Introduction to Istanbul Airport [IST]
Providing flights to more than 350 destinations, Istanbul Airport [IST] is the largest airport in Turkey and one of the busiest airports in the world.
The new airport that replaced the previous Ataturk Airport is located on the European side of Istanbul, in the Arnavutköy district. It is approximately 40 km from Taksim and 52 km from both Sultanahmet (the historical Old Town) and Kadıköy (the city center on Istanbul’s Asian side).
Istanbul Airport began operations on October 29, 2018, and has an annual passenger capacity of 90 million in its first phase. When all phases are completed, the airport will have a capacity of 200 million passengers.
Istanbul Airport is the main hub for Turkish Airlines, the national flag carrier, and serves as a hub for several other airlines as well. It handles most of the city's important flight connections, layovers, departures, and arrivals.
Overall, Istanbul Airport [IST] is a modern and well-equipped airport that offers a range of services and amenities to passengers. It is no surprise the airport ranked first in the "World's Best Airports" in 2022 by the famous traveling and lifestyle magazine Condé Nast Traveler, as it is designed to provide maximum comfort to passengers.
Whether you are arriving in Istanbul or departing from the city, you can expect a smooth and enjoyable experience at the airport.
Useful Information
Prepare yourself for a smooth takeoff at Istanbul Airport [IST] with useful information at your fingertips. Gain insights on arrivals & departures, flight connections and layovers, and familiarize yourself with the array of services provided.
Arrivals & Departures
Essential details for a smooth journey at Istanbul Airport [IST]
Flight Connections and Layovers
Seamlessly navigate connections at Istanbul Airport [IST]
Services at the Airport
Discover amenities to enhance your experience at Istanbul Airport [IST]
Select Your Private or Shared Transfer Options
Arrivals & Departures
The best way to check real-time information about arrivals and departures at Istanbul Airport [IST] is to visit the airport's official website. On the website, you can find a list of flights that are expected to arrive or depart, the exact times of arrival or departure, flight numbers, and the current status and any delays.
For more detailed information on arrivals and departures at Istanbul Airport [IST], please visit our dedicated page by clicking the link below.
Flight Connections and Layovers
If you are taking a transit flight at Istanbul Airport, there are a few things you should know in order to make your trip as smooth as possible:
First, it's important to check with your airline to make sure that your layover time is sufficient to allow you to make your connecting flight. In general, a layover of at least two hours is recommended in order to give yourself enough time to go through security and make your way to your next gate.
Explore our dedicated page for a more comprehensive overview of flight connections and layover at Istanbul Airport [IST]. Click the link below for detailed information.
Services at the Airport
Here is an overview of the services offered at Istanbul Airport:
Shopping: Arguably the most popular activity to pass time at Istanbul Airport is shopping in the duty-free area, which is one of the largest in the world. In addition to the duty-free area, there are a number of brand-name stores offering clothing, accessories, electronics, toys and much more.
Airport Library: Istanbul Airport is home to a library containing more than 2,000 books and magazines. It is located at the Domestic Departures floor and can be visited between 06.30 am to 11:20 pm.
Want to know more about the services offered at Istanbul Airport [IST]? Visit our dedicated page by clicking the link below for a comprehensive overview.
Istanbul Airport FAQ
Currently, Istanbul Airport is able to handle 90 million passengers per year. It is expected that the airport will have the capability to serve 200 million passengers annually by 2028.
One of the most popular and easiest options to get from Istanbul Airport to the city center is with a shared transfer or a private transfer. Equally popular are the low-cost shuttle buses called HAVAIST.
Alternatively, you can take public buses that go to various central areas of Istanbul, or a taxi or Uber. Since January 2023, the new M11 metro line connects Istanbul Airport to the city. The line is awaiting the opening of the terminus stop at Gayrettepe station for full completion.
You can choose from a wide range of amenities and activities at Istanbul Airport. Browse through the top-notch duty-free area, which has a huge assortment of designer goods, apparel, electronics, and trinkets. The restaurants, cafes, and food outlets at the airport offer a variety of local and international cuisines. Unwind in the airport lounges or refresh at the SPA and cosmetic facilities. View art exhibits, look through the library, or relax in designated TV viewing areas. The airport also has areas with sleep pods for naps and a youth lounge specifically for young travelers.
Yes, Istanbul Airport provides 1-hour free Wi-Fi access for passengers. You can obtain a code by using the Wi-Fi kiosks located throughout the airport or by connecting with your mobile phone. For more details on the WI-FI Service at Istanbul Airport, visit our page "Services at Istanbul Airport".
Yes, Istanbul Airport has an airport hotel called YOTEL Istanbul Airport Hotel. It has two locations: landside, which is situated on the airport entrance side within the flight check-in area, and airside, which is the right choice for a transit hotel within Istanbul Airport.
Istanbul Airport is situated in Istanbul's Arnavutköy district, on the European side of the city.
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This website is not the official airport's website. This website is giving you only an overview of the available transfers.
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