Chronicle of Paris-Orly Airport: An Overview
Paris Orly Airport, located in the southern suburbs of Paris, France, has a rich history dating back to 1932. Originally known as Villeneuve-Orly Airport, it was opened as a secondary airport to Le Bourget, serving the southern suburbs of the city.
The airport's ICAO and IATA codes, "LFPO" and "ORY" respectively, have remained consistent throughout its evolution, representing Paris Orly Airport in aviation systems.
Built in 1909 as an airfield for military purposes, Orly Airport played a significant role in the development of aviation in France. During World War II, the airport was occupied by German forces, and much of its infrastructure was destroyed. However, by the 1950s, Orly had become one of the busiest airports in Europe.
The post-war layout of Orly Airport, around 1947, featured two key runways, a 6,140-foot (1,870 m) runway originally numbered 27/207 (later changed to 03R), and a 5,170-foot (1,580 m) runway numbered 81/261 (later 08L) crossing the first at its north end. By 1953, Orly had four concrete runways, each 197 feet (60 m) wide. These runways were designated as 03L, 03R, 08L, and 08R, with lengths varying from 2,400 meters to 3,650 meters.
Today, Orly Airport continues to serve as a major airport for Paris with modernized runways and terminals. The runways are equipped with state-of-the-art navigation and lighting systems, allowing for safe and efficient takeoffs and landings in almost all weather conditions.
Paris Orly Airport has been a hub for several major airlines, including Air France, and has undergone renovations and upgrades, such as the construction of a new terminal in 2019. Despite these changes, the airport's runways remain designed to facilitate safe and efficient air traffic operations, handling both domestic and international flights.
Orly Airport's runways include Runway 06/24, which is 3,650 meters long and 45 meters wide, Runway 02/20, which is 2,400 meters long, and Runway 07/25, which is 3,320 meters long, making it the longest runway among the three.
Paris Orly Airport continues to be an important gateway to Paris and France, serving millions of passengers each year. Its history, from its military beginnings to its current status as a bustling international hub, is a testament to the growth and evolution of aviation in France.
Travelers jetting off from Paris Orly Airport can now enjoy a modernized lifestyle with state-of-the-art facilities, as the airport's runways have been upgraded to cater to the growing demands of air traffic, offering efficient travel experiences. Paris Orly Airport's rich history, dating back to its military beginnings in the early 20th century and its evolving role in the development of aviation, makes it an essential gateway for international travelers.
