An Overview of the Terminal at New Istanbul Airport
The expansive terminal at Istanbul Airport covers an area of 1,440,000m², making it the largest terminal building in the world under one roof. Elegantly designed, the terminal is divided into Departure and Arrival zones. For those arriving by car, Turquoise and Green Parking are recommended for domestic flights, while Yellow, Red, and Blue Parking areas are ideal for international flights.
Passengers enter the Departure level through seven doors. Generally, doors 1 and 2 serve domestic flights, while the remaining doors are more convenient for international check-in counters. Domestic travelers should proceed to check-in counters D and E (self-service check-in) and then move to the passport control area near aisle D. International travelers should head to aisles E (self-service check-in), F, G, H, and J, with the relevant passport control area located opposite these aisles. Entrance 5 is dedicated to business-class passengers and Miles & More members boarding international flights.
Specific check-in counters cater to special passenger categories. Large traveling groups and individuals with special needs are served at aisle G, families at aisle K, and travelers from the US, UK, and Canada at check-in counter K. Star Alliance Gold members and Turkish Airlines business-class passengers should use aisle L.
The terminal has five piers: A, B, D, and F for international boarding gates, while pier G and three boarding areas of pier F serve domestic flights. Although currently there is only one terminal building, by 2025, the airport will have four interconnected terminals.
The Outstanding New Istanbul Airport Terminal
The new terminal is an architectural marvel, blending contemporary design with national history and culture. Its massive size is immediately striking, complemented by high ceilings, large windows, and skylights that create a lively atmosphere. The terminal’s important zones, such as check-in areas, are brightly illuminated. The design incorporates Islamic-inspired arches and curves, reminiscent of mosques, and the main hall is designed to evoke the Bosphorus Strait.
The most distinctive feature is the award-winning 90-meter-high air traffic control tower, designed to resemble a tulip, a historic symbol of Istanbul.
The Main Drawback of Istanbul Airport Terminal
Despite its impressive and advanced design, the terminal has a major drawback. There is only one security area for domestic flights and another for international passengers, which, combined with the lack of internal transit systems (shuttle buses or trains), increases the risk of missing flights. The moving walkways are insufficient, making the walking distances between gates and from the central terminal zone to each pier significant and time-consuming.
Passengers are advised to arrive at Istanbul International Airport 2.5-3 hours before their flight to ensure they reach their gate without stress.
FAQs
How many terminals are there in Istanbul Airport?
Currently, IST Airport has only one terminal building. However, in the future, three additional, significantly smaller terminal buildings will be added to complete the airport complex. This expansion aims to enhance the airport’s capacity and efficiency. The new terminals will be interconnected by a railway system for easy access.
Is Istanbul Airport big?
The new Istanbul Airport is considered one of the largest airports in the world. Navigating this impressively large airport complex can be tiring and stressful, especially when trying to catch a flight. The terminal covers a vast area with extensive walking distances between gates. Passengers are advised to arrive early to ensure they have ample time to reach their departure gates.