Key Takeaways
• Air France launches nonstop Orlando-Paris flights starting May 21, 2025, operating four times weekly with Airbus A350-900.
• Orlando becomes Air France’s 18th U.S. destination, filling the largest U.S. market gap without direct Paris flights since 2012.
• Travelers must obtain ETIAS for France and ESTA for the U.S. starting 2025; visas required for stays over 90 days.
Air France Returns to Orlando: Nonstop Flights to Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport Begin May 21, 2025
Air France is set to make a major comeback in Central Florida, launching nonstop flights between Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) starting May 21, 2025. This new service, operating four times a week, marks the airline’s return to Orlando after more than a decade away. The move is expected to reshape travel options for both local residents and international visitors, while also boosting economic and cultural ties between the United States 🇺🇸 and France 🇫🇷.
What’s Happening: The Key Details
Who: Air France, one of Europe’s largest airlines
What: Launching nonstop flights between Orlando International Airport and Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport
When: Service begins May 21, 2025
Where: Flights depart from Orlando, Florida and arrive in Paris, France
Why: To meet growing demand for direct transatlantic travel, connect two major tourist destinations, and strengthen business and tourism links
How: Four weekly flights using the modern Airbus A350-900, offering a range of seating options and amenities
This new route is not just another addition to Air France’s global network. It’s a strategic move that responds to strong demand for direct flights between Central Florida and Europe, especially as international travel rebounds after the pandemic. According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, Orlando was the largest U.S. market without direct service to Paris, making this launch especially significant for both leisure and business travelers.
Flight Schedule and Aircraft: What Passengers Can Expect
Travelers will have four opportunities each week to fly nonstop between Orlando and Paris. Here’s how the schedule breaks down:
- Orlando (MCO) to Paris (CDG):
- Departs 11:00 PM (local time)
- Arrives 1:30 PM the next day (local time in Paris)
– Paris (CDG) to Orlando (MCO):
– Departs 5:05 PM (local time)
– Arrives 8:45 PM (local time in Orlando)
Flight Days: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays
Aircraft: Airbus A350-900
– Business Class: 34 lie-flat seats
– Premium Economy: 24 seats
– Economy: 266 seats
– Total Capacity: 324 passengers
The Airbus A350-900 is known for its fuel efficiency, quieter cabins, and advanced air filtration systems, making it a popular choice for long-haul flights. Passengers can expect a comfortable journey, whether they’re traveling for business, vacation, or to visit family.
Why This Route Matters: Strategic and Economic Impact
Connecting Two Global Tourist Hubs
Orlando and Paris are both world-famous for their attractions. Orlando is home to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and the Kennedy Space Center, drawing millions of visitors each year. Paris boasts iconic sites like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Disneyland Paris. Direct flights make it easier for tourists from both sides of the Atlantic to explore these destinations without the hassle of layovers or connecting flights.
Boosting Local Economy and Job Market
The new Air France service is expected to bring significant economic benefits to Central Florida:
- Tourism Growth: Easier access for European travelers is likely to increase visitor numbers, supporting local hotels, restaurants, and attractions.
- Job Creation: More flights mean more jobs at Orlando International Airport and in related sectors like hospitality, transportation, and retail.
- Business Opportunities: Direct flights make it simpler for companies in Florida and Europe to collaborate, attend meetings, and explore new markets.
- Cargo Expansion: The Airbus A350-900 can carry both passengers and freight, helping local businesses export goods to Europe and beyond.
According to the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, international flights like this one play a key role in supporting the region’s economic development. Kevin Thibault, CEO of the Authority, said, “We are excited to welcome Air France back to Orlando, furthering our city’s appeal as an international destination and connecting our region with one of Europe’s most iconic cities.”
Filling a Major Gap in Transatlantic Travel
Before this announcement, Orlando was the largest U.S. city without direct service to Paris. Air France’s return fills a gap that has existed since 2012, when the airline last operated this route. The decision is part of Air France’s broader expansion for Summer 2025, which includes:
- A 4% increase in long-haul capacity compared to Summer 2024
- New routes, such as Paris to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Additional daily flights between Paris-Charles de Gaulle and New York JFK
Orlando now becomes Air France’s 18th U.S. destination and its 25th in North America, strengthening the airline’s presence in the region.
What Does This Mean for Travelers?
More Choices, Better Connections
For Central Florida residents, the new route offers a direct link to Europe’s second-busiest airport, Paris-Charles de Gaulle. From there, travelers can connect to nearly 190 destinations worldwide, thanks to Air France’s extensive network. This makes it easier to reach cities across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia without backtracking through other U.S. hubs.
Competitive Fares and Modern Comfort
Round-trip economy fares for the new route start at around $553–$558 for travel in July and August 2025, based on recent searches. This pricing is competitive with other transatlantic options, especially when factoring in the convenience of nonstop service.
Onboard, passengers can enjoy:
- Business Class: Lie-flat seats, gourmet meals, and priority boarding
- Premium Economy: Extra legroom, wider seats, and upgraded meal service
- Economy: Comfortable seating, personal entertainment screens, and complimentary meals and drinks
The Airbus A350-900’s advanced design means quieter cabins, larger windows, and improved air quality, making long flights more pleasant for everyone.
Year-Round Service
Unlike some airlines that only operate widebody aircraft to Orlando during the busy summer months, Air France’s A350-900 will serve the route all year. This is especially notable because Virgin Atlantic’s A350s do not fly to Orlando in winter, making Air France the only carrier to offer this level of comfort and capacity year-round at Orlando International Airport.
The Bigger Picture: Trends in International Air Travel
Growing Demand for Direct Flights
Airlines are responding to increased demand for direct international flights from cities outside the traditional gateways like New York, Miami, and Los Angeles. Orlando’s international flight capacity has grown by about 13% in 2024 compared to 2019, according to industry data. However, European traffic to Orlando still hasn’t fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels, making this new route especially timely.
Air France’s Expansion Strategy
The Orlando-Paris route is part of Air France’s Summer 2025 schedule, which will see the airline operating up to 900 flights daily to nearly 190 destinations. The airline is betting that both leisure and business travelers will continue to seek out direct, convenient options as international travel rebounds.
Balanced Demand
Air France expects the new route to attract an even split of passengers from both sides of the Atlantic. About half of the travelers are expected to originate in France, with the other half coming from the United States. This balance helps ensure the route’s long-term success and reflects the strong ties between the two countries.
Immigration and Travel: What International Passengers Need to Know
Visa Requirements for U.S. and French Travelers
For U.S. citizens visiting France for tourism or business, stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period do not require a visa, thanks to the Schengen Agreement. However, starting in 2025, U.S. travelers will need to apply for ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) approval before departure. This is not a visa, but an online travel authorization required for entry into the Schengen Area. You can find the official ETIAS application and information on the European Union’s official website.
French citizens traveling to the United States 🇺🇸 for tourism or business can use the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), which allows stays of up to 90 days without a visa. However, travelers must apply for ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before boarding their flight. The official ESTA application can be found on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website.
Important:
– ETIAS and ESTA are not visas; they are travel authorizations required for short visits.
– Travelers planning to work, study, or stay longer than 90 days must apply for the appropriate visa. For U.S. visas, visit the U.S. Department of State’s visa page.
– For French long-stay visas, see the official French visa portal.
Customs and Entry Procedures
Both Orlando International Airport and Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport are equipped with modern customs and immigration facilities. Passengers should be prepared to present:
- A valid passport (with at least six months’ validity recommended)
- Proof of return or onward travel
- ETIAS or ESTA approval, if required
- Any supporting documents for longer stays (such as student or work visas)
Travelers are encouraged to check the latest entry requirements before departure, as rules can change based on health or security concerns.
Real-World Scenarios: How the New Route Helps Different Travelers
Families Visiting Theme Parks
A family from Paris planning a summer vacation to Walt Disney World can now fly nonstop to Orlando, saving hours compared to connecting flights. This means less travel stress, especially with young children, and more time to enjoy the parks.
Business Travelers
A tech executive from Orlando with meetings in Paris can take the overnight flight, arrive refreshed the next afternoon, and be ready for business the following day. The return flight’s evening departure allows for a full day of work in Paris before heading home.
Students and Academic Exchanges
With many universities in both Florida and France, the new route makes it easier for students and faculty to participate in exchange programs, research collaborations, and conferences. Direct flights reduce travel time and simplify logistics for academic institutions.
Cargo and Trade
Local businesses in Central Florida that export goods to Europe can benefit from the expanded cargo capacity on the Airbus A350-900. This helps support international trade and can lead to new business opportunities.
Official Recognition and Community Excitement
A ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for May 21, 2025, to celebrate the launch of the new service. Local officials, business leaders, and tourism representatives are expected to attend, highlighting the importance of the route for the region.
The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority has expressed strong support for Air France’s return, emphasizing the positive impact on the city’s global reputation and economic growth.
Booking and Additional Information
Travelers interested in booking flights on the new Orlando to Paris route can find full details, including schedules, fares, and travel requirements, on the official Air France website.
For up-to-date information on U.S. entry requirements, including ESTA and visa policies, visit the U.S. Department of State’s travel page.
Takeaways and Next Steps
- Air France’s new nonstop service between Orlando International Airport and Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport begins May 21, 2025.
- The route operates four times weekly, using the modern Airbus A350-900.
- The new service is expected to boost tourism, business, and cultural ties between Central Florida and Europe.
- Travelers should check visa and travel authorization requirements before booking.
- For official immigration forms and travel authorizations, use only government websites to ensure you have the latest information.
As international travel continues to recover, direct routes like this one offer more convenience and opportunity for travelers, businesses, and communities on both sides of the Atlantic. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a business trip, or a new adventure, the return of Air France to Orlando opens up a world of possibilities.
Learn Today
Airbus A350-900 → A modern, fuel-efficient long-haul aircraft with advanced comfort and air filtration systems used by Air France.
ETIAS → European Travel Information and Authorization System, an online entry authorization required for U.S. travelers visiting Schengen countries.
ESTA → Electronic System for Travel Authorization, a required online permit for French travelers visiting the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program.
Visa Waiver Program → A U.S. program allowing short-term visa-free travel for certain countries’ citizens for tourism or business stays up to 90 days.
Schengen Area → A zone of 26 European countries allowing passport-free travel among members, including France, under common immigration controls.
This Article in a Nutshell
Air France returns to Orlando on May 21, 2025, with four weekly nonstop flights to Paris-Charles de Gaulle. Using Airbus A350-900, it boosts tourism, business links, and cultural ties between the U.S. and France, creating new opportunities for travelers and local economies. ETIAS and ESTA authorizations apply.
— By VisaVerge.com
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