Bucharest Airport: Henri Coanda International Airport (OTP)

Bucharest Airport, officially known as Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP), is your first step into this captivating city, Romania's Capital - Bucharest. Here's an in-depth guide to help you easily navigate Bucharest Airport, whether arriving, departing, or transiting through OTP.

Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP)

Henri Coandă International Airport, often called Otopeni Airport - OTP, is Romania's busiest airport, handling millions of passengers annually. Named after the pioneering Romanian aviation engineer Henri Coandă, the airport is in Otopeni, about 16.5 kilometres (10.3 miles) north of Bucharest's city center.

Basically, OTP airport is not inside Bucharest but inside the larger metropolitan area, in Otopeni, which is the symbol of OTP. However, all international travellers know it as "the Bucharest Airport."

Flights and Airlines at Henri Coanda International Airport

Henri Coandă International Airport, the busiest airport in Romania, is a critical hub for domestic and international flights. It connects Bucharest to many global destinations, making it a vital link for travellers entering and exiting the country. Here's a detailed look at the flights and airlines operating at Bucharest Airport.

Flights via Henri Coanda International Airport

Major Airlines Operating at OTP

Henri Coandă International Airport hosts numerous airlines, catering to full-service and low-cost travel needs. Here are some of the prominent airlines:

  • TAROM: Romania's national airline, TAROM, offers extensive coverage of domestic routes and numerous international destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. TAROM is a preferred choice for many travellers because of its reliability and quality service.
  • Wizz Air: This popular low-cost carrier provides extensive connections to various European cities, making it an affordable option for budget-conscious travellers. Wizz Air's network includes destinations in the UK, Germany, Italy, Spain, etc.
  • Ryanair: Another major low-cost airline, Ryanair, offers numerous flights to key European destinations, providing competitive pricing and frequent services.
  • International Carriers: Major international airlines such as Lufthansa, Air France, British Airways, Turkish Airlines, and Qatar Airways operate regular flights to and from Bucharest, connecting Romania with the rest of the world.

Popular Flight Routes

Henri Coandă International Airport offers an extensive network of routes connecting Bucharest to major cities worldwide. Here are some of the most popular destinations:

  • Domestic Flights:
    • Cluj-Napoca: Multiple daily flights make it convenient to travel between Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca, a key city in Romania's Transylvania region.
    • Timișoara: Frequent flights connect the capital with this important cultural and economic hub in western Romania.
  • European Destinations:
    • London: Daily flights by multiple airlines, including British Airways, Wizz Air, and Ryanair, make London one of the top destinations from Bucharest.
    • Paris: Air France and TAROM provide regular services to Paris, offering both convenience and flexibility.
    • Frankfurt: Lufthansa and TAROM connect Bucharest with Frankfurt, a major global financial center.
  • Middle East and Asia:
    • Istanbul: Turkish Airlines offers several daily flights to Istanbul, a key gateway to Asia and beyond.
    • Doha: Qatar Airways provides direct flights to Doha, facilitating connections to various destinations in Asia and Australasia.
  • North America:
    • Although direct flights to North America are limited, many international airlines offer one-stop connections to major cities like New York, Toronto, and Los Angeles through European hubs like London, Paris, and Frankfurt.

Booking and Check-In

  • Online Booking: Most airlines offer online booking options, making it convenient to secure flights in advance. Websites and mobile apps provide easy access to the latest deals and promotions.
  • Check-In Options:
    • Online Check-In: For most airlines, online check-in opens 24 to 48 hours before departure, allowing passengers to select seats and print boarding passes.
    • Airport Check-In: For those who prefer in-person assistance, check-in counters and self-service kiosks are available at the airport. It's recommended to arrive at least two hours before international flights and one hour before domestic flights to allow ample time for check-in and security screening.

Henri Coanda Airport: Key Features and Facilities

Bucharest Airport Henri Coanda International Airport (OTP) map
  • Terminals: The airport features a single terminal divided into two sections: one for domestic flights and another for international flights. This makes navigation clear, with clear signage in both Romanian and English.
  • Transportation Options: The airport is well-connected to Bucharest through various modes of transportation:
    • Train: The Henri Coandă Express connects the airport to the Bucharest North Railway Station. Trains run frequently, providing a convenient option for travellers. You can check the train departures for Herni Coandă Airport here.
    • Bus: Bus line 100 connects the airport with the city center, Unirii Square. Line 100 runs at 15-minute intervals during the day and 30-minute intervals at night. Bus stops are in front of the Arrivals Terminal and the Departures Terminal.
    • Taxi and Ride-Sharing: Official taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are available, offering quick and comfortable rides into the city.
    • Car Rentals: Numerous car rental agencies operate within the airport, allowing you to explore Romania at your own pace.

Services and Amenities at OTP Airport

Henri Coandă International Airport offers a range of services and amenities to ensure a pleasant experience:

  • Wi-Fi: Free high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal.
  • Lounges: Several lounges are available for a fee or through various loyalty programs, providing a quiet place to relax before your flight.
  • Shopping and Dining: A variety of shops, from duty-free outlets to souvenir stores, and numerous dining options cater to all tastes and preferences.
  • Airport Hotels: For long layovers or early flights, nearby hotels like the Vienna House Easy Airport Bucharest provide convenient accommodation options. For all the other travellers looking for hotels in Bucharest, we invite you check our selection.

Passenger Tips when Flying from Bucharest Airport OTP

Even if you're a frequent international traveller, it's good you know some tips when flying from Henri Coanda Internatioal Airport Otopeni.

  • Arrive Early: During peak travel seasons, allow extra time for check-in and security procedures. Sometimes, there could be events that slow down the whole process. Better arrive early than being late.
  • Currency Exchange: Although ATMs are available, exchanging some currency at the airport is wise for immediate needs.
  • Security and Customs: Be aware of Romania's security and customs regulations to ensure a smooth entry and exit process.
  • Travel Assistance: Look for information desks for help; staff are generally bilingual.

Exploring Bucharest from the Airport

Once you've landed, Bucharest's attractions await the international travellers:

Contact Information

Henri Coandă International Airport is a transit point and the first glimpse of Romanian hospitality. Efficient, modern, and welcoming, it sets the tone for your journey in Bucharest and beyond. Whether you're here for a quick visit or an extended stay, Bucharest Airport ensures your travel experience starts and ends on a high note.

Visit Bucharest invites you to explore this dynamic city, starting with a smooth arrival at its bustling airport. Safe travels!

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