Nice Airport Expansion Set to Boost Regional Economy and Passenger Capacity

The Nice Côte d'Azur Airport, France's second largest, is undergoing a significant expansion to accommodate growing air traffic and bolster regional economic development. Handling 14.8 million passengers in 2024 and connecting 122 destinations across 45 countries, including 13 long-haul routes, the airport is poised to increase its passenger capacity to 18 million.

The extension project, costing 140 million euros, involves a 23,000 m² enlargement of Terminal 2, expected to partially open by spring 2026. It will feature new check-in zones, baggage sorting systems, and additional boarding gates aimed at enhancing passenger experience and operational efficiency.

This expansion is driven not only by rising passenger numbers but also by the airport's role in boosting the attractiveness and connectivity of the region. According to Franck Goldnadel, CEO of Aéroports de la Côte d’Azur, the project supports economic impact through 9,000 direct and 40,000 indirect jobs linked to airport activities.

Importantly, environmental sustainability is integrated into the project with measures including no net land artificialization and the use of geothermal and photovoltaic energy, maintaining harmony with the nearby Natura 2000 protected area.

Overall, the Nice Airport expansion represents a proactive infrastructure investment aimed at sustaining passenger growth while fostering economic vitality and ecological responsibility in the region.