Roland Garros - A Tribute to an Aviation Pioneer

A bit of history behind the name of Saint-Denis Airport

The name of Saint-Denis Airport, Roland Garros, pays tribute to one of the greatest pioneers of aviation. Born in Saint-Denis, La Réunion, on October 6, 1888, Roland Garros was the first to successfully complete the aerial crossing of the Mediterranean Sea in September 1913.

Saint-Denis bears several tributes to this local hero, who died in an air combat in 1918 during the First World War. You can admire a statue of Roland Garros at Le Barachois, one of the city’s most emblematic spots, and stroll along the street that also bears his name. To complete this experience, you can enjoy a meal at the Roland Garros restaurant, also located in Le Barachois.

The name “Roland Garros” was officially given to the airfield by decree on June 14, 2011.