Geneva International Airport or Cointrin Airport (GVA)

About Geneva International Airport (GVA)

Geneva International Airport is Switzerland's second busiest airport and the main gateway to the French-speaking part of the country, just 4 km from the city centre. Handling over 17 million passengers annually, GVA is uniquely situated on the Swiss-French border, with a dedicated French sector allowing passengers to connect directly to France without entering Switzerland.

Cointrin Airport Details - Geneva International Airport IATA, Address and Pin Code

• Official Name: Geneva International Airport
• IATA Code: GVA
• ICAO Code: LSGG
• Address: Route de l'Aéroport 21, 1215 Geneva 15, Switzerland
• Airport Pin Code: 1215
• Distance from Geneva City Centre: Approximately 4 km northwest of central Geneva
• Phone Number: +41 22 717 71 11
• Old Name: Cointrin Airport (still referenced locally)

How Many Airports in Geneva?

Geneva is primarily served by one commercial airport, GVA. Nearby Annecy Haute-Savoie Mont-Blanc Airport in France handles only small regional and private flights. All scheduled commercial services operate from GVA.

How Many Terminals in Geneva Airport?

GVA operates from a single terminal with a Swiss sector for passengers entering Switzerland and a French sector for direct access to France without Swiss border control. Pier A handles Schengen flights and Pier B serves non-Schengen routes, keeping passenger flows clearly separated.

Distance Between Geneva Airport Terminals

GVA has a single terminal, so no inter-terminal transfer is needed. All check-in, gates, and arrivals are within the same building. The walk between Pier A and Pier B takes around 10 minutes. Passengers transiting between the Swiss and French sectors should note that separate immigration procedures apply.

How Many Runways in Geneva Airport?

GVA has one main runway, designated 04/22, stretching approximately 3,900 metres, with a shorter secondary runway 05/23 available in certain conditions. The single primary runway means operations are carefully sequenced, particularly during the busy ski season when demand peaks sharply.

Visa and Immigration for Geneva Airport

Indian passport holders require a Schengen visa to enter Switzerland through Geneva Airport. Here is what Indian travellers need to know:

• Apply for a short-stay Schengen visa (Type C) through the Swiss Embassy or VFS Global centres in Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, or Hyderabad.
• A Schengen visa allows stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period across 27 member countries.
• Required documents include a valid passport, travel insurance with at least 30,000 euros coverage, confirmed accommodation, return ticket, and bank statements.
• Apply at least 3 to 4 weeks before travel. The same Schengen visa is valid for both Switzerland and France, covering both airport sectors.
• On arrival, Indian passport holders must clear non-Schengen immigration. Border officers may ask for your visa, accommodation details, and proof of funds.

Geneva Airport Lounges and Facilities

GVA has the Swiss Business Lounge, No. 1 Lounge via Priority Pass, and airline lounges for premium passengers. General facilities include free Wi-Fi, duty-free retail with Swiss watches and chocolates, diverse dining, currency exchange, ATMs, luggage storage, medical services, baby care rooms, and an observation terrace with views of Mont Blanc on clear days.

Things to Do in Geneva Airport

The duty-free area stocks Swiss watches, chocolates, luxury goods, and local spirits. Dining ranges from Swiss-style cafes to international options. The terminal has art installations, a children's play area, a gym, relaxation zones, and charging stations. The observation terrace with Alpine views is a highlight for passengers with extra time.

Places to Visit Near Geneva Airport

• Geneva City Centre: Just 4 km away, home to the Jet d'Eau, Old Town, UN headquarters, and Lake Geneva waterfront.
• CERN: The world's largest particle physics laboratory, about 5 km from the airport, offering free public tours.
• Palais des Nations: The European UN headquarters, approximately 3 km from GVA, open for guided visits.
• Chamonix-Mont-Blanc: The legendary Alpine resort about 85 km from the airport, accessible by bus or train.
• Lausanne: A lakeside Swiss city around 60 km away, home to the Olympic Museum.

FAQs About Geneva Airport - Geneva International Airport (GVA)

What is the Official Name of Geneva Airport?

The official name is Geneva International Airport, also locally known as Cointrin Airport after the district where it is situated.

What is the IATA Code for Geneva International Airport?

The IATA code is GVA, visible on boarding passes, luggage tags, and booking confirmations.

Which Terminals Serve Domestic and International Flights at Geneva Airport?

All flights operate from the single terminal. Pier A serves Schengen routes and Pier B handles non-Schengen flights. A French sector provides direct access to France without Swiss border control.

Where is Geneva Airport Located?

GVA is approximately 4 km northwest of Geneva city centre in Switzerland, with part of the airport extending into French territory.

When Was Geneva Airport Built?

Geneva Airport was established in 1920, making it one of Europe's oldest commercial airports, and has been modernised and expanded multiple times since.

Is GVA Open 24 Hours?

GVA operates under a night curfew, with flights generally restricted between 00:00 and 06:00. Check your flight times carefully if you have an early departure or late arrival.

How Far is Geneva Airport from Geneva City Center?

GVA is just 4 km from the city centre. The train connects the airport to Geneva Cornavin station in around 7 minutes and is free for departing passengers with a boarding pass.

What Airlines Operate from GVA?

Swiss International Air Lines is the primary carrier. Others include easyJet, British Airways, Lufthansa, Air France, Turkish Airlines, and Emirates.

Are There Lounges at Geneva Airport?

Yes. GVA has the Swiss Business Lounge, No. 1 Lounge via Priority Pass, and airline lounges offering food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and showers.