Charles de Gaulle Airport opened its doors in 1974, receiving its name as a tribute to the famous French statesman, and replacing the old airport, known as Paris North Airport (Aéroport de Paris Nord). Today, it lies approximately 25km/15.5 miles north of Paris city center.

The primary international airport in Paris is called CDG as an abbreviation for Charles de Gaulle, named in honor of the legendary French general and President. Charles de Gaulle led the Free French Forces during World War II and served as the primary architect of the French Fifth Republic. The airport, located in the Roissy-en-France area, was originally known as "Paris Nord" during its planning and construction phases in the 1960s. However, shortly before its official opening in March 1974, it was renamed to commemorate De Gaulle, who had passed away in 1970. The IATA code CDG was assigned to match the new name, replacing the temporary "Roissy" designation in official aviation records. Today, in 2026, the airport is one of the busiest in the world and remains an architectural icon, particularly Terminal 1 with its "camembert" shape and futuristic glass tubes. While locals often still refer to it simply as "Roissy" due to its location, the global aviation community and travelers recognize it solely by the initials of the man who defined modern French history.