Barcelonnette - Saint-Pons Airfield (BAE)

🏢 Terminal Guide & Navigation

Barcelonnette - Saint-Pons Airfield (BAE) serves the town of Barcelonnette in the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence department of France, nestled in a picturesque alpine valley. This aerodrome is primarily dedicated to general aviation, gliding, and mountain flying, attracting pilots and enthusiasts to its scenic high-altitude setting. It does not host scheduled commercial passenger services; commercial travelers typically utilize larger regional airports like Nice (NCE) or Marseille (MRS) for their connections. The facilities are basic, typically consisting of a single paved runway and a small administrative building that supports flight operations and local flying clubs.\n\nOperational procedures at BAE are strictly for general aviation and follow specific mountain flying protocols. There is no air traffic control tower, and pilots communicate on a Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF) or with local airfield services. Due to the high altitude and surrounding mountainous terrain, density altitude calculations and unpredictable mountain winds are significant operational factors. Pilots are often required to have specialized mountain flying endorsements. There are no security checkpoints or baggage handling systems typical of commercial airports.\n\nAmenities at Barcelonnette - Saint-Pons Airfield are limited, catering primarily to pilots and local flying clubs. The administrative building may include a small office, potentially a club lounge, and restrooms. There are no on-site restaurants, retail shops, or extensive passenger services. For refreshments, meals, or accommodation, visitors will need to travel into Barcelonnette town, which is a short drive away. The airfield serves as a functional base for aviation activities in the Ubaye Valley and as a starting point for exploring the Mercantour National Park.