After months of anticipation, the new Istanbul Airport has finally opened its doors for service, leaving behind the inconveniences of the small, outdated predecessor. This grand airport boasts a single, sprawling terminal building, making it the largest in the world. Five piers extend from different sections of the terminal, with four dedicated to international travelers and one catering to domestic passengers.
Viewed from above, the airport takes the shape of an ‘H’, while its interior surprises with a stunning work of art. The airport’s design features wavy ceilings and spacious gaps between gates, offering travelers a comfortable and airy experience. The high-end stores within the terminal create an atmosphere that might make you forget you’re in an airport at all.
While the airport is now open to the public, some sections are still undergoing development. The government prioritized getting the terminal operational to avoid further delays, and the ongoing work mainly involves completing shops and eateries. Although some travelers might find the airport’s current state slightly frustrating, it already surpasses its predecessor in numerous ways, making it worth the visit.
Location and Contact Information:
The new IST Airport is strategically located in the northwest part of central Istanbul, in the Areavutkoy District, near the scenic Black Sea shoreline. For inquiries, you can contact the airport at +90 444 1 442 or visit their official website at istairport.com. The airport is approximately 53 KM from Avcilar, 42 KM from Bakrikoy, 41 KM from Besiktas, and 85 KM from Sabiha Gokcen Airport. On average, the distance from the airport to central parts of Istanbul is 45 KM.
Concourses:
The airport’s five piers form different concourses, labeled from A to G (excluding E). All concourses, except G, serve international travel. Concourse G is situated on the southeast side of the airport.
Security and Gate Transit:
Istanbul Airport is equipped with one security checkpoint for local passengers and another for those in transit. However, this setup may cause delays and requires transiting passengers to pass through security before reaching their gates, even if they are closer to their arrival location. For gate transit, passengers must either walk or use moving walkways, as there is no dedicated transit system. Staff members can sometimes be seen using Segways for efficient mobility. Travelers are advised to allocate at least 2.5 hours to pass through security and reach their gates, especially during peak hours. If you plan to dine or relax in a restaurant or lounge, consider adding an extra hour to your schedule.
Gates and Services:
IST Airport’s gates are spacious and well-marked, featuring large windows for a view of the tarmac. Additional seating is available throughout the terminal, providing convenience and comfort. The airport offers a wide range of services, including lounges, food, retail stores, luggage storage, nursing rooms, showers, meeting points, and duty-free shopping. There is also a car rental facility on-site.
Air Providers:
Turkish Airlines is the primary air provider at IST, operating numerous flights and offering a variety of options and transfers. Additionally, over 50 other airlines operate from the airport, including Air Canada, United Airlines, American Airlines, British Airways, and JAL/Japan Airlines, among others.
Lounges at IST:
Istanbul Airport currently houses five lounges, all open 24/7. These include the Turkish Airlines Lounge Domestic, Turkish Airlines Lounge Miles and Smiles, Turkish Airlines Business Lounge, IGA Lounge, and SkyTeam Lounge. Each lounge provides a range of amenities, such as snacks, showers, WiFi, television, and play areas.
COVID Testing and Hotels:
For travelers requiring a PCR COVID test, Biotest, located on the Arrivals floor at exit gate number 14, offers testing services. Two YotelAir hotels are available at the airport, providing convenient accommodations without the need for a visa. Sleep pods are also scattered throughout the terminal, offering hourly rental options for quick rest periods.
Future Plans:
Despite being considered one of Europe’s finest airports and the world’s largest, Istanbul Airport has ambitious plans for the future. Expansion projects include additional runways and terminals, with the aim of accommodating between 150 and 200 million passengers by 2027. Four phases of construction are planned, with phase three introducing a new terminal building and runway, and the final phase including another runway and potential satellite terminals. These enhancements will further elevate the airport’s already impressive facilities, although many travelers would appreciate the adoption of a transit option to facilitate gate access.