Bucharest's historic secondary airport serving the capital.
Opened
1920
Location
Bucharest, Romania
Bucharest Băneasa Aurel Vlaicu International Airport (IATA: BBU, ICAO: LRBS) is a secondary international airport serving the Romanian capital, Bucharest. Named after Aurel Vlaicu, a pioneering Romanian aviation engineer and pilot, the airport has roots dating back to the early 20th century, making it one of the oldest operational airports in Romania.
For much of the 2000s, Băneasa served as the primary hub for low-cost carriers and charter flights, relieving congestion at Henri Coandă International Airport. However, in 2012 scheduled commercial passenger flights were suspended and transferred entirely to Henri Coandă, leaving Băneasa handling general aviation, private jets, charter operations, and some regional traffic. Discussions about reopening the airport to commercial traffic have occurred periodically.
The airport is located approximately 8 kilometers north of Bucharest's city center, making it geographically closer to the city than Henri Coandă. Its proximity and existing infrastructure have kept interest alive in its potential future role in the capital's aviation network.
Terminals
The airport has a single passenger terminal building, currently used primarily for general aviation and private/charter operations.
Getting to & from
The airport is accessible by car and taxi approximately 8 kilometers from central Bucharest, with public bus routes also connecting to the city.
Airlines here
Since 2012, scheduled commercial airline operations have been suspended, with the airport now serving private, charter, and general aviation operators.
Notable facts
- ›Named after Aurel Vlaicu, a Romanian aviation pioneer who made one of Europe's earliest powered flights.
- ›The airport opened around 1920, making it one of Romania's oldest airports.
- ›Scheduled commercial passenger flights were suspended in 2012 and redirected to Henri Coandă International Airport.
- ›Băneasa served as a hub for low-cost carriers including Wizz Air and Blue Air during the 2000s.
- ›The airport sits approximately 8 km north of Bucharest city center, closer than the main Henri Coandă Airport.
This profile is provided for general information only. Details may be inaccurate or outdated — always verify with the airport's official website before acting on them.
