airports in turkey

Istanbul Airport

Istanbul Ataturk Airport: A Gateway to Turkey and the World

Istanbul Ataturk Airport is one of the largest and busiest airports in Turkey, serving as a gateway to the city of Istanbul and the country as a whole. It is located on the European side of Istanbul, in the district of Yesilkoy, and serves as a hub for Turkish Airlines, the country’s national carrier. In this article, we will explore the history of Istanbul Ataturk Airport, its passenger traffic, and some interesting facts about this important transportation hub.

Ataturk Airport in Istanbul on the map:

History of Istanbul Ataturk Airport

Istanbul Ataturk Airport has a rich history, dating back to the early 20th century when the Ottoman Empire was still in power. In 1912, the Ottoman Empire established an airfield in Yesilkoy, which was used for military purposes during World War I. After the war, the airfield was converted into a civilian airport and renamed Yeşilköy Airport.

The airport underwent several renovations and expansions throughout the years, with the most significant one taking place in the 1980s. The airport was renamed Istanbul Ataturk Airport in honor of the founder of the Turkish Republic, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk. Today, Istanbul Ataturk Airport is a modern facility with state-of-the-art technology and facilities, capable of handling millions of passengers each year.

Passenger Traffic

Istanbul Ataturk Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, with a yearly passenger traffic of around 60 million. The airport serves as a hub for Turkish Airlines, which operates flights to over 300 destinations in more than 120 countries. Other airlines that operate at the airport include Lufthansa, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Air France.

The airport has three terminals, with Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 serving international flights and Terminal 3 serving domestic flights. The airport has an extensive network of transportation options, including taxis, buses, and metro lines, making it easy for passengers to travel to and from the airport.

Interesting Facts about Istanbul Ataturk Airport

  • Istanbul Ataturk Airport was the first airport in Turkey to receive international flights.
  • The airport has won numerous awards for its design and services, including the Skytrax World Airport Awards.
  • The airport has a capacity of 90 million passengers per year, making it one of the largest airports in the world.
  • The airport has a dedicated terminal for private jets, offering luxurious facilities and services for VIPs.
  • The airport has an art gallery that showcases works by Turkish artists, providing a unique cultural experience for travelers.

Istanbul Ataturk Airport is a vital transportation hub in Turkey and serves as a gateway to the country’s rich culture, history, and natural beauty. With its modern facilities, extensive transportation network, and award-winning services, it has become a popular destination for travelers from around the world. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, Istanbul Ataturk Airport is the perfect starting point for your journey.

Video about the airport in Turkey:

Although Ataturk Airport is no longer Istanbul’s main airport, it played an important role in the city’s aviation history and many travelers have fond memories of passing through its terminals. Thanks to its convenient location and wide range of facilities and services, Ataturk Airport has been a popular choice among travelers visiting Istanbul and Turkey.

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