry into Europe,” Pianelli concluded.
Last year, business aircraft movements at Lyon Bron reached 6,300. The existing hangars are fully booked for locally based aircraft and Pianelli has thus ordered more to be built. In September, the in-the-works H14 hangar will accommodate two ACJs or BBJs, or a greater number of smaller aircraft, in a heated 45,000-sq-ft space. The neighboring B14 building will, two months later, offer 9,700 sq ft on two “flexible” floors for offices, lounges etc. that charter companies and caterers may want to use. An extra apron, just built, is also available and can accommodate four large-cabin business jets.