Airport Paris Saclay Versailles (LFPN) IFR

Formerly "Toussus Le Noble." Despite certain restrictions, a heavily used IFR field for the city for light GA. But VFR pilots (especially local) also use it a lot. However, no UK or CH flights are possible here anymore. Biggest issue: currently up to 10 days per month (!) with no ATS (see NOTAM), and during those times non-based aircraft are generally not permitted to depart/land. Unfortunately that makes it only of limited use now. Great IFR approach to 25R. IFR departures off 07L usually offer good views over the city as well. VFR arrivals from the east are of course complicated; better use LFPL. If you do go, strictly adhere to the VAC. Many noise opponents. If you enter the blue-marked noise abatement areas on the approach chart without good reason, you’ll get into trouble. Flying at night is categorically prohibited at Toussus; it is not a 24-hour field, unlike many others in France. Another operational limitation: VFR aircraft in the circuit and in LR-35A around the field may fly a maximum of 100 kt or 1.45 x Vs (again for noise abatement). You don’t have to (and can’t) pay landing fees on site. The invoice is—at least in theory—sent by post. Landing costs about €29; parking is another €24 per 24h. Since 2024 you can also pay via aerops. For 100LL/jet fuel there is a TOTAL fuel truck for each; payment by credit card or TOTAL Card is possible. Delays may occur. In addition, since 2023 there has been a fixed fuel station on the field for ethanol-free premium gasoline with 98 octane. Otherwise, you feel a bit “lost” and “alone” on the field. It is hardly set up for visitors, more for home-based traffic. For visiting light aircraft there are only 13 asphalt parking positions in total, which (rarely) can also be full; you then have to switch to grass (or pay a handling agent). The small arrivals building (not the tower building, but the small one next to it) is always deserted. There are two restaurants: in the tower building, “Le Bouchon.” However, it has little charm and a rather poor reputation even among local pilots. Also, about 600 meters further to the southwest, “Air & Cook” (closed Sundays and Mondays). This one is good. If you just want a lunch stop there, you can register with the “Aero Touring Club de France” and then park right at the door. There is also a pilot shop on the field. UBER/Bolt to Paris cost between €40 and €75 (depends, among other things, on the time of day). Many people go only as far as the RER station at Versailles (Chantiers) and then take the train towards Paris-Montparnasse. A taxi straight to the Palace of Versailles is about €30. For departure, including VFR, GND requires a start-up request.

Great experience. Got ramp checked but it was very friendly (of course all was in order with the paperwork). airport and airspace very busy. Got the ILS runway 22 and it brings amazing views on Paris, as it comes right a the edge of the prohibited area, so need to be careful to not go off course...