Courchevel Altiport
An extreme alpine airport with a famously short, sloped runway, offering dramatic landings and breathtaking views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for clear views & landings
Courchevel Altiport
Best Time
Best for clear views & landings
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An extreme alpine airport with a famously short, sloped runway, offering dramatic landings and breathtaking views.
"Courchevel Altiport isn’t showing off—it simply doesn’t know how to be modest."
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture incredible shots of planes landing on the extreme runway. Best from the viewing areas!
✈️ Witness the Landing
Arrive early to secure a good spot for watching the dramatic takeoffs and landings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Dramatic Landing
Courchevel Altiport Runway
Witness pilots navigate a short, sloped runway with no go-around option. A true test of skill!
Spectacular Alpine Views
Courchevel Altiport
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the French Alps from this unique mountaintop location.
Private Jet Spotting
Courchevel Altiport
See luxury private jets and helicopters arrive and depart from one of Europe's most exclusive airports.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
The Thrill of the Approach
Exclusive Access & Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture incredible shots of planes landing on the extreme runway. Best from the viewing areas! 
✈️ Witness the Landing
Arrive early to secure a good spot for watching the dramatic takeoffs and landings.
🚁 Helicopter Transfers
Consider a helicopter transfer from Geneva for a truly spectacular arrival experience.
🥾 Limited Facilities
It's an operational airport, so expect minimal amenities. Focus on the views and aviation.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Capture incredible shots of planes landing on the extreme runway. Best from the viewing areas!
✈️ Witness the Landing
Arrive early to secure a good spot for watching the dramatic takeoffs and landings.
🚁 Helicopter Transfers
Consider a helicopter transfer from Geneva for a truly spectacular arrival experience.
🥾 Limited Facilities
It's an operational airport, so expect minimal amenities. Focus on the views and aviation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Courchevel Altiport is an extraordinary aviation site, lauded for its spectacular alpine setting and the sheer skill required for its challenging runway. Visitors are captivated by the dramatic landings of private jets and helicopters, offering a glimpse into a world of exclusive travel. While facilities are minimal, the unique experience and breathtaking views make it a memorable destination for aviation enthusiasts and those seeking a touch of luxury.
"Courchevel Altiport (LFLJ) is not your average runway—it's part landing strip, part luxury parade. Perched like a Bond villain’s driveway in the snowy French Alps, it welcomes jets that gleam brighter than the skiers’ teeth below.
The descent? A downhill slope that gives even seasoned pilots sweaty palms. You don’t land here—you arrive.
Passengers? Mostly the ultra-wealthy doing après-ski with style. If there's a snowflake out of place, someone probably complained from a leather-clad chopper.
Facilities? Minimalist chic: because when you fly private, who needs a food court?
Perfect for those who treat altitude like attitude. Courchevel isn’t showing off—it simply doesn’t know how to be modest."
Steve Mops
"Short runway. Nice place to have some photos and see the plane take off"
Nguyen Ngoc
"I believe this place has the shortest runway in the world! It's remarkable seeing planes take off in incredibly low visibility weather."
SummeryKnight74
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Courchevel Altiport is by private jet or helicopter, often from Geneva Airport. Some specialized charter flights may also be available.
While you can drive to Courchevel village, accessing the altiport itself is primarily for arriving aircraft. Public access to the immediate runway area is restricted.
No, Courchevel Altiport is not a commercial airport. It primarily serves private aviation, including business jets and helicopters.
The runway is famously short (537 meters) and has a significant upward slope (18.5%), making it one of the most challenging in the world.
Yes, visitors can often observe landings and takeoffs from designated viewing areas, offering a thrilling spectacle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, no specific ticket is required to visit the viewing areas to watch planes. However, access to the tarmac or operational areas is restricted.
The altiport operates during daylight hours, with flight schedules varying. It's best to check general flight tracking sites for potential activity.
There are typically no entry fees for spectators wishing to observe from public viewing points.
Flights are generally booked through private charter companies or helicopter services. It's not a destination for standard commercial bookings.
Facilities are minimal, focusing on the operational needs of the airport. Don't expect extensive visitor amenities like cafes or shops.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
Designated viewing areas near the runway offer excellent vantage points for capturing dramatic landings and takeoffs.
Yes, photography is generally permitted from public viewing areas. However, always be mindful of operational safety and security.
You'll primarily see luxury private jets, such as the Pilatus PC-12, and various types of helicopters.
The views are spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of the snow-capped French Alps.
No, for safety reasons, visitors cannot get close to the aircraft. Viewing is from a safe distance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key recommendations for families:
* Pack warm clothing: The alpine environment can be cold, even during the day.
* Bring binoculars: For a closer look at the aircraft.
* Explain the runway: Talk about why it's sloped and short, making it a fun learning experience.
+1✈️ Aviation Enthusiasts
+2Tips for aviation enthusiasts:
* Research flight schedules: While unpredictable, checking flight tracking sites can give you an idea of potential activity.
* Focus on the pilots' skill: Appreciate the expertise required to navigate this unique airport.
* Capture the action: Bring your best camera gear to photograph the dramatic approaches and departures.
📸 Photography Buffs
+1Photography tips:
* Wide-angle lens: To capture the scale of the runway and the surrounding mountains.
* Telephoto lens: For detailed shots of the aircraft during landing and takeoff.
* Be patient: Aircraft movements can be infrequent, so be prepared to wait for the perfect shot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Engineering Marvel: Courchevel's Extreme Runway
+2The construction of this altiport in the 1960s was a feat of engineering, carving a landing strip directly into the rugged alpine terrain. It was built to provide exclusive access to the prestigious Courchevel ski resort, catering to an elite clientele. The airport's design is a testament to human ingenuity in overcoming natural obstacles to create a functional, albeit highly specialized, aviation hub.
+1For aviation enthusiasts and spectators, witnessing a landing or takeoff at Courchevel Altiport is an unforgettable experience. The precision required from pilots, the dramatic visual of aircraft navigating the sloped runway, and the stunning alpine backdrop create a truly unique spectacle. It's a place where aviation meets extreme sports, offering a glimpse into a world of high-performance flying.
An Exclusive Gateway: Courchevel's Elite Clientele
+1The experience at Courchevel Altiport is tailored to its elite clientele. Upon arrival, passengers are often met by chauffeurs or luxury transfer services, whisking them away to opulent chalets and five-star hotels. The minimalist facilities at the altiport itself reflect this focus on efficiency and discretion, prioritizing a seamless transition from air to ground for those accustomed to the finest services.
For those visiting to observe, the allure lies in spotting these magnificent aircraft and imagining the lifestyles they represent. It's a place where the convergence of extreme aviation and high-end tourism creates a unique and captivating atmosphere. While the facilities are basic, the spectacle of the planes and the breathtaking mountain scenery make it a worthwhile visit for aviation buffs and luxury travel enthusiasts alike.
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