Lyon, March 26 – The air route between Lyon and Poitiers, which was dramatically reopened in October 2025 after a two-year interruption, is already facing significant challenges that could lead to its premature closure. Operated by Volotea under a public service delegation, the line’s future is in question following a statement from Alain Pichon, president of the Vienne Department and the Poitiers airport union.
Dispute Between Department and Grand Poitiers
Alain Pichon has accused Grand Poitiers of requesting the termination of the contract with Volotea. In a strongly worded statement, Pichon expressed his dismay, asking, “How far will they go in their desire to close Poitiers airport?” He further announced, “With my colleagues from the Department, we will retaliate and initiate proceedings against Grand Poitiers.”
Florence Jardin, president of Grand Poitiers, denied these claims in an interview with La Nouvelle République, stating, “Not at all!” She clarified, “We do not have the majority within the union.” Jardin explained her position, stating, “We are not changing our attitude; we are just reiterating that there are other models and that this Poitiers-Lyon flight with a 180-seat aircraft is not necessarily what we need because it is expensive and burdens the finances. In our opinion, there are other priorities, and we reiterate that we want a new set of specifications to be drawn up.”
Underperforming Route and Financial Concerns
The controversy stems from the route’s performance since its reopening. Five months after the resumption of flights, the passenger numbers are reportedly well below the initial targets, according to La Nouvelle République. Volotea’s objective for the route was to achieve a load factor of around 90%, aiming for approximately 134,000 passengers by 2029.
When contacted by actu Lyon, the Spanish airline Volotea declined to comment on the matter, stating they “will not comment on this file.”
Background of the Route and Future Implications
The Lyon-Poitiers route was reactivated with significant fanfare, highlighting the importance of regional air connectivity. The current dispute underscores the financial pressures and differing strategic visions among local authorities regarding public transport infrastructure and investment.
The potential closure of the route could have implications for regional connectivity and the economic development of both Lyon and Poitiers. The disagreement between the Department of Vienne and Grand Poitiers highlights broader challenges in managing public services and ensuring their financial viability, especially when involving private operators under public service delegation agreements.
Stakeholders are now awaiting further developments as the Department of Vienne prepares to retaliate against Grand Poitiers, potentially escalating the conflict and further jeopardizing the future of the Lyon-Poitiers air link.
Source: https://actu.fr/auvergne-rhone-alpes/colombier-saugnieu_69299/aeroport-de-lyon-tempete-sur-cette-nouvelle-ligne-volotea-tout-juste-ouverte_64056393.html
