Istanbul Airport Takes Off: The World’s Largest Aviation Hub

 

Istanbul Airport, the new aviation marvel of the Turkish Government, has officially taken off. Joining Ataturk Airport and Sabiha Gokcen International Airport, this new hub assumed all passenger flights from Ataturk Airport on October 29, 2018. It’s anticipated to host over 200 million passengers by 2025.

 

Located in the Çatalca-Göktürk-Arnavutköy area on the European side of the city, 40 km from Taksim and 52 km from Kadıköy, Istanbul Airport is strategically positioned between Tayakadin and Akpinar villages. It connects over 350 domestic and international destinations across 110 countries, boasting one of the largest duty-free areas worldwide.

 

Currently, one terminal and four of the planned six runways are operational, along with five concourses serving numerous airlines. The airport offers cutting-edge services and facilities, embodying environmentally friendly design and advanced technology.

 

Since becoming fully functional on April 6, 2019, Istanbul Airport has emerged as a major transportation hub, linking Europe, Asia, and Africa, with plans for further development as a significant global aviation center.

 

Istanbul Airport’s Layout: A Masterpiece Under One Roof

 

Currently, Istanbul International Airport boasts a single terminal building, the largest of its kind under one roof worldwide. This architectural marvel is divided into two main areas: Departures and Arrivals. It features five piers—Piers A, B, D, and F handle international flights, while Pier G and part of Pier F cater to domestic destinations. Upon full completion, the airport will include four terminal buildings.

 

Despite its grandeur, the terminal’s vast size presents a challenge: there is only one security checkpoint for domestic flights and another for international destinations. This can make airport procedures lengthy and navigating the large terminal to reach boarding areas time-consuming. Nonetheless, Istanbul Airport remains a remarkable achievement in aviation design and functionality.

 

IST Airlines

The new and impressive Istanbul International Airport serves flights to and from over 350 destinations. It boasts strong connections to numerous cities in Turkey as well as to international and intercontinental destinations. Consequently, the airport is home to a wide array of airlines, ranging from local and low-cost carriers to international and conventional providers.

As the hub for Turkey’s flag carrier, Istanbul Airport is the operational base for Turkish Airlines and Turkish Cargo, solidifying its status as a major global gateway.

Parking Facilities

Istanbul International Airport offers extensive parking facilities spread over five blocks, ensuring that all passengers’ parking needs are fully accommodated. With a total of 40,000 parking spots, the airport provides ample space for both short-term and long-term parking. The Green Car Park, Yellow Car Park, Blue Car Park, Red Car Park, and Turquoise Car Park are conveniently located within the airport premises, close to the terminal building, making it easy and convenient for travelers to park their vehicles.

Transit Options

Passengers at Istanbul International Airport have a variety of transit options to reach their final destinations. Travelers heading to the city center from IST Airport can choose from the following:

 

Services and Amenities

The brand-new Istanbul Airport is a modern aviation hub, providing its passengers with all the anticipated services and amenities. Here are some of the main services available at IST Airport:

  • Retail Stores and Duty-Free Area: A wide array of shopping options.
  • Restaurants and Bars: Diverse dining choices for all tastes.
  • Baggage Wrapping and Luggage Storage: Secure your belongings with ease.
  • Pharmacies and Medical Services: Health and wellness facilities.
  • Banks, ATMs, and Currency Exchange Areas: Financial services for all needs.
  • Family Services and Playground: Ensuring comfort for families and children.
  • Lost & Found Offices: Assistance with misplaced items.
  • Prayer Rooms: Spaces for spiritual needs.
  • Art Galleries: Cultural exhibits to enjoy.
  • Business Center: Workspaces for business travelers.
  • Lounges and Spa Facilities: Relaxation and luxury services.
  • Airport Hotel: Convenient accommodation options.
  • Pet Rooms and Pet Relief Areas: Services for travelers with pets.
  • Wi-Fi: Stay connected with free internet access.
  • Travel Agencies and Tour Operators: Assistance with travel planning.
  • Information Kiosks: Help and guidance for all airport services.
  • Special Services and Amenities for Passengers with Disabilities: Ensuring accessibility for all travelers.

Contact Info

Official Name: Istanbul Airport

Address: Tayakadın Mahallesi, Terminal Caddesi No:1, 34283 Arnavutköy/İstanbul

Phone Number: 444 1 442

Email: ist@igairport.aero

The City of Istanbul

Istanbul is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends the East and the West, standing at the crossroads of Europe and Asia. The city’s Byzantine and Ottoman legacy is visible everywhere, creating a unique and captivating atmosphere. Iconic attractions such as Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, the Topkapi Palace, and the Galata Tower often leave visitors in awe.

Istanbul is also a shopper’s paradise, embracing a “shop till you drop” mentality. Beyond numerous retail stores, the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar introduce travelers to the rich traditions of the eastern market.

The city is beautifully framed by the Bosphorus, making Bosphorus cruises one of Istanbul’s top experiences. Amidst its traditional charm, Istanbul is a modern metropolis with a vibrant nightlife and a diverse gastronomic scene, offering a fusion of flavors from around the world.

 

 

FAQs

 

Has the new Istanbul Airport opened?

Istanbul Airport was officially inaugurated on October 29, 2018, coinciding with the 95th anniversary of the proclamation of the Turkish Republic. The first flight took off on October 31, 2018, and by April 6, 2019, all passenger flights from Istanbul Ataturk Airport were transferred to the new airport.

Despite not yet reaching its full capacity, Istanbul Airport is already fully operational, marking a new era in aviation and setting a high standard for airports worldwide.

Is Istanbul Ataturk Airport closing?

Istanbul Ataturk Airport has officially ceased operations for passenger flights, which are now handled by the new Istanbul Airport. The new airport, often referred to as the successor to Ataturk International Airport, has inherited Ataturk Airport Istanbul’s IATA Code (IST). Despite this major transition, Ataturk Airport continues to function, though it now focuses on cargo, general aviation, and maintenance services. This shift marks a significant milestone in the aviation landscape of Istanbul, enhancing passenger experiences while ensuring that critical aviation operations remain uninterrupted at Airport Istanbul Ataturk.

 

Which is the main airport in Istanbul?

The brand-new Istanbul Airport (IST, IGA) has become the main airport in the city. Located on the European side of Istanbul, in the Arnavutköy area, Istanbul Airport has taken over all passenger flights from Ataturk Airport. The former Ataturk Airport Istanbul now serves only cargo and general aviation services. Meanwhile, the second, “minor” airport of the city, Sabiha Gökçen International Airport, is located on the Asian side. Despite the closure of passenger services at Ataturk Istanbul, the airport continues to play an essential role in Istanbul’s aviation industry, ensuring the smooth operation of Ataturk International Airport for non-passenger related activities.

 

What are the transportation options from Istanbul Airport?

The new Istanbul Airport boasts an efficient transportation network that currently includes buses with fares ranging from 15.33​₺ to 204₺ to and from the city center, alongside taxis operating 24/7. Istanbul Taxis typically reach the city center in about 50 minutes, charging an average fare of 1050₺. Additionally, Istanbul Airport is served by Metro Line M11, and plans are underway for a high-speed train connecting it to Sabiha Gökçen Airport.

 

How many terminals does Istanbul Airport have?

 

Currently, Istanbul Airport operates with one main terminal. However, there are plans for three additional terminals in the long term, which are expected to be smaller in size compared to the existing main terminal.

 

Is Istanbul new airport the biggest in the world?

 

The new Istanbul Airport has been operational for over a year and has already served more than 40 million passengers. By its final phase, expected around 2025, the airport is projected to handle up to 200 million passengers annually, making it the largest airport in the world in terms of passenger traffic.