Istanbul New Airport (IST)is one of the largest and most important airports in the world, serving as a vital hub connecting three continents: Europe, Asia, and Africa. With its strategic location, the airport has become the ideal choice for travelers from all over the world, transforming it from just an airport into a global aviation center.
Thanks to its multiple international destinations, Istanbul is easily accessible from anywhere in the world. No matter which continent you're on, Istanbul Airport will place you at the heart of one of the world's leading travel destinations.
Everything you need to know about Istanbul New Airport (IST):
Istanbul New Airport, also known as "İstanbul Havalimanı" (IATA code: IST), is a massive project designed to make Istanbul a global aviation hub.
Location: The airport is located in the Arnavutköy area, northwest of Istanbul, near the Black Sea, making it a point of connection between Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Opening Date: The airport opened partially on October 29, 2018, with full operations beginning on April 6, 2019.
Area: The airport spans 7,650 hectares, making it one of the largest airports in the world in terms of area.
Capacity: In its first phase, the airport can accommodate 90 million passengers annually. As future phases are completed, the capacity is expected to reach 200 million passengers per year.
Runways: The airport currently has three independent runways with appropriate distances and space, with plans to add more in the future, increasing the total to six runways.
Modern Navigation Systems: The airport is equipped with the latest air navigation technologies, including the "Triple Runway Operations" system, allowing simultaneous takeoffs and landings on three independent runways, which enhances operational efficiency and reduces delays.
Global Destinations: The airport serves more than 350 domestic and international destinations, making it one of the most connected airports in the world.
In short, Istanbul New Airport is a modern landmark reflecting Turkey's ambition to become a global aviation center, offering a comfortable and advanced travel experience for passengers worldwide.
Istanbul Airport: Shopping, Dining, Resting, and Entertainment
Istanbul Airport is not only a transportation hub but also provides a luxurious experience for travelers with its advanced facilities and excellent services. The airport houses a series of upscale cafes and restaurants offering both local and international cuisine, along with luxury shopping outlets featuring global brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Hermes.
Additionally, the airport offers duty-free shopping at its large store, providing a variety of products such as clothing, perfumes, electronics, and jewelry. This shopping experience provides a great opportunity for travelers to purchase high-quality items at discounted prices.
The airport also features VIP lounges equipped with all comforts and amenities, making waiting time pleasant and comfortable. Furthermore, luxurious hotels within the airport provide accommodation for travelers in need of rest during transit. All these services make Istanbul New Airport not just a place for travel but a destination offering exceptional comfort for travelers of all categories.
How to Reach Istanbul Airport?
Getting to Istanbul Airport is easy and convenient from anywhere in the city. The airport is about 45 minutes from Taksim Square, and you can access it via three main routes:
By car or taxi: You can reach the airport using your private car or a taxi, with a dedicated parking garage inside the airport. Taxi services are available 24/7 for transporting passengers to and from the airport.
Havaist buses: Havaist provides shuttle services from the airport to various parts of Istanbul. Bus stations are spread across major districts of the city, and the buses offer ample space for luggage and comfort for travelers.
Metro (M11): The M11 metro line directly connects Kağıthane to the airport. The line is 34 km long and includes 8 main stations, taking around 24 minutes to reach the airport.
Achievements and Records Setting Istanbul New Airport at the Forefront
Since its opening, Istanbul New Airport has achieved several records, placing it among the leading global airports. It is one of the largest airports in the world in terms of area and boasts tremendous capacity.
The airport has earned numerous international awards in recognition of its excellence in services and facilities. In 2020, it was ranked as the best airport in Europe by AirlineRatings.com, and it won the Global Traveler Award for Best Airport in the World. Additionally, it was awarded the Best Airport for Service by Skytrax, a global airport ranking reference.
One significant record the airport achieved is handling a record number of flights in a single day, managing air traffic efficiently and effectively, allowing it to achieve the highest number of flights in a short period. The "Triple Runway Operations" system contributes to increasing operational efficiency and reducing delays.
FGI TRAVEL offers airport pickup and drop-off services at Istanbul Airport. Upon arrival, a professional driver will be waiting for you at the arrival gate with a name sign, handling everything from luggage to direct transportation to your accommodation or destination. For departures, the driver will transport you from your accommodation to the airport on time to ensure you don’t miss your flight.
The service is available for solo travelers, families, or large groups, with a variety of vehicles available to meet everyone's needs, from small cars for individuals to minivans for groups. The service is characterized by comfort and safety, with all drivers well-trained, familiar with local routes, and able to communicate in Arabic, and the vehicles are equipped with the latest navigation technologies.
This service allows you to save time and effort, as all details are pre-coordinated to avoid any logistical issues.
Istanbul New Airport is not just a connection point between continents but a complete experience that combines comfort, luxury, and modern technology. With its advanced facilities and exceptional services, the airport provides passengers with an unparalleled travel experience, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey from the first moment.