Nantes Atlantique Airport (NTE) is the main airport for western France, serving as a gateway to the Loire Valley, Brittany, and the Atlantic coast. Handling around 7 million passengers per year, it operates from a single terminal with a straightforward layout. Smokers should plan to use the outdoor areas outside the terminal entrance before clearing security, as there are no airside smoking zones.
Smoking Policy at Nantes Atlantique Airport
France has banned indoor smoking in all public places since 2008, and Nantes Atlantique follows this rule strictly. There are no indoor smoking rooms or enclosed smoking cabins anywhere in the airport. Smoking is only permitted in the designated outdoor areas outside the terminal building.
Airport Layout
Nantes Atlantique has a single terminal with one main entrance for departures on the upper level and arrivals on the ground floor. The terminal is compact and easy to navigate, with check-in, security, and gates all in one building. A new terminal has been discussed for years but the existing facility continues to serve all traffic.
Smoking Areas
The outdoor smoking areas at Nantes are located outside the terminal entrance on the departures level. Look for ashtrays and designated standing areas near the doors. The areas are uncovered, so you will be exposed to weather.
Before security: Outdoor areas outside the main terminal entrance on the departures level.
After security: There are no smoking areas after security at Nantes Atlantique. Once you clear security, you cannot access a smoking zone without exiting the secure area entirely.
E-Cigarettes and Vaping
France treats e-cigarettes and vaping devices the same as traditional cigarettes. You cannot vape inside the terminal, in shops, or in restaurants. All vaping must be done in the designated outdoor smoking areas outside the entrance.
Tips for Smokers at Nantes Atlantique Airport
- Smoke before entering the terminal as there are no post-security smoking areas
- The departures level entrance has the main outdoor smoking zone with ashtrays
- Nantes has a mild Atlantic climate, but rain is frequent so bring a jacket
- Security lines are generally manageable, but allow extra time during summer holiday peaks
- Buy cigarettes in the city before arriving as airside duty free selection is limited for domestic flights
- If you have a long wait before boarding, factor in time to exit and re-enter security
Summary
| Area | Smoking Allowed | Location Details |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal entrance (departures level) | Outdoor only | Near doors with ashtrays |
| Inside terminal | No | Indoor smoking banned |
| After security | No | No airside smoking areas |
| Arrivals level | Outdoor only | Outside ground floor entrance |
Useful Links
- Nantes Atlantique Airport Official Website {target="_blank" rel=“noopener”}