Air France Concludes Operations at Paris-Orly Airport

Air France is set to conclude its operations at Paris-Orly Airport on March 28, 2026, marking the end of an 80-year relationship with the southern airport. The airline's final flight, AF6231, will arrive from Nice at approximately 9:55 PM local time. This strategic shift focuses Air France's services on the larger Charles de Gaulle Airport, located northeast of Paris, which will continue to facilitate flights to major cities such as Nice, Toulouse, and Marseille.

RFI (Radio France Internationale)The Straits TimesAir France leaves Orly after 80 years of history – Interview

The decision to withdraw from Orly was announced in late 2023 and is attributed to a significant decline in passenger demand, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Factors influencing this decline include an increase in video conferencing, reduced domestic business travel, and a growing preference for train travel within France. Air France plans to enhance its operations at Charles de Gaulle, increasing the frequency of flights to Toulouse, Nice, and Marseille to 12, 12, and 10 daily flights, respectively.

The Straits TimesRFI (Radio France Internationale)Air France leaves Orly after 80 years of history – Interview

The departure from Orly signifies a pivotal moment in the history of French aviation. Orly has been a central hub for Air France, especially during the post-World War II era when transatlantic flights were at their peak. The airline's exit from Orly not only reflects changing travel habits but also highlights the broader transformation within the airline industry, where competition from high-speed rail and evolving consumer preferences are reshaping domestic air transport.

Air France leaves Orly after 80 years of history – InterviewThe Straits TimesRFI (Radio France Internationale)

While Air France will cease its operations at Orly, its budget subsidiary, Transavia, will continue to operate from the airport, launching new services to Toulouse, Nice, and Marseille starting March 29, 2026. This transition aims to maintain a presence at Orly while focusing on enhancing connectivity from Charles de Gaulle.

RFI (Radio France Internationale)The Straits TimesAir France leaves Orly after 80 years of history – Interview

Air France stated that the refocusing of operations at Charles de Gaulle is intended to streamline international connections and strengthen links with French regions and overseas territories. The airline emphasized that this move is a response to structural changes in demand and aims to adapt to the evolving landscape of air travel.

RFI (Radio France Internationale)

Some industry analysts have expressed concerns regarding the implications of Air France's departure from Orly. Critics argue that this move may limit options for travelers who prefer the convenience of Orly for domestic flights, potentially leading to increased congestion at Charles de Gaulle. The shift could also impact local economies that benefit from the traffic generated by Orly.

The Straits Times

• “This departure represents much more than a simple change of platform.” — Air France spokesperson

Air France leaves Orly after 80 years of history – Interview

• “Air France is ending a historic presence at an airport that has long been one of its main hubs.” — Aviation expert

Air France leaves Orly after 80 years of history – Interview

• “This refocusing of operations at Paris-Charles de Gaulle will make international connections easier and strengthen links with the French regions and overseas territories,” — Air France statement

RFI (Radio France Internationale)

As Air France transitions its operations, the airline will continue to monitor passenger demand and adapt its services accordingly. The final flight at Orly will serve as a symbolic closure to a significant chapter in the airline's history, while the focus shifts to enhancing operations at Charles de Gaulle.

The Straits Times