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Andorra Eyes Direct Paris Flights from La Seu Airport with Air Nostrum

Andorran officials assess viability of new Paris connection amid challenges, favoring Air Nostrum after five years on Madrid and Palma routes. Updates expected soon post-roundtable.

Key Points

  • David Forné prioritizes Paris route despite 50% longer distance than Madrid, limiting aircraft options.
  • Government meets Air Nostrum next Monday to review Madrid/Palma performance and May diversions.
  • Air Nostrum's contract expires year-end; extension or tender planned over summer.
  • Lisbon route deferred pending Paris feasibility.

The Andorran government is assessing the feasibility of launching a direct flight from Andorra-la Seu Airport to Paris, with Air Nostrum emerging as a potential operator. David Forné, Secretary of State for Energy Transition, Transport and Mobility, indicated that updates on the project could come soon.

Speaking after a recent Mobility Roundtable, Forné noted that the Paris route poses greater challenges than the existing Madrid connection, as the distance is nearly double—about 50% farther. This limits suitable aircraft options for departures and arrivals at the airport in Alt Urgell. Despite these hurdles, he prioritised a French link over others, such as Lisbon, citing Andorra's status as a co-principality with the French president as one co-prince and Paris's role as a major hub.

The government's transport team will meet Air Nostrum next Monday to review the current service's performance. The agenda includes explanations for flight diversions recorded in late May, including one carrying a Spanish Congress delegation. Forné said the session would examine whether these issues stemmed from unknown or uncontrollable factors. Operations have run smoothly since June, he added.

Air Nostrum has operated Andorra's routes to Madrid and Palma de Mallorca for five years under a contract expiring at the end of this year. Officials remain satisfied with the airline and would prefer it to continue, potentially expanding to Paris if viable. Over the summer, the executive will decide whether to extend the deal or launch a new tender.

Forné has held discussions with nearly all European carriers equipped for the airport's specifications since taking office. While no decisions are final, Air Nostrum would be a strong contender for any expanded project. A Lisbon route remains under consideration but deferred until the Paris option advances.

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