Press Release

Issued by Universal Weather and Aviation.

May 18, 2016

Universal Aviation France is recommending business aviation operators planning to attend the Euro Football Championship, or operating in the region during this time, begin planning now. The event takes place from June 10 to July 10 at 10 locations across France, and high general aviation (GA) and local traffic is expected.

“We anticipate heavy traffic throughout the country,” said Sandrine Jackson, managing director, Universal Aviation France. “For operations to France during the Euro Football Championship, it's best to address all lead time items as early as possible from permits and airport slots to crew accommodations and transportation options. Be mindful that additional operating restrictions may be announced, via NOTAM, closer to the event. Try to avoid schedule changes, as this could negatively impact your airport slot and parking approvals and options.”

Euro Football Championship events take place at Paris, Nice, Marseille, Lyon, Lille, Lens, Bordeaux, Toulouse, and Saint-Etienne. All of the primary airports are airports of entry (AOEs) with specific operating hours for this event. The operating hours can be found on the Cohor website.

“One of the primary challenges operators will face is parking, particularly during the opening and closing ceremonies at Paris,” said Jackson. “The 2016 Euro Football Championship period is also peak season for the South of France, airport congestion and limited aircraft parking availability will be accentuated within the region.”

Other operational considerations include: night restrictions at Le Bourget, slots, landing permits (for non-European Union charter, non-scheduled commercial operations), approved technical questionnaire for charter flights, hotels, ground services, and security.

“Expect local transport options to also be in high demand, including prepaid transport (car with driver) and public taxi services. And, be advised that it's not uncommon in France for taxis to go on strike during the busy summer months,” advised Jackson. “Also, France has closed its borders to open travel within the Schengen region. This means that all passengers and crew arriving from outside France must go through immigration checks, even if just traveling within the EU.”

EBACE2016 attendees with questions can visit Universal exhibit #X089.