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Cognac-Châteaubernard Air Base (BA 709) is a French Air Force installation primarily used for pilot training, home to the École de Pilotage de l'Armée de l'Air (EPAA) where future French military pilots earn their wings. Despite its military designation, it also serves limited civil aviation operations under IATA code CNG. Situated in the Charente department of southwestern France, it sits amid the famous vineyards that produce the world-renowned Cognac brandy.
💡 Local Tip
Plan a visit to one of the historic cognac houses in the town center—Hennessy, Martell, or Rémy Martin offer guided tours and tastings that pair perfectly with any stop at the airfield, and several are within a short drive of the base.
🚖 Getting There
The airport is about 5 km east of central Cognac and is best reached by car via the N141 road. Rental cars are available in Cognac, and taxis serve the base from the town center. For commercial flights, Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport is roughly 120 km to the south and offers the closest international connections.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cognac-Châteaubernard a civilian airport?
A: It is primarily a French Air Force military base (BA 709) used for military pilot training, though it handles some general and business aviation.
Q: Does the airport offer commercial passenger flights?
A: No scheduled commercial passenger services operate here; travelers typically use nearby Bordeaux or La Rochelle airports for commercial flights.
Q: What is the main function of BA 709?
A: BA 709 serves as one of France's primary pilot training schools, training cadets on aircraft such as the PC-21 and other training platforms.
Q: Where is the airport located relative to Cognac town?
A: It is situated in Châteaubernard, immediately adjacent to the town of Cognac in the Charente department of Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
AI-generated content · Generated Jun 30, 2026 · MiniMax-M3