Bucharest, Romania's capital city, is served by two main airports: Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP) and Aurel Vlaicu Bucharest-Băneasa International Airport (BBU). Henri Coandă International is the busiest airport in Romania and acts as the main hub for the national carrier TAROM. It handles the majority of international and long-haul flights, offering the most extensive connections including many low-budget flights. In contrast, Băneasa Airport mainly serves charter carriers and low-cost carriers, catering to a smaller passenger base. It is closer to the city center, providing quick access for travelers prioritizing convenience over volume of connections.
The two airports collectively cover a broad range of traveler needs, from international transit to budget travel and quick city access. Henri Coandă is known for its wide transport options, shopping and dining facilities, while Băneasa offers a more limited but convenient alternative mainly for regional and low-cost flights. This landing page will help you compare these airports effectively to choose the best one for your trip to Bucharest.
| Airport | Main role | Flight Connections | Transport to City | Proximity | Shopping & Food | Other Passenger Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP) | Main hub, most international connections, largest airport | Extensive international and domestic flights, including low-cost carriers and national carrier TAROM | Express bus lines 780 and 783, direct train to city center, many taxi services; bus fare ~3.5 Lei, train ticket ~6.8 Lei; travel time 20-60 mins depending on transport | 16 km (10 miles) north of Bucharest city center | Numerous shops including duty-free, Carrefour supermarket, multiple cafes and restaurants with many open 24/7 | Free unlimited Wi-Fi, pharmacy, luggage trolleys, hairdresser, chapel, no luggage storage |
| Băneasa Aurel Vlaicu International Airport (BBU) | Secondary airport, mostly charter flights and low-cost carriers, closer to city center | Primarily regional and low-budget airlines, limited international connections | Taxi and shuttle options as primary transport; closer to city center hence shorter travel time | 8 km (5 miles) north of Bucharest city center | Limited shopping and dining options compared to OTP | Smaller airport, less crowded, good for budget and quick access travel |
Bucharest offers two distinct airport options depending on your travel needs. Henri Coandă International Airport is the best choice if you prioritize extensive flight options, especially for international travel and a wide range of services and facilities. Băneasa Airport, on the other hand, is ideal for travelers looking for a closer airport with a focus on low-cost and charter flights, ensuring quicker access to the city. Choosing the right airport depends on your priorities for convenience, flight availability and budget.
If you are looking for detailed info on the different Bucharest airports, click on the airport profiles below.
