list of airports in Turkey

Exploring Turkey’s Airports: A Comprehensive Guide for Travelers

Turkey, a captivating bridge between Europe and Asia, boasts a robust network of airports serving both domestic and international travelers. From bustling hubs in major cities to smaller airfields connecting remote regions, understanding Turkey’s airport landscape is crucial for planning a smooth and efficient trip. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the airports in Turkey, helping you navigate your journey with ease.

Major International Airports in Turkey

Turkey’s international airports are the gateways to this diverse and historically rich nation. They offer extensive flight connections, modern facilities, and a range of services to cater to global travelers.

• Istanbul Airport (IST): By far the largest and busiest airport in Turkey, Istanbul Airport is a major global aviation hub. Opened in 2018, it replaced Atatürk Airport as the primary international gateway. It handles flights to hundreds of destinations worldwide and is known for its impressive size and modern amenities.
• Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW): Located on the Asian side of Istanbul, Sabiha Gökçen is a significant airport serving both international and domestic routes. It’s a popular choice for budget airlines and offers a convenient alternative to Istanbul Airport, particularly for those staying in the Asian part of the city.
• Antalya Airport (AYT): A key destination for tourists heading to the Turkish Riviera, Antalya Airport is the second busiest in Turkey. It primarily serves leisure travelers with numerous charter and scheduled flights from across Europe and Russia.
• Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB) – Izmir: Serving the Aegean city of Izmir, this airport is a vital link for tourism and business travel to the region. It offers a good selection of international and domestic connections.
• Milas-Bodrum Airport (BJV): Located near the popular resort town of Bodrum, this airport is heavily utilized during the summer months by tourists visiting the Aegean coast.

Key Domestic Airports in Turkey

Beyond the international hubs, Turkey has a network of domestic airports that connect its various provinces and facilitate internal travel.

• Ankara Esenboğa Airport (ESB): Serving the capital city, Ankara, this airport is a crucial hub for business and government travel. It also offers connections to various domestic destinations.
• Trabzon Airport (TZX): Located in the Black Sea region, Trabzon Airport is experiencing increased traffic due to the growing popularity of the area for tourism, particularly from the Gulf countries.
• Dalaman Airport (DLM): Serving the popular resort areas of Dalaman, Fethiye, and Oludeniz, this airport is a key entry point for visitors to the southwestern Turkish coast.
• Muğla Airport (MLA): Another airport serving the Muğla province, offering access to popular destinations like Marmaris and Datça.
• Konya Airport (KONY): Serving the historical city of Konya, this airport is important for religious tourism and regional connectivity.

A Complete List of Airports in Turkey

Here’s a table listing the major and regional airports in Turkey, including their IATA and ICAO codes:

Note: This list is not exhaustive and may be subject to change.

Navigating Turkish Airports: Tips for Travelers

• Currency Exchange: Currency exchange facilities are readily available at all major airports, but rates may not be the most favorable. Consider using an ATM or exchanging currency in the city.
• Transportation: Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gökçen are well-connected to the city center via metro, buses, and taxis. Other airports typically offer car rentals and taxi services.
• Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is generally available at Turkish airports, but the quality and speed can vary.
• Duty-Free Shopping: Turkish airports offer a wide range of duty-free shopping options, including souvenirs, Turkish delight, and alcoholic beverages.
• Security: Be prepared for thorough security checks at all Turkish airports.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Which is the largest airport in Turkey?
Istanbul Airport (IST) is the largest and busiest airport in Turkey.

2. Is there a domestic airport in Cappadocia?
Yes, Kayseri Erkilet Airport (ASR) and Nevşehir Kapadokya Airport (NAV) both serve the Cappadocia region.

3. What is the best way to get from Istanbul Airport to the city center?
The Havaist airport shuttle and the M11 metro line are both convenient and affordable options. Taxis are also available but more expensive.

4. Do I need a transit visa if I connect through a Turkish airport?
Whether you need a transit visa depends on your nationality and the length of your layover. Check the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for the latest requirements.

5. Are there many ATMs at Turkish airports?
Yes, ATMs are widely available at all major Turkish airports.

Resources

• Turkish Airports: https://www.dhmi.gov.tr/en/ (Official website of the State Airports Authority of Turkey)
• Istanbul Airport: https://www.istairport.com/en
• Sabiha Gökçen Airport: https://www.sgairport.com/en/
• Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Visa Information): https://www.mfa.gov.tr/visa-information.html
• Havaist Airport Shuttle (Istanbul): https://www.havaist.com/en/

Enjoy your travels to and within Turkey!