Ryanair Eyes Summer 2026 Return to Bergerac Airport, Reviving Vital Air Connections
Potential Summer 2026 Comeback
Fauvel expressed strong confidence Ryanair will return to Bergerac in summer 2026, restoring crucial international air links for the region’s travellers. French media speculated about possible airport closure, but officials quickly reassured residents that Bergerac’s essential role in tourism guarantees continued operations.
The airport generates €60–€100 million annually, fueling Dordogne, southern Gironde, Lot-et-Garonne, and surrounding economies reliant on strong air connectivity.
Winter Flight Cancellations and Local Reaction
Ryanair cancelled all winter flights to Bergerac due to rising airline taxes, alongside similar cuts to Brive and Strasbourg airports in June. This suspension affects approximately 18,000 passengers but does not reflect a permanent closure, as most traffic occurs seasonally between April and October.
Christophe Fauvel emphasised that airport runway work scheduled between January and February will not impact the summer flight schedule or passenger operations.
Bergerac’s Appeal for Travelers
The small southwestern French town attracts tourists with its half-timbered historic buildings, narrow cobbled streets, and lively central square atmosphere. Visitors enjoy the Musée de Tabac, which showcases tobacco heritage, and Maison des Vins, highlighting the Dordogne region’s celebrated wine culture.
River cruises along the Dordogne River provide a calm, scenic experience, while Bordeaux and Toulouse remain accessible within two-and-a-half hours by car.
Supporting Airlines and Regional Connectivity
Other airlines, including Vueling and Volotea, plan to introduce new routes linking Bergerac with Great Britain, strengthening the area’s international accessibility. Ryanair currently operates flights from London Stansted, Bristol, Bournemouth, Liverpool, Edinburgh, and East Midlands, while British Airways and Jet2 serve additional regional airports.
Fauvel reaffirmed that maintaining these air connections is critical for the local economy and ensures the continued flow of tourists and residents alike.