L'Alpe d'Huez - Henri Giraud Altiport
Huez, Isère, FR · 1.9 km (1.2 mi) east-northeast of Huez
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Local Bus Service Bus · regular connections throughout the year | 45-60 min | :\u0026nbsp;null |
| Private Charter Flights Light aircraft · :\u0026nbsp;null | :\u0026nbsp;null | :\u0026nbsp;null |
| Rideshare Service Rideshare · :\u0026nbsp;null | 30-40 min | :\u0026nbsp;null |
| Scenic Helicopter Flights Helicopter · :\u0026nbsp;null | :\u0026nbsp;null | :\u0026nbsp;null |
Insider notes
Treat the altiport as a high-altitude niche; plan arrivals at colder times for optimal aircraft performance on the snow-covered strip.
Book helicopter sightseeing tours for mid-afternoon to avoid ski lift queues and capture golden-hour views over the valleys.
Expect last-minute diversions during poor weather; have contingency plans for travel through Grenoble or Lyon.
Welcome
L’Alpe d’Huez – Henri Giraud Altiport (AHZ) isn’t your typical airport. It’s perched high in the French Alps at 1,812 meters, with a snow-packed runway just 448 meters long in winter—a testament to aviation amid mountain majesty. This altiport feels like landing directly onto the ski pistes, attracting aviation enthusiasts and ski fans for an adrenaline-pumping runway thrill.
At a glance
The altiport serves as more of an adventure hub than a traditional airport. Pilots and skiers alike are drawn to the unique conditions and direct connection to the slopes. Although there are no scheduled commercial flights, scenic helicopter tours here offer breathtaking views over the Grandes Rousses massif. Be prepared for weather-related diversions as operators frequently reroute to Grenoble or Lyon.
Terminals & layout
There’s only one terminal—Main, encompassing all the essential facilities for a place this niche. With both helicopters and small private planes making regular appearances, the compactness is part of the charm. Don't expect high-street airport shopping here; focus instead on the essentials or enjoy some plane-spotting.
Getting to and from the city
Located 1.2 miles east-northeast of Huez, getting to the altiport isn't your typical ride. Shuttle services offer a journey of 30-50 minutes from the village, though helicopter transfers can cut travel time significantly. If you're driving, remember the 21 notorious hairpin bends that make the road to Alpe d’Huez a cyclist’s rite of passage. Budget extra time for snow on these twists, especially on changeover days.
Traveller essentials
Once on the ground, you'll find limited amenities outside of a duty-free shop, a souvenir shop, and a travel essentials store. The nearest full-service shopping and dining are in the village of Huez. Public transport options include local bus services (45-60 minutes) that link the altiport to regional hubs like Grenoble and Lyon.
Dining & shopping highlights
The culinary highlight of the altiport has to be Restaurant Altiport Henri Giraud, which reinvents traditional alpine dishes with a gourmet flair. A stop here for the refined tartiflette or other local delicacies is more than just a meal—it’s a memorable part of the altiport experience. For those needing a quick grab-and-go, there are basic duty-free and souvenir items available at the Main Terminal.
Lounges
Relaxation in such a rugged environment comes at the Altiport Henri Giraud Lounge located in the Main Terminal. Alternatively, you can choose from Lounge 1 (for €30) or Lounge 2 (€25), which offer more intimate spaces to unwind before or after your mountain adventure.
Insider tips
- Insider: Treat the altiport as a high-altitude niche; plan arrivals at colder times for optimal aircraft performance on the snow-covered strip.
- Time: Book helicopter sightseeing tours for mid-afternoon to avoid ski lift queues and capture golden-hour views over the valleys.
- Avoid: Expect last-minute diversions during poor weather; have contingency plans for travel through Grenoble or Lyon.
- Quiet: Planespot at Les Bergers, enjoying a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the bustling resort area.
- Local: Indulge in elevated mountain cuisine at Restaurant Altiport Henri Giraud—well worth the trip even for land-based dining.
- Money: If buying lounge access, know that Lounge 2 is slightly cheaper at €25, offering the same Alpine respite.