Getting There & Away: Fort De France

Air Travel

Major Airport & Airlines

Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport (FDF) is the main airport. It lies near Lamentin, approximately 6-9 miles (10-15 km) south of Fort-de-France. This airport handles international and regional flights.

Airlines from Major Hubs

North America: Air Canada (Montreal, Toronto), American Airlines (Miami), JetBlue (New York).
Europe: Air France, Corsair, Air Caraïbes (from Paris).
Caribbean: Air Antilles Express, Liat, Winair (to neighboring islands).

Seasonal Flights & Airport Services

Flight prices remain higher during Martinique's high season (December to April) and around major holidays. More direct flights might appear during these periods.

Airport Facilities

Duty-free shops, car rental agencies, ATMs, currency exchange.
Restaurants and cafes offering local and international cuisine.
Information desks for tourist information and assistance. Free Wi-Fi across the terminal.

Taxi Transfers

Taxis are readily available outside the terminal. Fixed rates apply for destinations like Fort-de-France center.

Car Rental

Renting a car is a popular option for island exploration. Pick up your reserved vehicle from airport desks.

Public Bus TCSP

The rapid transit bus line connects the airport to Fort-de-France. This is the most economical transfer option.

Land Transportation

Bus Network & Roads

A public bus network connects towns and villages from Fort-de-France.
Main bus terminal in Fort-de-France is Pointe Simon. Services less frequent on weekends.
Roads are generally well-maintained, but some are narrow, winding, and steep.
Traffic in and around Fort-de-France can be heavy during peak hours.

Self-Driving & Safety

A valid national driver's license. If not in French, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is necessary.
Drive carefully, especially on winding roads. Watch for pedestrians, scooters, and animals.
Road signs follow European standards. Driving is on the right-hand side.
Be mindful of aggressive drivers during rush hour.

Sea & River Arrivals

Ferry Services

Fort-de-France is a central point for inter-island ferry services. Connects to Guadeloupe, Dominica, St. Lucia. Ferry terminal near Pointe Simon.

Cruise Ports

A popular port of call for cruise ships. Docking at Pointe Simon or Tourelles quay. Easy access to city attractions.

Immigration Procedures

Standard immigration checks for international arrivals. Present passport and visa documents upon disembarkation.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Airport Arrival

No specific exit fees or taxes are typically on passengers departing from Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport (FDF). These charges are generally included in your airfare.

Departure Procedures

Arrive at FDF at least 2-3 hours before international flight's scheduled departure.
This allows sufficient time for check-in, baggage drop-off, security screening, and passport control.
During peak tourist season or on busy travel days, allow extra time for longer queues.

Airport Facilities for Departing Travelers

FDF has several facilities for departing travelers, including duty-free shops where local products (rum, spices) and international goods appear.

Amenities

Duty-free shops for purchases.
Restaurants and cafes for meals or snacks.
Lounges are available for pre-flight relaxation, subject to airline or credit card program access.

VAT Refunds

If you plan to claim VAT refunds on purchases, factor in additional time for this process before heading to security.

VAT Refund Process Notes

Complete the necessary paperwork with retailers for eligible purchases.
Present your purchases and paperwork at the customs office before check-in.
This process requires extra time at the airport.

Security & Immigration

After check-in, proceed through security screening. If you are departing to a non-Schengen country, you will also pass through passport control.

Security Steps

Prepare for standard airport security procedures.
Have your passport ready for passport control for non-Schengen flights.
Free Wi-Fi access in the terminal keeps you connected.

Travel Tip

Confirm fare with taxi driver before journey.
Always book flights several months in advance for competitive fares, especially during peak times.
Keep physical and digital copies of important documents separate from originals.

Remember night rates for taxis are higher (typically 8 PM - 6 AM).
Monitor official weather alerts if traveling during hurricane season.
Obtain an International Driving Permit if your national license is not in French.

Money-Saving Tip: Air Travel

Booking Smart

Booking flights several months in advance, especially for peak times, is a good strategy to secure competitive fares.

Strategic Booking

Book during shoulder season (May, June, November) for a balance of good weather and lower costs.
Low season (July-October) usually presents the lowest prices.
Consider visiting in early December or late April for good weather without peak holiday crowds and costs.

Flexibility & Awareness

Being flexible with your travel dates can open up more affordable flight options, especially outside of weekends and major holidays.

Maximize Savings

Use flight comparison websites to monitor price changes and find the best deals.
Set up price alerts for your desired route to get notifications when fares drop.
Consider flying on weekdays instead of weekends for potentially lower fares.

Airport Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi access in the terminal keeps you connected before departure.

Information Desks

Available for tourist information and assistance.

ATMs & Currency

ATMs and currency exchange facilities for obtaining Euros upon arrival.

Departure Checklist

Pre-Airport Check

Confirm your flight status and check-in online if your airline permits. This saves time at the airport.

Before Heading Out

Passport and any necessary visa documents are present and valid.
Boarding pass (mobile or printed) is accessible.
Any prescription medications are in original containers.

Airport Procedures

Allow ample time for airport procedures, especially during peak travel times. This helps avoid rushing and stress.

At the Airport

Baggage weight and size restrictions are within airline limits.
Proceed through security screening and passport control (if applicable).
Complete any VAT refund processes if applicable.

Connections to Land Transportation

From Ferry Terminal

Taxis are outside. Public bus stops are within walking distance.

From Cruise Terminals

Taxis are present. Downtown attractions are within walking distance for easy exploration.

Public Transport Access

Both terminals offer access to bus routes connecting to the city center and beyond.

Final Departure Tip

Confirm your airline's baggage policies and restrictions before heading to the airport.

Getting There & Away