Istanbul Airport is one of the busiest airports in Europe and the world. It serves millions of passengers annually with its modern facilities, including a single terminal building that is the largest under one roof globally. The terminal offers various amenities such as retail stores, restaurants, lounges, and transit options to the city center.
The average number of commercial flights per day worldwide is approximately 94,825, and around 4,312 flights per month land at Istanbul airport.
When Should I Arrive Istanbul Airport Before My Flight?
Because it is one of the most popular and busiest airports in the world, especially during peak seasons from late May to September, queues can be longer. It is advisable to arrive at the airport 3 or 4 hours before your flight to ensure you don't miss it. You can also check Istanbul Airport's website to monitor real-time waiting times for the Terminal Entrance Checkpoint, Passport Control Waiting Point, and Domestic Control Waiting Point.
Where is Istanbul Airport?
Istanbul Airport is located in the Arnavutköy district on the European side of Istanbul, Turkey. It is situated approximately 35 kilometers north of the city center, making it serves as a crucial transportation hub connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa.
How to Go To Istanbul Airport?
Metro: With few transits, you can reach the city center and airports easily. Use M11 for reaching the city center in Istanbul Airport.
Shuttle Buses (Havabuses): The airport offers 11 different routes between the airport and the city center. Some of the most used routes are Taksim/Kadıköy and Sabiha Gökçen Airport. It roughly takes 1.5 hours to get to the destination.
Public Buses: IETT offers 5 different routes between the airport and the city center, which are:
- H-1: Departs from Mahmutbey Metro
- H-2: Departs from Mecidiyeköy Metrobus
- H-3: Departs from Halkali- Marmaray
- H-6: Departs from Yunus Emre Mahallesi
- H-8: Departs from Haciosman
Taxi, Uber, or VIP Transfer: If you have a lot of luggage, it can be bothersome to carry all the stuff.
How Many Airlines Fly to Istanbul Airport?
Istanbul Airport serves as a hub for over 88 airlines, offering scheduled passenger traffic to 300 destinations worldwide, offering a wide range of domestic and international flight options for passengers traveling to and from Turkey. Here are some of the best airlines that operate flights to Istanbul Airport:
Airline | IATA Code |
| Turkish Airlines | TK |
| Emirates | EK |
| Qatar Airways | QR |
| Lufthansa | LH |
| British Airways | BA |
| Air France | AF |
| Etihad Airways | EY |
| Singapore Airlines | SQ |
| KLM Royal Dutch Airlines | KL |
| Aeroflot | SU |
FAQs about Istanbul Airport
Is Istanbul Airport Safe?
Yes, Istanbul Airport is quite safe for passengers. Istanbul Airport is known for its emphasis on security measures.There are around 5,150 private security officers throughout Istanbul Airport.
Is There Any Tax Refund in Istanbul Airport?
Yes, there is a tax refund service available at Istanbul Airport that allows eligible travelers to reclaim the value-added tax (VAT) on their purchases.
Is Istanbul Airport Duty-Free Open 24 Hours?
Yes, the duty-free shops at Istanbul Airport are open 24/7, providing passengers with an opportunity to shop anytime, day or night.
Does Istanbul Airport Have a Hotel?
Yes, Yotel is the only hotel located at Istanbul Airport. It has two locations: one Landside, which is for before immigration and passport control, and one Airside, which is in the transit area and is accessible only with a valid boarding pass. Find a book from Yotel Istanbul Airport Landside.
Is Istanbul Airport Expensive?
No, although prices in Turkish currency are expensive, Istanbul airport offers affordable prices for international passengers using currencies such as euros and dollars.
Can I Sleep in Istanbul Airport?
Yes, you can sleep at Istanbul Airport using the innovative sleeping pods available for travelers who need to rest during layovers or long waits at the airport. Cabin prices range from €15 to €22, depending on whether it is day or night.
Can I Leave Istanbul Airport During Layover?
Yes, you can leave Istanbul Airport during a layover to explore the city if you have a layover of more than 6 hours.
Lost Property Service in Istanbul Airport
Lost items at Istanbul Airport are handled by the Lost and Found Property Office, located near YOTEL and gate C3. Retrieval charges, which are determined by the size and storage duration, comply with the tariff guidelines to guarantee fair pricing for passengers.
Is There a Parking Fee in Istanbul Airport?
Yes, there is a parking fee at Istanbul Airport for those using the parking facilities. The airport offers various parking options with different rates based on the duration of parking and the type of parking spot chosen.
Is There a Valet Service in Istanbul Airport?
Yes, there is a valet service at Istanbul Airport, which costs TRY 350. The fees for car parking and additional services, such as car wash and detailing, are not included.
Can You Rent a Car in Istanbul Airport?
Yes, you can rent a car at Istanbul Airport from various car rental companies that operate at the airport. Renters must be at least 21 years old, have a valid driver’s license, and provide a valid credit or debit card to cover the rental costs.
Is There Any Service for Disabled Passengers in Istanbul Airport?
Yes, Istanbul Airport offers a variety of services to assist disabled passengers and those with special needs. These services include wheelchair assistance, VIP concierge services, fast-track options, and personalized assistance throughout the airport journey.
Should You Change Currency at Istanbul Airport?
No, it is advisable to not change currency at Istanbul Airport due to potentially unfavorable exchange rates offered by some currency exchange services at the airport.
Does Istanbul Airport Have Free Wifi?
Yes, Istanbul Airport provides free Wi-Fi services to all visitors, allowing them to access the internet for one hour free of charge at the airport.
Are There Any Medical Staff in Istanbul Airport?
Yes, the Healthcare Center at Istanbul Airport provides emergency healthcare services to domestic and international patients and their relatives.
