Civil Airfield Arcachon La Teste De Buch (LFCH)

LFCH is well suited for general aviation visits to Arcachon and the Dune du Pilat area. VFR arrivals and departures are straightforward when following the published VAC procedures, with special attention required for entry via NE and N, and proximity to Cazaux military airspace and restricted areas. Communication is available in English during ATC/AFIS hours, with controllers described as friendly and helpful. Circuit procedures are enforced due to military activity and parachuting; expect possible altitude restrictions (max 950 ft) and coordinate closely with ATC, especially when parachute operations are active.

Parking is available on both grass and hard surfaces, with grass parking less expensive. Example: landing plus three nights parking about €70; parking on hard surfaces costs about 1 Euro per hour more than grass. Fuel availability varies: Avgas and Jet A1 are generally present, but temporary restrictions may limit fuel to home-based aircraft. Payment at the Air Total automat is possible by Air Total card or by borrowing a card from the tower and settling by credit/debit card or cash.

Ground transport options include local taxis (numbers posted in the terminal), Uber, private chauffeur services, car hire (including classic 2CVs or electric Mehari vehicles at special rates for pilots), and bicycle rental. Taxis can be difficult to obtain without advance booking, especially during busy periods; fares to Arcachon range from about €20 to €50 depending on service type. The airport is 5–6 km from Arcachon; walking takes 45–60 minutes. The train from Arcachon to Bordeaux takes about 50 minutes.

Facilities include a large concrete runway, grass parking areas, and helpful tower staff. No on-field restaurant is reported; hotels are available in Arcachon or near the beach. The area offers beaches, nature reserves, and sightseeing opportunities such as flights over the Dune du Pilat (minimum 1000 ft). Procedures vary; see AIP/NOTAM.

Overall, LFCH offers a scenic location with reliable ATC support, but pilots should prepare for complex airspace procedures and plan ground transport in advance due to limited taxi availability.