Information and Travel Guide for Geneva International Airport Geneva International Airport (GVA)
Geneva International Airport is located at a mere distance of 4 km from the heart of Geneva and offers quick access to main town. The fact that it is located on the Swiss and French border means that the airport is sectionalized, whereby each country maintains its separate terminals. However, these terminals are easily connected and therefore do not pose problems to passengers. The destinations that are covered by the airport largely include those from Middle East and Europe such as Lisbon, Rome, Paris, Dubai, Glasgow, Athens and Madrid. Intercontinental flights are also offered to destinations such as Washington DC and Montreal.
History
Initially the airport was created as a simple field in the year 1919. It was not until 1937 that the first runway was constructed and soon afterwards in 1938, several airlines were operating within the Airport. The main terminal of the airport was inaugurated in the year 1968 with an estimated capacity of seven million customers. The airport was then linked with the Swiss railway station and since then a number of improvements have been made to update the airport.
Services and Amenities
Travellers are facilitated with ATMs, money transfers, internet ports and telephone booths whereas luggage facilities are also widely available. The airport also provides equipment for business travellers with a special Altitude Lounge that is specifically designed for conferencing purposes and can accommodate 300 attendees. The airport also offers a prayer area, dry cleaners, and salon, shower rooms, travel agencies and a lot more to its passengers. Free Wi-Fi service is available to all passengers within the airport perimeters. The airport offers several shopping outlets ranging from duty free shops to kids shops. It also has a variety of restaurants, bars and cafes that offer all kinds of food ranging from fast food to Swiss specialties.
Parking & Transportation
Car parking lots are extensive within the airport and charges vary according to the distance of the lot with P51 being the most economical option whereas P2 and P3 allow 10 minutes free parking time. Train service is easily available from the arrival and departure zone at every 12 minutes whereas the bus services are also available nearby that offer free transport in return for a Unireso ticket. Taxis are also available although not commonly used due to their high standard and variable charges.
Security
Normal security protocols are followed at the airport, including screening of electronics (such as laptops) and removal of shoes and belts.
Surrounding Places to Stay
Several hotels are located nearby and a shuttle service is usually offered by hotels for transporting passengers. Reservations can be made before hand from travel agencies present within the arrival area. Some of the known hotels include Crowne Plaza, Express by Holiday Inn, InterContinental Geneva, Movenpick Hotel and Casino and NH Geneva Airport Hotel. The charges vary according to service provided and the duration of the stay.
Contact Information:
Website: http://www.gva.ch/en E-mail: [email protected] Address: Geneva International Airport, PO Box 100, CH-1215 Geneva 15, Switzerland Number of Terminals: 2 (with Swiss and French sectors) Telephone: +41 (0)22 717 7111 Fax: +41 (0)22 798 4377 Time Zone: GMT + 1 (GMT + 2 from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October) Location: The airport is located 5km (3 miles) north of Geneva IATA airport code: GVA