Airports in Turkey: A Guide to the Best, Newest, and Most Attractive Airports
Turkey is a global hub for travel, bridging Europe and Asia with a network of state-of-the-art airports. With its dynamic growth in aviation and tourism, the country boasts some of the most impressive airports in the world. Whether you are a traveler or an aviation enthusiast, this comprehensive guide to the best, newest, and most attractive airports in Turkey will provide valuable insights.
1. Istanbul Airport (IST)
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Location: Arnavutköy, Istanbul
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Opening Date: October 29, 2018
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Total Area: 76.5 million square meters
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Passenger Capacity: Designed to accommodate up to 200 million passengers annually upon full completion
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Key Features:
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Istanbul Airport is one of the largest and most modern airports in the world.
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Its terminal design is inspired by Istanbul’s rich history, with vaulted ceilings and Turkish motifs.
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Home to one of the world’s largest duty-free shopping areas.
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It features advanced technology, such as facial recognition systems and automated passport control gates.
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Winner of multiple international awards for sustainability and design.
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- Website: Istanbul International Airport
2. Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW)
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Location: Pendik, Istanbul (Asian Side)
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Opening Date: January 8, 2001
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Total Area: 6 million square meters
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Passenger Capacity: 41 million passengers annually
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Key Features:
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Named after the world’s first female combat pilot, Sabiha Gökçen.
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A primary hub for low-cost carriers and regional flights.
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Convenient access to Istanbul’s Asian side and nearby cities like Bursa.
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Recently expanded with a new domestic terminal and metro connectivity.
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- Website: Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport
3. Ankara Esenboğa Airport (ESB)
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Location: Akyurt, Ankara
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Opening Date: October 1955 (modern terminal: 2006)
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Total Area: 7 million square meters
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Passenger Capacity: 20 million passengers annually
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Key Features:
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Serves as the main airport for Turkey’s capital city, Ankara.
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Awarded the “Best Airport in Europe” for airports serving fewer than 10 million passengers annually by ACI.
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Offers quick access to governmental institutions and embassies.
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Modern, passenger-friendly terminal with a strong focus on comfort and efficiency.
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- Website: Ankara Esenboğa Airport
4. Antalya Airport (AYT)
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Location: Antalya
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Opening Date: April 1, 1998
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Total Area: 13 million square meters
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Passenger Capacity: 35 million passengers annually
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Key Features:
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Gateway to Turkey’s Mediterranean coast, serving millions of tourists annually.
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Three terminals, including one dedicated to domestic flights.
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Recognized for its high operational efficiency during peak tourist seasons.
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Surrounded by natural beauty, with architecture designed to reflect the Mediterranean’s charm.
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- Website: Antalya International Airport
5. İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB)
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Location: Gaziemir, İzmir
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Opening Date: 1987 (new terminal: 2014)
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Total Area: 13 million square meters
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Passenger Capacity: 25 million passengers annually
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Key Features:
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Serves the Aegean region and popular destinations like Çeşme and Ephesus.
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Eco-friendly airport with a focus on sustainability.
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Spacious and modern terminal with abundant natural light and greenery.
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Efficient transport links, including a rail connection to İzmir city center.
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- Website: İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport
6. Trabzon Airport (TZX)
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Location: Trabzon
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Opening Date: 1957 (renovated in 2008)
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Total Area: 2.5 million square meters
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Passenger Capacity: 5 million passengers annually
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Key Features:
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Nestled between the Black Sea and lush mountains, offering stunning views during takeoff and landing.
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Key gateway to Turkey’s northeastern region and the iconic Uzungöl Lake.
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Compact and efficient, making it ideal for regional travel.
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- Website: Trabzon Airport
7. Gazipaşa-Alanya Airport (GZP)
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Location: Gazipaşa, Antalya Province
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Opening Date: 2010
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Total Area: 1.4 million square meters
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Passenger Capacity: 2.5 million passengers annually
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Key Features:
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Focuses on serving tourists visiting Alanya and its surroundings.
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Small yet modern, with facilities tailored for a pleasant travel experience.
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Notable for its scenic approach path over the Taurus Mountains.
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- Website: Gazipaşa-Alanya Airport
8. Rize-Artvin Airport (RZV)
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Location: Rize Province
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Opening Date: May 14, 2022
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Total Area: 3 million square meters
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Passenger Capacity: 3 million passengers annually
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Key Features:
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One of Turkey’s newest airports, constructed entirely on reclaimed land.
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Impressive design inspired by local Black Sea architecture.
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Promotes the region’s eco-tourism with green energy and sustainability initiatives.
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- Website: Rize-Artvin Airport
Why Turkey’s Airports Stand Out
Turkey’s airports are not only travel hubs but also architectural masterpieces that integrate technology, culture, and sustainability. The country’s aviation infrastructure is designed to cater to the needs of millions of passengers, ensuring safety, comfort, and efficiency. Whether you are flying internationally or domestically, the variety of airports in Turkey ensures a seamless travel experience.
Conclusion
From the world-class Istanbul Airport to scenic regional airports like Trabzon, Turkey’s airports reflect the country’s commitment to excellence in aviation. Their unique designs, advanced technology, and cultural influences make them a cornerstone of Turkey’s global connectivity. Next time you plan your journey, rest assured that Turkey’s airports are ready to provide you with an exceptional travel experience.
If you are looking to explore Turkey or simply learn more about its incredible infrastructure, this guide to airports in Turkey will help you make informed decisions for your travels.
