Number and Specifications of Airports in Istanbul: A Comprehensive Air Travel Guide
As one of the most populous and significant cities in the world, Istanbul plays a crucial role in tourism and trade, necessitating advanced and busy airports to accommodate millions of travelers daily. The Number and Specifications of Airports in Istanbul: A Comprehensive Air Travel Guide play a vital role in passenger transportation, each possessing its own distinctive characteristics.
There are three main airports in Istanbul, each catering to different passenger needs. Ataturk Airport, which operated from 1953 to 2019, was one of the busiest airports globally but required a new, modern facility due to increasing demand. Sabiha Gokcen Airport, located on the Asian side of the city, has been operational since 2001 and is recognized as one of the most important domestic and international airports. Additionally, the new Istanbul Airport (IST), inaugurated in 2018, is considered one of the largest and most modern airports worldwide, replacing Ataturk Airport.
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Complete List of Airports in Istanbul
In Number and Specifications of Airports in Istanbul: A Comprehensive Air Travel Guide, Istanbul has three main airports, each playing a unique role in facilitating travelers’ journeys. These airports include Ataturk Airport, the New Istanbul Airport (IST), and Sabiha Gökçen Airport. Each of the airports, with its distinctive features and facilities, offers travelers a different travel experience.
Ataturk Airport in Istanbul
Ataturk Airport, operational from 1953 to 2019, was one of the busiest and most historic airports globally. This airport, with its modern facilities and high capacity, transported millions of passengers to various destinations. With the closure of Ataturk Airport, the bulk of aviation activities transferred to the new Istanbul Airport.
Unique Features of Ataturk Airport
Notable features of Ataturk Airport included large gardens, massage lounges, and luxury brand stores. Additionally, the airport had advanced infrastructure for aircraft technical and maintenance operations.
New Istanbul Airport (IST)
The New Istanbul Airport, opened in 2018, was designed as a replacement for Ataturk Airport. It is considered one of the largest and most modern airports in the world, with five active runways and a passenger capacity of over 200 million by 2028.
Facilities and Services at New Istanbul Airport
The New Istanbul Airport offers high-speed internet, fitness lounges, numerous restaurants and cafes, and international brand shops, providing a comfortable and enjoyable experience for passengers. Additionally, the air traffic control tower, inspired by the tulip flower, symbolizes Turkish culture.
Sabiha Gökçen Airport
Located on Istanbul’s Asian side, Sabiha Gökçen Airport has been operational since 2001 and is recognized as one of the most important domestic and international airports. It is particularly popular for low-cost and budget airlines.
Facilities at Sabiha Gökçen Airport
Facilities at this airport include capsule sleeping areas, numerous restaurants and cafes, car rental booths, and large shops. Moreover, the airport hosts over 20 reputable airlines offering domestic and international flights.
Facilities and Services at Istanbul Airports
In Number and Specifications of Airports in Istanbul: A Comprehensive Air Travel Guide, each airport in Istanbul is equipped with a range of amenities and services to make travelers’ journeys easier and more enjoyable. These amenities include restaurants, cafes, fashion and luxury stores, massage lounges, and relaxing spaces for passengers.
Special Services for Passengers
Istanbul airports also strive to provide flawless experiences for passengers by offering special services like healthcare, business services, and high-speed internet, all delivered by professional and updated teams.
Transport Access to Istanbul Airports
An essential aspect of Number and Specifications of Airports in Istanbul: A Comprehensive Air Travel Guide is the easy accessibility of the airports. Istanbul airports are connected to the city center and other parts of Istanbul by taxi, public buses, metro, and car hire services.
Different Transport Methods
For the New Istanbul Airport, Metro line M11 and Havaist buses are popular transport options that provide direct routes to the city center. At Sabiha Gökçen Airport, Metro lines M4 and various buses offer convenient access.
Travelers’ Opinions about Istanbul Airports
Traveler opinions in Number and Specifications of Airports in Istanbul: A Comprehensive Air Travel Guide indicate that each of Istanbul’s airports has its strengths and weaknesses. Many travelers appreciate the modern facilities and excellent services of the new airports, while others point to issues like high parking fees and congestion.
Positive and Negative Feedback
On the positive side, travelers are satisfied with the large and comfortable space of the new airports, efficient check-in and checkout processes, and the high variety
Active Airlines at Istanbul Airports
In Number and Specifications of Airports in Istanbul: A Comprehensive Air Travel Guide, over 100 active airlines operate in Istanbul’s airports. These airlines, including Lufthansa, Air France, Emirates, KLM, and Qatar, offer diverse flight services to domestic and international destinations.
Iranian Airlines
Additionally, Istanbul airports host Iranian airlines, including Iran Air, Mahan, Iran Airtour, Aseman, Qeshm, Caspian, Taban, and Yazd Airlines, which offer direct flights to Istanbul. These partnerships enhance comfort and flight diversity for Iranian travelers.
Leisure and Entertainment Facilities at Istanbul Airports
In Number and Specifications of Airports in Istanbul: A Comprehensive Air Travel Guide, Istanbul airports provide various leisure and entertainment facilities to offer a pleasant experience for travelers. From luxury brand stores and diverse restaurants to children’s play areas and large airport museums, all are designed to increase traveler comfort and entertainment.
Shops and Restaurants
Istanbul airports have various shops that offer products from international and local brands. Furthermore, restaurants and cafes provide a wide range of local and international cuisines, offering ideal options for dining and relaxation for travelers.\
Highest Security Standards at Istanbul Airports
In Number and Specifications of Airports in Istanbul: A Comprehensive Air Travel Guide, passenger security is a top priority. Istanbul airports provide a safe and secure environment for travel by utilizing advanced technologies and close cooperation with security agencies.
Up-to-date Security Technologies
From advanced security control systems to air police bases and specialized protection teams, all are employed to ensure passengers’ security. Furthermore, Istanbul airports periodically review and update their security measures to maintain the highest level of security.
Essential Tips for Traveling through Istanbul Airports
To have a hassle-free air travel experience in Istanbul airports, observing some key tips is crucial. In Number and Specifications of Airports in Istanbul: A Comprehensive Air Travel Guide, we touch upon some of these tips to make your travel experience the best it can be.
Pre-Travel Planning
Before heading to the airport, make sure you have all the necessary documents like tickets, passports, and visas. Also, it is best to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight to go through the check-in and security inspections calmly.
Time Management at the Airport
In Istanbul airports, long walking paths and high passenger volumes may be time-consuming. It is recommended to optimize your routes using internal airport maps and guide services to make the best use of your time.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How many airports does Istanbul have?
- Istanbul has three main airports: Ataturk Airport (closed in 2019), Sabiha Gökçen Airport, and the New Istanbul Airport.
- What are the features of the New Istanbul Airport?
- The New Istanbul Airport is one of the largest and most modern airports globally, with over 7650 hectares and five active runways, with a passenger capacity of over 200 million by 2028.
- Which airlines operate at the New Istanbul Airport?
- Over 100 airlines, including Lufthansa, Air France, Emirates, KLM, and Qatar, operate at the New Istanbul Airport.
- What facilities does Sabiha Gökçen Airport offer?
- Sabiha Gökçen Airport includes ticket check booths, capsule sleeping spaces, numerous restaurants and cafes, car rental booths, and large shops.
- How can one access the New Istanbul Airport?
- There are various ways to access the New Istanbul Airport: Taxi (45 minutes), Havaist bus (30 minutes), and Metro (30 minutes).
- What role did Ataturk Airport play in Istanbul’s air transport?
- From 1953 to 2019, Ataturk Airport was one of the busiest airports globally and served as the main airport of Istanbul.
- What special services does the New Istanbul Airport offer?
- The New Istanbul Airport offers special services, including free high-speed internet for up to two hours, a large airport museum, children’s playgrounds, massage lounges, and luxury brand shops.
- For which types of flights is Sabiha Gökçen Airport suitable?
- Sabiha Gökçen Airport is more suitable for low-cost domestic and international flights and can be a good alternative to Ataturk Airport.
- How are parking fees at the New Istanbul Airport?
- Parking fees at the New Istanbul Airport are relatively high, and one must consider parking costs in addition to ticket prices.
- What food and beverage options are available at the New Istanbul Airport?
- This airport features several restaurants and cafes with a variety of food and beverage options, offering travelers an extensive selection.
- What are passengers’ opinions about the New Istanbul Airport?
- Passengers appreciate the large and modern space of the New Istanbul Airport but express dissatisfaction with high parking fees and some services.
- How is the New Istanbul Airport connected to public transport?
- The New Istanbul Airport is connected to various parts of the city through metro lines, Havaist buses, and taxis, providing easy access.
- Are there special facilities for business travelers at the New Istanbul Airport?
- Yes, the airport features exclusive lounges, conference halls, and work facilities for business travelers.
- Which Iranian airlines are active at the New Istanbul Airport?
- Iranian airlines such as Iran Air, Mahan Air, Aseman Air, and others operate at the New Istanbul Airport.
- What healthcare facilities are available at the New Istanbul Airport?
- The airport has clean and equipped healthcare services providing travelers with added comfort.
- What parking facilities does Sabiha Gökçen Airport offer?
- Sabiha Gökçen Airport provides both covered and open parking facilities, offered at more affordable fees than the New Istanbul Airport.
- What are the differences between Sabiha Gökçen and the New Istanbul Airport?
- Sabiha Gökçen is better suited for budget flights and the Asian side of the city, while the New Istanbul Airport is designed for high-capacity international and commercial flights.
- Is there a possibility for extended rest at the New Istanbul Airport?
- Yes, this airport offers lounges, massage rooms, and special facilities for travelers who need extended rest.
- If additional information about flights and air travel to Istanbul is needed, how can one contact Iran Charter?
- For more information about flights and air travel to Istanbul, you can contact Iran Charter via phone at 02191091190 or email at info@irancharter.ir.
