Protesters oppose A69 highway opening

Protesters are demonstrating against the opening of the A69 highway, which connects Castres to Toulouse. The highway, declared to be of public interest in July 2018, was originally set to open on October 15, 2026, but the ribbon-cutting ceremony has been postponed to the first week of November without a specific date.

Environmental and airport concerns raised

The A69 highway has sparked significant controversy, with opposition from local residents due to its environmental impact. Concerns have also been raised about the future of the Castres airport, which is seen as a key local infrastructure.

Castres airport faces uncertain future

A Castres airport employee expressed worries that the public service delegation (DSP) for the Castres-Paris line, operated by Chalair, might be canceled. This could lead to the airport's closure. The airport, built in 1990, has not seen major strategic or commercial development despite being a key local asset.

Airport passenger numbers remain low

In 2025, the Castres airport recorded 30,259 passengers, a 6.6% increase from the previous year. However, this growth was only due to its single commercial flight to Paris Orly. The airport also serves aero clubs, private jets, and a parachute regiment.

Highway favored over airport by government

The government has prioritized the A69 highway over the airport, which faces financial challenges. The state subsidizes each airplane ticket on the Castres-Paris line by 185 euros. Without this line, residents would need to travel to Bordeaux or Toulouse, with the latter option being more expensive and time-consuming.

Castres-Paris line faces uncertain future

The operator of the Castres-Paris line, Chalair, is unsure about the service's future. Alain Battisti, the company's boss, expressed confusion just 15 days before the subsidy ends. Local groups, officials, and the Pierre Fabre group oppose the highway, emphasizing the airport's economic and symbolic importance.

Government extends subsidy for Castres-Paris line

The government has extended the state subsidy for the Castres-Paris line until December 31, 2026. However, without continued support from Paris, the service will operate less frequently starting in January 2027, with the number of flights decreasing over time.

French airports face financial and structural challenges

French airports are struggling with an over-saturated network and reliance on local authorities for funding. The regional chamber of accounts of Occitanie questioned the value of the public service obligation for the Castres-Paris line, warning about rising public financial costs with each renewal. Despite these concerns, there has been little progress in implementing solutions.