Istanbul Airport (IST)
Airport Overview
Istanbul Airport (Turkish: İstanbul Havalimanı) is the primary international airport serving Istanbul, Turkey, and one of the most significant aviation hubs in the world. Officially named "Istanbul Airport" at its opening ceremony on 29 October 2018 — timed to coincide with the 95th anniversary of the Turkish Republic — the airport operates under the IATA code IST and ICAO code LTFM. It is located in the Arnavutköy district on the European side of Istanbul, approximately 40 kilometres (25 miles) northwest of the city centre, accessible via the O-7 motorway and D.020 highway.
The airport serves as the primary hub for Turkish Airlines (Star Alliance), which operates the vast majority of flights from the facility and uses it as its global headquarters base. Turkish Cargo also operates its main hub here. In 2024, Istanbul Airport handled approximately 79.87 million passengers — 17.09 million domestic and 62.9 million international — representing a 5% increase over 2023's figure of 76.2 million. This placed it as Europe's second-busiest airport (behind London Heathrow), the seventh-busiest globally in total passenger traffic, and the seventh-busiest worldwide in international passenger traffic according to ACI World data. On 30 June 2024, the airport set an all-time single-day record of 268,275 passengers.
The airport was opened for limited operations on 31 October 2018, with the first commercial flight being Turkish Airlines TK2124 to Ankara. The full transfer of all scheduled flights from the old Atatürk Airport (now closed for commercial operations) and Sabiha Gökçen was completed on 6 April 2019, with the IATA code IST formally transferred to the new facility. The airport was constructed in four planned phases by iGA Airport Operation Inc., a consortium. The concept design was led by Grimshaw Architects, Nordic Office of Architecture, and Haptic Architects, with Scott Brownrigg as lead delivery architect.
What makes Istanbul Airport exceptional is its sheer scale and ambition. The first phase alone delivered a 1,440,000 m² terminal building — the world's third-largest airport terminal — with a current capacity of 90 million passengers annually. When all four phases are completed (estimated by 2027), the airport will feature up to eight runways, four terminal buildings, and a total passenger capacity of up to 200 million annually, potentially making it the world's largest airport. The iconic air traffic control tower is shaped like a tulip — Turkey's national flower. With flights to over 350 destinations in 122 countries, Istanbul Airport positions itself as a global crossroads between Europe, Asia, and Africa.
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Terminals & Gates
Main Terminal — Istanbul Airport
Istanbul Airport currently operates a single, enormous integrated terminal building — the largest airport terminal in Europe and the third-largest in the world by area, at 1,440,000 m² (15,500,000 sq ft). The terminal opened in October 2018 and reached full operational capacity by April 2019. It was designed by an international consortium led by Grimshaw Architects, Nordic Office of Architecture, and Haptic Architects, with Scott Brownrigg as lead delivery architect and IGA Design handling interior concept design.
The terminal is divided into distinct International Departures, Domestic Departures, and Arrivals zones, all within the same building. The structure accommodates 90 million passengers per year in its first phase. A second terminal (Phase 3) with 60 million passenger capacity is planned.
International Terminal (Airside)
The international departures section is accessed after passport control. It is organised around a central concourse with gate piers extending in multiple directions. Gates are grouped into lettered zones (A, B, C, D, E, F, G). The international section contains the majority of the airport's duty-free shopping, dining, and lounges.
- Airlines: Turkish Airlines international flights, all foreign carriers (Lufthansa, Emirates, British Airways, Air France, Qatar Airways, EasyJet, Wizz Air, Ryanair, and 80+ more)
- Alliance groupings: All three major alliances (Star Alliance, oneworld, SkyTeam) operate here alongside LCCs
- Lounges: Turkish Airlines Business Lounge (Gate E1 area), Turkish Airlines Miles & Smiles Lounge (Gate C1 area), iGA Lounge International, YOTELAIR (airside hotel/rest cabins), iGA Pop-Up Lounge
- Key facilities: Unifree Duty Free (160+ retail shops), multiple dining outlets, Hacı Abdullah, Polo Lounge, currency exchange, ATMs, prayer rooms (male/female), showers, medical centre, baby care rooms, pet relief areas, YOTELAIR sleep cabins
Domestic Terminal (Airside)
The domestic departures section handles all Turkish Airlines and other airline domestic flights within Turkey. It is located within the same terminal building and accessible after domestic security screening.
- Airlines: Turkish Airlines domestic flights, Pegasus Airlines, AnadoluJet, SunExpress
- Lounges: Turkish Airlines Domestic CIP Lounge (accessible by bus directly to aircraft), iGA Domestic Lounge (700 m², 140 capacity)
- Key facilities: Duty-free, dining, retail, baby care rooms
Landside Area (Before Security / Check-In Hall)
The landside area is where passengers check in, and is accessible to all visitors (meeters and greeters, hotel guests, etc.). It contains:
- Check-in counters for all airlines (grouped by airline)
- YOTEL Istanbul Airport (full hotel, gym, restaurant — accessible to all)
- Retail and food outlets
- Havaist bus stops and taxi rank access via Level -2
- Metro M11 station access
- Car rental desks (arrivals level)
Inter-Terminal Connections
Since all operations take place within a single terminal building, there are no inter-terminal shuttles required. The domestic and international sections are connected within the building; however, transit between them requires going through the relevant security and passport control processes. The metro station is a 6–7 minute walk from the terminal via moving walkways.
---Transportation Guide
Getting from Istanbul Airport to the City Centre
Istanbul Airport (IST) is located approximately 40 km northwest of central Istanbul. Despite the distance, the city is served by several well-developed transport options including a dedicated metro line, airport shuttle buses, municipal buses, taxis, and private transfers. Travel time to the city centre typically ranges from 30–90 minutes depending on mode of transport and traffic conditions.
Metro — M11 Line (Gayrettepe – Istanbul Airport)
The M11 metro line is the fastest and most reliable public transport option to the city. The line opened in January 2023 and was extended to Gayrettepe in January 2024. It comprises 10 stations: Istanbul Airport, Cargo Terminal, Taşoluk, Arnavutköy, İhsaniye, Göktürk, Kemerburgaz, University-Hasdal, Kağıthane, and Gayrettepe. The journey from Istanbul Airport to Gayrettepe takes approximately 30 minutes, from where passengers can transfer to the M2 metro line for Taksim, Levent, and Şişli.
- Journey time: 30 min to Gayrettepe; ~60–75 min to Taksim (including transfer)
- Frequency: Every 20 minutes
- Operating hours: 06:00 – 00:00 (airport end); 06:00 – 00:40 (Gayrettepe end)
- Ticket price: Approx. 20–70 TL per journey using Istanbulkart (contactless card); contactless bank cards also accepted since 2023
- Istanbulkart: Purchase at machines in the metro station for 70 TL; top up a minimum of 70 TL for travel to central districts
- Metro station access: Turn right after Gate 9 or left after Gate 13; follow moving walkways from Gate 11 area
- Note: An extension to Halkalı is under construction, which will provide further connectivity
Havaist Airport Shuttle Buses
Havaist operates 11 dedicated airport shuttle routes from Istanbul Airport to key districts across Istanbul. Buses depart from the transportation floor (Level -2) of the arrivals hall. Tickets can be purchased at Havaist counters, vending machines, or via the Havaist mobile app. A round-trip ticket purchased via the app offers a 40% discount on the return journey (valid for 30 days).
- HVL-9 to Taksim Square: 3–4 stops; approx. 60–90 min; ~275 TL (≈€7)
- HVIST-14 to Kadıköy: 5 stops; approx. 90–120 min; ~275 TL (≈€7)
- Frequency: Every 45–60 minutes per route
- Operating hours: Approximately 24/7 on major routes (check istairport.com for specific schedules)
- Payment: Cash (TL), credit/debit card, or Havaist app
IETT Municipal Buses
Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality's IETT public buses also serve Istanbul Airport. These require an Istanbulkart or contactless bank card for payment (no cash accepted). While the cheapest option, IETT buses can be slower and more crowded, and may require transfers. Recommended primarily if your destination is not near a metro or Havaist stop.
- Price: Single fare approx. 15–30 TL per trip segment
- Journey time: 60–140 minutes depending on traffic and destination
Taxi
Official yellow (standard), turquoise (Turquaz — slightly larger), and black (minivan) taxis are available 24/7 outside the arrivals hall. Taxi ranks are clearly marked and accessible through Gates 9 and 13. All licensed airport taxis use taximeters.
- Approximate fare to Taksim/Sultanahmet: 1,500–2,000 TL (≈€35–€50)
- Journey time: 45–60 minutes (off-peak); 60–90 minutes (rush hour)
- Tip: Always confirm the meter is running before departure; avoid informal taxi touts inside the terminal
Ride-Sharing Apps
Both Uber and BiTaksi (a local Turkish ride-hailing app) operate at Istanbul Airport. Uber Istanbul uses the city's licensed yellow taxis, so fares are metered. Pickup points are designated in the official taxi zone. Approximate cost to city centre: 1,200–1,800 TL (≈€28–€43) depending on traffic.
Private Transfers
Pre-booked private transfers with meet-and-greet service are available from numerous operators (e.g., Welcome Pickups, Rento Transfer, local agencies). Prices are typically fixed: €25–€50 for a standard saloon to city centre. This is the most hassle-free option for families and business travellers with luggage.
Car Rental
All major international car rental companies operate at Istanbul Airport, including Avis, Hertz, Budget, Europcar, Sixt, Rent a Car, and Thrifty. Rental desks are located on the arrivals level of the terminal. The airport is accessed via the O-7 motorway (Northern Marmara Highway), which connects to the city's main road network.
Hotel Shuttle Buses
YOTEL Istanbul Airport (the only hotel inside the terminal) does not require a shuttle — it is directly inside the terminal building. Hotels in the wider Arnavutköy/Göktürk area may offer shuttle services; confirm when booking.
| Transport | Time | Price (approx.) | Frequency | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metro M11 | 30 min to Gayrettepe; 60–75 min to Taksim | 20–70 TL (≈€1–€2) | Every 20 min | 06:00–00:00 |
| Havaist Shuttle (to Taksim) | 60–90 min | ~275 TL (≈€7) | Every 45–60 min | Near 24/7 |
| IETT Public Bus | 60–140 min | 15–30 TL (≈€0.50–€1) | Variable | Varies by route |
| Taxi (metered) | 45–90 min | 1,500–2,000 TL (≈€35–€50) | On demand, 24/7 | 24/7 |
| Ride-Share (Uber/BiTaksi) | 45–90 min | 1,200–1,800 TL (≈€28–€43) | On demand | 24/7 |
| Private Transfer (pre-booked) | 45–60 min | €25–€50 fixed | Pre-booked | 24/7 |
Hotels Near the Airport
Hotels Inside the Airport Terminal
Istanbul Airport has a unique distinction among European airports: it contains two YOTEL properties directly within the terminal building, making it one of very few airports in the world with both landside and airside hotel options inside the same structure. YOTEL Istanbul Airport is the largest airport hotel in Europe with a total of 451 cabins across both properties.
YOTEL Istanbul Airport (Landside) — Located near Entrance #7 on the departures floor, accessible to all travellers before passport control. Features 171 SmartBed™ cabins, 24-hour gym, Komyuniti Restaurant & Bar, meeting rooms, free WiFi, and 24-hour front desk. Ideal for travellers with early morning flights or arriving late at night from the city. Cabins can be booked from 4 hours. Price range: approx. €50–€130/night; hourly rates from €9–€12.
YOTELAIR Istanbul Airport (Airside) — Located within the Duty-Free zone of the international departures area, accessible only to passengers with a valid international boarding pass. Features 280 Sleepcabins with SmartBeds™, monsoon rain showers (shared), complimentary WiFi, and 24/7 access. Ideal for long international layovers. Recharge Cabins can be booked by the hour (maximum 4 hours per booking) for quick naps. Price range: approx. $235–$384/night; hourly Recharge Cabins bookable from the YOTEL website.
Hotels Within 5 km of the Airport
The airport is located in the Arnavutköy district, a largely residential and industrial area. Hotel options immediately adjacent to the airport perimeter are limited, but several properties exist in the broader Arnavutköy/Göktürk/Başakşehir corridor within a 5–15 minute drive.
- Holiday Inn Express Istanbul Airport: ★★★ — Modern, functional hotel approximately 5 km from the terminal. Free shuttle service to/from airport. Approx. €60–€100/night.
- Swissôtel The Bosphorus Istanbul: ★★★★★ — Premium city hotel, ~45 min drive. Approx. €180–€350/night. (Closer to city but popular for business travellers flying IST.)
- The Marmara Taksim: ★★★★ — Central city location, Taksim area. Approx. €100–€200/night.
Sleep Zones and Rest Areas
Beyond the YOTELAIR cabins, Istanbul Airport does not have designated free public sleeping areas with dedicated seating. The airport operates 24/7 and many public seating areas are available throughout the terminal, though these are not specifically designed for overnight sleeping. Passengers on long layovers are best served by booking a YOTELAIR cabin or accessing a lounge with rest facilities.
Transit Hotel Option for Visa-Free Layovers
YOTELAIR (airside) is the primary airside transit hotel. Passengers in transit on international flights who do not wish to enter Turkey can rest here without requiring a Turkish visa, as the facility is located within the international transit zone after passport control.
---Parking Options & Rates
Parking at Istanbul Airport
Istanbul Airport offers an extensive multi-level car parking facility directly integrated with the terminal building. The indoor car park has a capacity of 12,000 vehicles. Multiple parking categories are available to suit short and long stays.
Parking Categories and Pricing
Pricing is set by iGA Airport Operation and subject to change. The following rates reflect 2024 published tariffs (prices in Turkish Lira):
| Parking Type | Location | 1st Hour | Daily Rate | Weekly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short-Term (P1) | Attached to terminal building, Levels 1–4 | ~200 TL | ~800–1,500 TL | N/A |
| Long-Term (P2/P3) | Multi-story car park, 5–10 min walk | ~150 TL | ~600–1,000 TL | ~4,000–6,000 TL |
| Valet/Premium | Terminal entrance | ~300 TL | ~1,500–2,500 TL | Enquire |
| Drop-off/Pick-up | Terminal front | Free 10 min; then metered | N/A | N/A |
Note: Turkish Lira prices fluctuate significantly due to inflation. Always check current rates at istairport.com or at the parking payment machines before arrival.
Online Pre-Booking
Istanbul Airport parking can be pre-booked via the official iGA website and third-party parking booking platforms. Pre-booking typically offers a discount of 10–20% compared to walk-up rates, and guarantees a space during peak travel periods.
EV Charging
Electric vehicle charging stations are available within the airport parking facilities. Locations and availability should be confirmed via the official airport website.
Off-Airport Parking (Park & Ride)
Several private off-airport parking operators exist in the Arnavutköy and Başakşehir areas offering cheaper daily rates with shuttle transfers to the terminal. These can be found via comparison sites. Typical prices: €10–€20/day including shuttle. Verify operator reliability before booking.
Payment Methods
Parking payment is accepted via cash (TL), credit/debit cards, and contactless payment at automated terminals. The airport's parking infrastructure supports 24/7 payment processing.
---Services & Facilities
WiFi
Istanbul Airport provides free high-speed WiFi throughout the terminal (both landside and airside). Connect to the network named "Istanbul Airport Free WiFi" or similar branded network. No time limit is imposed for standard use. Speed is generally adequate for browsing, streaming, and video calls.
Lounges
- Turkish Airlines Business Lounge (International, Gate E1 area) — Open 24/7. Access: Turkish Airlines Business Class passengers and Star Alliance Business Class passengers. Features: private suite rooms (24 suites with beds), shower suites, open buffet (Turkish & international cuisine), bar, children's play area, golf simulator, VR simulator, business centre, prayer rooms. One of the most acclaimed lounges in Europe.
- Turkish Airlines Miles & Smiles Lounge (International, Gate C1 area) — Open 24/7. 5,600 m², capacity 765. Access: Turkish Airlines Business Class, Star Alliance Gold, Miles & Smiles Elite/Elite Plus. Features: cinema, children's indoor playground (model aircraft), library, shower suites (12), open buffet, bar.
- Turkish Airlines Domestic CIP Lounge — Open 24/7. Access: Turkish Airlines domestic Business Class and eligible Miles & Smiles members. Features: direct boarding bus, buffet, playground.
- iGA Lounge International — Open 24/7. Access: Priority Pass, Dragon Pass, HighPass, LoungeMe, or fee-based (approx. €85 + VAT per person). Features: open buffet, complimentary massage (Tue/Wed/Fri/Sat/Sun 08:00–17:00), billiards, workstations, outdoor terrace, prayer rooms, showers.
- iGA Domestic Lounge — Open 24/7. 700 m², 140 capacity. Located opposite G6 gate. Access: fee-based or via contracted programmes.
- iGA Pop-Up Lounge — Available in the International Terminal; spot access for eligible programmes.
Shopping
Istanbul Airport is a world-class shopping destination with over 160 retail outlets airside. The duty-free operation is run by Unifree Duty Free (operated by Gebr. Heinemann and Unifree). Highlights include:
- Electronics and luxury goods: Apple, Samsung
- Fashion: Hugo Boss, Burberry, Ermenegildo Zegna, Longchamp
- Cosmetics and perfumes: MAC, Clinique, Lancôme, Jo Malone
- Turkish specialities: Turkish delight, baklava, teas, ceramics, carpets
- Books: WHSmith and local Turkish bookstores
- Tobacco and spirits: extensive duty-free selection
Dining
The airport offers a comprehensive dining scene across both landside and airside areas, with options ranging from budget cafés to sit-down restaurants:
- Hacı Abdullah: Iconic Istanbul restaurant brand; traditional Turkish cuisine, full service
- McDonald's, Burger King, Sbarro: Fast food options available 24/7
- Starbucks, Costa Coffee: Coffee chains throughout the terminal
- Polo Lounge: Premium bar and restaurant concept
- Turkish Delight shops: Multiple dedicated confectionery outlets for local specialties
- Komyuniti (YOTEL): Full-service restaurant and bar in the landside hotel
- Price range: Budget meals €5–€10; mid-range €15–€30; premium dining €35+
Medical Services
A fully equipped medical centre and pharmacy operate 24/7 within the terminal. Location: follow airport directional signs for "Health / Sağlık". First aid facilities are also distributed throughout the terminal. Emergency medical assistance is available immediately by alerting any airport staff member.
Family Facilities
- Children's play areas in both the Turkish Airlines lounges and common terminal areas
- Dedicated baby care and nursing rooms on all floors
- Family lanes at security checkpoints
- 5 pet relief areas on both Domestic and International Departures zones and Arrivals level
Accessibility (PRM Services)
Istanbul Airport provides comprehensive accessibility services for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM). Assistance can be requested through your airline at time of booking or at the special assistance desks in the arrivals and departures halls. The metro M11 station has full lift access. Havaist operates accessible midibuses upon advance request (minimum 1 hour for arrival transfers; 6 hours for departure from city).
Currency Exchange and ATMs
Currency exchange counters (döviz bürosu) are located throughout both the landside and airside areas. Multiple ATMs are available at the metro station (which also has an exchange office) and throughout the terminal. Note: exchange rates at airport counters are typically less favourable than in the city; if possible, withdraw cash from ATMs or exchange in the city centre.
Luggage Storage
Left-luggage storage (emanet) facilities are available within the terminal. Prices vary by locker size and duration; typically 150–400 TL per day. Locate the storage desks via airport signage near the arrivals area.
Smoking
Istanbul Airport is a smoke-free terminal. Smoking is not permitted anywhere inside the terminal building, including lounges. Designated outdoor smoking areas are located outside the terminal. Violations may result in fines.
Prayer Rooms and Chapels
Dedicated prayer rooms (namaz odası / mescit) with wudu/ablution facilities are available on multiple floors of both the International and Domestic sections of the terminal. Separate facilities for male and female worshippers are provided. The Turkish Airlines lounges also have their own prayer and ablution facilities.
Showers
Shower facilities are available in the Turkish Airlines Business Lounge and Miles & Smiles Lounge for eligible passengers. The iGA Lounge International also offers shower access for fee-paying or contracted lounge guests. YOTELAIR and YOTEL guests have private in-cabin showers (or shared shower facilities for Recharge Cabin guests).
---Airlines & Destinations
Hub Airlines
Turkish Airlines (TK) — Star Alliance member; primary hub carrier. The world's airline with the most international destinations, operating flights to 300+ destinations in 122 countries. Istanbul Airport serves as Turkish Airlines' global headquarters hub, and the airline dominates the passenger mix at IST.
Turkish Cargo (TK) — The cargo arm of Turkish Airlines, using IST as its primary hub. One of the world's leading cargo carriers.
Star Alliance Carriers
- Lufthansa (LH) — Frankfurt, Munich
- United Airlines (UA) — New York JFK, Newark
- Air Canada (AC) — Toronto
- Singapore Airlines (SQ) — Singapore
- Ethiopian Airlines (ET) — Addis Ababa
- EgyptAir (MS) — Cairo
- Swiss (LX) — Zurich
- ANA (NH) — Tokyo
- Aegean Airlines (A3) — Athens
oneworld Carriers
- British Airways (BA) — London Heathrow
- Qatar Airways (QR) — Doha
- Iberia (IB) — Madrid
- Finnair (AY) — Helsinki
- Royal Air Maroc (AT) — Casablanca
SkyTeam Carriers
- Air France (AF) — Paris CDG
- KLM (KL) — Amsterdam
- Delta Air Lines (DL) — Atlanta, New York
- Alitalia / ITA Airways (AZ) — Rome
- China Southern (CZ) — Guangzhou
- Korean Air (KE) — Seoul
- Saudia (SV) — Riyadh, Jeddah
Low-Cost Carriers (LCC)
- Pegasus Airlines (PC) — Turkish LCC; major domestic and European routes
- Wizz Air (W6) — Eastern/Central Europe
- EasyJet (U2) — Western European routes
- Ryanair (FR) — European budget routes
- AnadoluJet (TK sub-brand) — Domestic Turkey
- SunExpress (XQ) — German/Austrian routes, domestic
Top Routes from Istanbul Airport
| Route | Primary Carrier(s) | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Istanbul – London Heathrow | Turkish Airlines, British Airways | International |
| Istanbul – Frankfurt | Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa | International |
| Istanbul – Amsterdam | Turkish Airlines, KLM | International |
| Istanbul – Dubai | Turkish Airlines, Emirates, flydubai | International |
| Istanbul – New York JFK | Turkish Airlines | Intercontinental |
| Istanbul – Doha | Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways | International |
| Istanbul – Ankara | Turkish Airlines, Pegasus, AnadoluJet | Domestic |
| Istanbul – Antalya | Turkish Airlines, Pegasus, SunExpress | Domestic |
| Istanbul – Izmir | Turkish Airlines, Pegasus, AnadoluJet | Domestic |
| Istanbul – Tokyo Narita | Turkish Airlines | Intercontinental |
Distances & Travel Times
Distances from Istanbul Airport (IST)
| Destination | Distance | By Car | By Public Transport |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taksim Square (City Centre) | ~40 km | 45–60 min (off-peak) | 60–75 min (M11 + M2) |
| Sultanahmet / Old City | ~50 km | 55–75 min | 75–90 min (metro + tram) |
| Gayrettepe (M11 endpoint) | ~32 km | 35–50 min | 30 min (M11 metro) |
| Kadıköy (Asian Side) | ~60 km | 60–90 min | 90–120 min (Havaist HVIST-14) |
| Beşiktaş | ~45 km | 50–65 min | 70–90 min |
| Atatürk Airport (closed) | ~30 km | 30–45 min | N/A |
| Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) | ~80 km | 75–100 min | 120–150 min |
| Grand Bazaar | ~48 km | 55–70 min | 80–100 min |
| Topkapi Palace | ~50 km | 55–70 min | 80–100 min |
| Hagia Sophia | ~50 km | 55–70 min | 80–100 min |
| Sirkeci Train Station | ~48 km | 55–70 min | 80–100 min (metro + tram) |
| Edirne (via TEM motorway) | ~230 km | ~2.5 hrs | N/A direct |
Passenger Statistics
Istanbul Airport Traffic Statistics
Istanbul Airport has grown rapidly since opening in October 2018, establishing itself as one of Europe's dominant aviation hubs in just six years of operation. The airport surpassed 76 million passengers in 2023, making it Europe's second-busiest airport (behind London Heathrow's 79.2 million), and consolidated this position in 2024 with nearly 80 million passengers.
| Year | Total Passengers | International | Domestic | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 | ~13.7 million | — | — | Last 3 months only (Oct–Dec 2018) |
| 2019 | ~52.6 million | — | — | First full year; gradual transfer from Atatürk |
| 2020 | ~23.5 million | — | — | COVID-19 pandemic year |
| 2021 | ~37.8 million | — | — | Partial recovery |
| 2022 | ~64.0 million | ~50+ million | ~13 million | Europe's busiest airport (ahead of Heathrow) |
| 2023 | 76.2 million | ~58 million | ~18 million | Europe's 2nd busiest; +20% YoY on international |
| 2024 | 79.87 million | 62.9 million | 17.09 million | +5% YoY; 7th worldwide in total & international pax |
Aircraft Movements
In 2024, Istanbul Airport handled 517,285 aircraft movements — 117,764 domestic and 399,521 international flight movements. The airport achieved a record single-day traffic figure of 268,275 passengers on 30 June 2024, with 1,592 aircraft movements on that day (1,214 international, 378 domestic).
World and European Rankings (2024)
- Europe: 2nd busiest airport (after London Heathrow)
- World — Total passengers: 7th busiest
- World — International passengers: 7th busiest (63+ million international pax)
- Largest privately-owned airport in the world
- Terminal building: 3rd largest in the world by area (1.44 million m²)
Cargo
Istanbul Airport is also a major global cargo hub through Turkish Cargo. Turkey's total international air cargo reached 4.02 million tonnes in 2024 (+11.1% YoY), with the vast majority handled through IST.
---Frequently Asked Questions
Contact Information
General Information
Phone: +90 444 1 442
24/7
Official Website
Social Media
Twitter: @istairport
Instagram: @istairport
Lost & Found
Phone: +90 444 1 442 (main switchboard, ask for Lost & Found)
Location: Arrivals level, follow 'Lost & Found / Kayıp Eşya' signs. Also at M11 metro station.
Open: 24/7
Pro Tips for Istanbul Airport
- The metro M11 station is a 6–7 minute walk from the terminal via moving walkways. Turn right after Gate 9 or left after Gate 13, and follow signs. This is by far the cheapest and most reliable way to reach Gayrettepe and the rest of Istanbul's metro network.
- The Havaist bus stops are on Level -2 (underground). Look for the large route map and platform signs near the escalators in the arrivals hall. Buy your ticket at the Havaist counter before going to the platform — staff speak enough English to help.
- iGA Lounge International accepts Priority Pass and Dragon Pass — if you have one of these memberships from a travel credit card, you don't need to pay the door fee. The lounge has an outdoor terrace (unique among Istanbul Airport lounges) and a complimentary massage service on weekdays.
- Istanbul Airport is truly enormous. If you have mobility issues or simply a lot of luggage, ask for a buggy transfer at Gate 11 when moving between the terminal and the metro — a free shuttle buggy operates for this purpose.
- Book YOTELAIR cabins well in advance if you have a long international layover in summer — during June to August the airside hotel sells out quickly, especially on peak travel days like Sundays.
- Download the Havaist app before you land and purchase a round-trip ticket — you get 40% off the return journey and it's valid for 30 days. This is the best deal for getting to/from Taksim.
- If flying Turkish Airlines and eligible for the Business Lounge or Miles & Smiles Lounge, arrive at the airport 30–45 minutes earlier than you normally would — the lounges are world-class and include private suites with showers. Allow time to enjoy them properly.
- Check your gate assignment carefully — some remote piers (D, E, F) can be a 15–20 minute walk or bus ride from the main concourse. Always build in extra walking time when heading to your gate.
- Exchanging money at the airport currency exchange counters — rates are 15–30% worse than city rates. Use the ATMs at the metro station instead, or wait until you reach the Grand Bazaar area or a city centre exchange office.
- Underestimating transit times between gates in the international terminal — the building is one of the largest on Earth. A connection under 1.5 hours can be genuinely stressful if your incoming flight is slightly late. Turkish Airlines minimum connection time at IST is typically 60–75 minutes, but longer is better.
- Trying to take a taxi without the meter running — always confirm the taximeter is activated before the driver starts moving. While most official airport taxis are reliable, a small number may attempt to quote inflated flat fares to tourists. Use the BiTaksi or Uber apps for price transparency and safety.