Réunion Roland Garros Airport is committed to a major modernisation programme, co-financed by the European Union through the FEDER scheme, the French State and the Réunion Region. As the entry point for 95% of the island's international travellers, its infrastructure will directly determine Réunion's tourism and economic competitiveness over the next decade.
The New Arrival Terminal: A Bioclimatic Design
The flagship project is the new arrival terminal, designed according to bioclimatic principles adapted to Réunion's conditions. The building is the subject of a reference publication — "Une Aérogare Bioclimatique" — available at the airport, detailing the architectural approach aimed at minimising mechanical cooling needs while offering quality passenger facilities.
Several Construction Sites in Parallel
The overhaul of the traffic area aims to modernise ground-side aeronautical zones to improve safety and operational performance. In parallel, the development of car parks and access roads is described as "the first stage of the airport extension project", signalling long-term capacity ambitions. A fourth project concerns coastal protection to preserve runway infrastructure against shoreline erosion.
Why It Matters
For Réunion, the quality of its airport infrastructure is a prerequisite for any tourism upgrade strategy. Against a backdrop where the sector recorded revenues of €250.9 million in the first half of 2026, the capacity to welcome more passengers in better conditions will quickly become a differentiating factor against competing Indian Ocean destinations.