Following an extensive closure spanning nearly three years, Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport's iconic Terminal 1 welcomes travelers once again, debuting a transformative upgrade valued at over €250 million.
Originally inaugurated in 1974 and designed by the visionary French architect Paul Andreu, this architectural marvel stands as a testament to innovative airport design. The terminal’s celebrated circular core, surrounded by seven satellite concourses, revolutionized passenger flow and remains a symbol of French modernism.
In 2025, Terminal 1 emerges refreshed and expanded, seamlessly blending heritage with future-ready enhancements. The addition of a 36,000-square-meter connector—featuring a state-of-the-art 5,600-square-meter boarding hall—now integrates satellites 1, 2, and 3 directly to the central hub, streamlining navigation for international and premium travelers alike.
Inside, travelers experience cutting-edge amenities: 124 versatile airline check-in counters, 130 intuitive self-service kiosks, and 90 automated baggage drop points. The luminous interior features elegant marble flooring, dynamic digital displays, energy-efficient LED lighting, and reimagined border controls designed for swift and secure passage.
The international departures area now boasts a singular, intuitive entrance, with all boarding routes equipped with automated e-gates. A newly curated departures lounge evokes the timeless charm of Paris, with bistro-inspired brass accents and dazzling lighting reminiscent of Parisian celebrations. Seating options cater to both relaxation and productivity, offering sculpted benches, generous lounging spaces, and private workstations with ergonomic tables and privacy screens. The terminal’s cultural vibrancy is further elevated through rotating art exhibitions, each running for two to three years, showcasing both classic and contemporary works.
Leading global carriers have already resumed operations in the revitalized Terminal 1, including Lufthansa, SWISS, SAS, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and Etihad Airways, with more than 50 major airlines anticipated to operate from this hub by late 2025.
The reopening of Terminal 1 signals a definitive return to seamless international travel at Paris-Charles de Gaulle, positioning the airport at the forefront of global luxury aviation. This milestone aligns with France’s ongoing emergence as a premier destination for world-class events and cultural experiences, following the successful hosting of the 2024 Olympic Games and a robust rebound in luxury tourism.
Discover our expert review of the Business Class Lounge at Paris-Charles de Gaulle
