Charles De Gaulle Airport
Charles De Gaulle Airport is the largest and busiest airport in France, located in the municipality of Roissy-en-France, 23 kilometers northeast of Paris. It was named after Charles de Gaulle, the French general and statesman who led the Free French Forces during World War II and later became the President of France.
History of Charles De Gaulle Airport
The idea of building a new airport to serve Paris was first proposed in the 1950s, as the existing airports were unable to cope with the increasing air traffic. Construction of Charles De Gaulle Airport began in 1966, and the airport was officially opened in 1974, replacing Paris Orly Airport as the main airport of Paris.
Importance of Charles De Gaulle Airport
Charles De Gaulle Airport is not only the largest airport in France but also the second-busiest airport in Europe after London Heathrow. It serves as a hub for Air France, the national carrier of France, and other major airlines, connecting Paris to over 300 destinations worldwide.
Why the airport needs an alternate name?
While the name Charles De Gaulle Airport is recognized worldwide, it can be a mouthful for some travelers, especially those who are not familiar with French pronunciation. Moreover, the name may not be easy to remember or spell, which can cause confusion and inconvenience.
What is the alternate name for Charles De Gaulle Airport?
The alternate name for Charles De Gaulle Airport is Roissy Airport. Roissy is the name of the municipality where the airport is located, and it was the airport’s original name when it first opened in 1974.
Who named the airport as Roissy Airport?
The airport was named Roissy Airport by the French government, as it was located in the municipality of Roissy-en-France. The name was later changed to Charles De Gaulle Airport in honor of the former French president.
When was the airport renamed as Charles De Gaulle Airport?
The airport was officially renamed as Charles De Gaulle Airport in 1994, on the 24th anniversary of his death. The renaming was done to pay tribute to the former president’s contributions to France and the world.
How is the airport referred to in French?
In French, Charles De Gaulle Airport is known as Aéroport Paris-Charles-de-Gaulle, or simply Roissy.
What is the significance of the alternate name?
The alternate name, Roissy Airport, is significant because it reflects the airport’s location and history. It is also shorter and easier to remember than the official name, which can be beneficial for travelers who need to refer to the airport frequently.
The impact of alternate name on tourism
Having an alternate name for a major airport like Charles De Gaulle can have a positive impact on tourism, as it can make the airport more accessible and recognizable to travelers from different countries. It can also enhance the airport’s brand and reputation, which can attract more airlines and passengers.
Conclusion: The importance of alternate names
Alternate names for airports, cities, and landmarks can be helpful for travelers and locals alike. They can make it easier to navigate and communicate, and they can also reflect the cultural and historical significance of the place. As such, it is essential to consider alternate names when naming and branding major destinations.
References: Sources for alternate name research
- "Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport." Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 6 Aug. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paris_Charles_de_Gaulle_Airport.
- "Roissy-en-France." Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 6 Aug. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roissy-en-France.
- "Why Do Airports Have Such Complicated Names?" BBC News, 27 Feb. 2017, www.bbc.com/news/business-39044982.