The town of Le Touquet-Paris-Plage in northern France has decided to rename its airport after the late Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away in September 2022. The new name, Elizabeth II International Airport of Le Touquet Paris-Plage, was approved by King Charles III on Monday, August 21, 2023.
Le Touquet-Paris-Plage is a popular destination for British tourists, especially those who enjoy golfing or dining at the town’s upscale restaurants. The airport, which serves mainly private flights, has been a frequent landing spot for the royal family and other VIPs from the UK.
The town hall of Le Touquet-Paris-Plage proposed the name change to Buckingham Palace just six days after the Queen’s death, as a gesture of gratitude and respect for her long reign and close ties with France . The Queen was known for her fondness of France and its culture, and visited the country several times during her 69-year rule. She also spoke fluent French and often used it in her speeches and conversations with French dignitaries.
The new name of the airport is expected to boost the tourism and economy of the town, as well as strengthen the friendship between France and the UK. The inauguration date for the new name has not been announced yet, but it is likely to be a grand ceremony attended by high-ranking officials from both countries .
The name change is a rare and remarkable honor for a foreign monarch, and reflects the admiration and affection that the French people have for the Queen. It is also a testament to the enduring legacy of Elizabeth II, who was not only the longest-serving British monarch, but also a global icon of dignity, duty, and diplomacy.
