Today marks the inauguration of a new terminal in the Roland Garros Airport in La Réunion, France, which means that the region is now home to the world’s first bioclimatic airport terminal. Thanks to more than €66 million in support from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) for the 2014 – 2020 programming period, this investment will support local economic growth, improve connectivity to this EU outermost region, and has contributed to the decarbonisation of infrastructure.
- 15 March 2024
Commissioner for Cohesion and Reforms Elisa Ferreira said: “Having visited the airport one year ago, I was very impressed by the innovation behind this project, which becomes the world’s first airport with a bioclimatic terminal and is a huge achievement in terms of energy efficiency. Once again, we have shown that Cohesion Policy is accelerating local economic growth and creating jobs while contributing to the EU’s climate objectives.”
The new arrivals’ terminal uses wind to cool the building, with its modern design and innovative engineering optimising renewable energy use and natural ventilation. Photovoltaic panels have also been installed to provide electricity for the running of the airport’s activities. For this terminal, the passenger arrival areas have been reconfigured and the upgraded baggage handling system is compliant with the guidelines set out in the latest EU Security regulation.
The airport also supports 18 600 direct jobs and is expected to contribute 4% to the island’s overall GDP; it is a vital driver of economic growth for the local community.
For the 2021-2027 programmes, Cohesion Policy financing for airports is allowed only for the EU’s 9 Outermost Regions, including La Réunion. To improve connectivity to these outermost regions, the authorities may utilise ERDF investments for the construction of airports and associated infrastructure.
More information
More information on EU-funded projects in La Réunion is available here.