Overview of Kars Airport
Kars Airport is a regional airport located in the city of Kars, Turkey. It serves as the main gateway for visitors to the city and surrounding region. The airport is operated by TAV Airports, which also operates several other airports in Turkey.
Kars Airport has a single terminal building, which offers a range of amenities for visitors, including duty-free shops, restaurants, and cafes. The airport handles both domestic and international flights, with regular scheduled services to Istanbul and Ankara, as well as seasonal charter flights to popular holiday destinations throughout Europe.
The airport is small in comparison to many other international airports, but it is modern and well-equipped, with state-of-the-art facilities for passengers and cargo. Additionally, the airport is strategically located near several major highways, making it easy to access from surrounding cities and towns.
Despite its small size, Kars Airport is an important hub for regional travel and plays a vital role in connecting the city of Kars to the rest of Turkey and the wider world. Whether you are traveling for business or pleasure, Kars Airport provides a convenient and efficient way to reach this beautiful and historic part of Turkey.
Terminals at Kars Airport
Kars Airport is a small domestic airport located in the eastern Turkish province of Kars. It has only one terminal building that operates for both domestic and international flights. This terminal is equipped with modern facilities and amenities to cater to the needs of passengers.
The terminal covers a total area of 5,000 square meters, and it has a capacity of serving approximately one million passengers per year. The building has two levels, with several check-in counters, security gates, and boarding gates located on both floors. There are also several shops, cafes, and restaurants situated throughout the terminal, providing passengers with various options for dining and shopping.
The airport’s arrival hall is located on the ground floor, where passengers can find baggage carousels, currency exchange offices, and rental car companies. Additionally, there are also prayer rooms and a medical center accessible for passengers who may need them. The boarding gates for domestic and international flights are located on the upper floor, which can be accessed via escalators or elevators.
The airport’s terminal building features modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, charging points for electronic devices, and comfortable seating areas. There is also a VIP lounge available for passengers who want to enjoy additional comfort and services. The lounge offers complimentary drinks and snacks, comfortable seating areas, shower facilities, and premium services such as fast-track immigration and security clearance.
In conclusion, the terminal building of Kars Airport is well-equipped to meet the needs of passengers traveling through the airport. It offers modern facilities, comfortable seating areas, and various dining and shopping options. Additionally, the airport’s VIP lounge provides premium services for travelers who want an extra level of comfort and convenience.
Airlines and Destinations
The following airlines operate from Kars Airport:
Turkish Airlines, with domestic flights to Istanbul and Ankara and international flights to Frankfurt and Vienna.
Pegasus Airlines, with domestic flights to Istanbul and international flights to Cologne, Dusseldorf, and Stuttgart.
AnadoluJet, with domestic flights to Istanbul and Ankara.
Ukraine International Airlines, with seasonal international flights to Kiev.
All flights are subject to change and it is recommended to check with the airline for up-to-date information on destinations and schedules.
Transportation Options at Kars Airport
Kars Airport, also known as Kars Harakani Airport, is a small airport in eastern Turkey that serves the city of Kars and its surrounding region. Despite its size, the airport has several transportation options for travelers to choose from.
One of the most popular transportation options from Kars Airport is the shuttle. Several shuttle companies offer services to and from the airport, with rates varying depending on the distance. These shuttles can take passengers to nearby towns and cities such as Ardahan and Erzurum.
For those who prefer to drive themselves, there are several car rental companies located inside the airport terminal. These companies offer a wide range of vehicles, from economy cars to luxury SUVs, and provide customers with easy access to the surrounding areas.
Another option for transportation from Kars Airport is the shuttle bus. This service runs on a set schedule and takes passengers to and from the city center. The cost of the shuttle bus is typically lower than that of a taxi or private car service, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers.
If you prefer public transportation, there are several train lines that run through Kars. The train station is located just a few kilometers from the airport, and trains run daily between Kars and other cities in Turkey. However, keep in mind that train travel in Turkey can be slow and sometimes unreliable.
Finally, for those who value convenience and comfort above all else, there are several private car services available at Kars Airport. These services offer luxury vehicles and professional drivers who can take you directly to your destination, making them a great choice for business travelers or those who want to avoid the hassle of navigating public transportation.
In conclusion, Kars Airport offers a variety of transportation options for travelers, from shuttles and car rentals to shuttle buses and private car services. Whether you’re visiting Kars for business or pleasure, you’re sure to find a transportation option that suits your needs and budget.
Parking Options at Kars Airport
Kars Airport offers convenient and affordable parking options for passengers. There are two parking lots available: the short-term parking lot and the long-term parking lot.
The short-term parking lot is located directly in front of the terminal building, making it a convenient option for those who need to park for only a few hours. The rate for short-term parking is 6 TL per hour.
For those who need to park for an extended period, the long-term parking lot is a better choice. It is located just a short walk from the terminal building and offers a lower daily rate than the short-term lot. The rate for long-term parking is 30 TL per day.
Both parking lots are equipped with security cameras and are monitored by airport staff to ensure the safety of vehicles parked there. Payments can be made at the payment kiosks located in both lots or at the exit booth when leaving.
Passengers are advised to arrive early to allow sufficient time to park and get to their flights on time.
Check-In Procedures
At Kars Airport, passengers have three options for check-in: online, self-service kiosks, and traditional counter check-in. The online check-in option is available 48 hours before the scheduled departure time until 90 minutes before the flight. Passengers can do the online check-in by visiting the airline’s website, entering their booking reference number, and selecting a seat.
Self-service kiosks are located in the airport terminal, where passengers can check-in, print their boarding passes, and choose their seats. The kiosks are available 24 hours before the scheduled departure time until 45 minutes before the flight. After completing the check-in process at the kiosk, passengers can proceed to the baggage drop-off counter to check-in their luggage.
For those who prefer a more traditional method, counter check-in is also available at Kars Airport. The counters are staffed by airline representatives who will assist passengers with the check-in process, provide boarding passes, and check-in their luggage. Counter check-in opens two hours before the scheduled departure time and closes 45 minutes before the flight.
Regardless of the check-in method chosen, passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least two hours before their flight departure time to allow enough time for security clearance, baggage drop-off, and boarding procedures. Additionally, passengers should have all the required documents and identification ready for the check-in process to avoid any delays or issues.
Security Measures at Kars Airport and Tips for a Smooth Security Check
At Kars Airport, security is taken seriously to ensure the safety of all passengers. Before entering the airport, make sure to remove any prohibited items from your luggage and carry-on bags, such as sharp objects, firearms, and flammable materials.
During the security check, you will be required to place all your belongings in the x-ray machine, including your shoes, jackets, and electronic devices. Liquids should be kept in a clear plastic bag and must not exceed 100ml.
It is recommended that you arrive at least two hours before your flight to allow enough time for the security check and any possible delays. Avoid wearing excessive metal accessories like belts, jewelry, and watches, as they may trigger the metal detector and cause delays.
If you have any questions or concerns about the security procedures, do not hesitate to ask the airport staff. Remember to stay calm and cooperative during the screening process to avoid any unnecessary delays and make sure you have a smooth and stress-free journey.
Customs and Immigration
Upon arriving at Kars Airport, passengers must present their passport and any necessary visas to immigration officials. Once cleared by immigration, passengers proceed to the baggage claim area to retrieve their luggage.
After collecting their bags, passengers then pass through customs where they may be subject to inspection of their belongings. It is important to declare any items that may be prohibited or require payment of duty.
When departing from Kars Airport, passengers must check-in with their airline and present their passport and travel documents. They will then proceed through security screening before reaching the departure gate.
Passengers should ensure they have allowed enough time to complete all necessary procedures before their flight. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to departure for domestic flights and three hours for international flights.
Amenities at Kars Airport:
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the airport
- Multiple lounges with comfortable seating, including a VIP lounge
- Shops offering souvenirs, gifts, and duty-free items
- Several restaurants and cafes serving both local and international cuisine
- A currency exchange and ATM machines for banking needs
- Luggage storage facilities for travelers needing to drop off bags
- A prayer room for religious observances
- Information desk with friendly staff available for any questions or concerns
Accessibility Services
Kars Airport offers various facilities and services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues.
There are wheelchair ramps, disabled parking spaces, and accessible toilets throughout the airport.
Passengers can also request assistance from trained staff members who can help them navigate the airport and board their flights.
The airport also provides special equipment, such as wheelchairs and mobility scooters, upon request.
Additionally, there are designated seating areas and priority boarding options available for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues.
Connecting Flights at Kars Airport
If you have a connecting flight at Kars Airport, it is important to know the process for catching your next flight.
Firstly, upon arrival, follow the signs marked “Transit” and proceed to your departure gate.
Be sure to check that your gate has not changed since you last checked.
If you have time, grab a bite to eat or use the restroom before boarding your next flight.
When your next flight is announced, head to your gate and present your boarding pass.
If you are cutting it close on time, speak to a representative for information on how to expedite the process.
Make sure to arrive early and be aware of any changes to your flight schedule.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
When you arrive at Kars Airport, proceed to the baggage claim area to collect your luggage. Look for the baggage carousel assigned for your flight number.
If you can’t locate your luggage, report it to the Lost and Found office located in the baggage claim area. You’ll need to provide your baggage claim tags and details of your flight.
If your luggage is damaged, report it to an airline representative at the baggage claim area. They will provide you with instructions on how to file a claim and how to get compensation for damages.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of an emergency at Kars Airport, there are qualified medical personnel who are available 24/7 to provide assistance. The airport also has a fully equipped medical center that is staffed with doctors and nurses.
Furthermore, the airport has a range of emergency response services in place to deal with any situation that may arise. These include fire-fighting equipment, ambulance services, and the ability to call for additional support if necessary.
Passengers with medical conditions are advised to inform the airline prior to their flight, so that appropriate arrangements can be made. The airport also has wheelchair access and special assistance facilities available for passengers with reduced mobility or other disabilities.
Hotel Accommodations
Within or near Kars Airport, there are several hotels available for travelers to choose from.
Some of the hotels include the following:
- DoubleTree by Hilton Kars – 3.2 km away from the airport
- Snow Hotel – 4.4 km away from the airport
- Hotel Kent Ani – 5.3 km away from the airport
- Hotel Temel – 6.3 km away from the airport
- Kars Park Hotel – 6.9 km away from the airport
These hotels provide comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, and great amenities to make travelers’ stay as enjoyable as possible.
Useful Tips:
– Arrive at Kars Airport at least two hours before your flight’s departure time to account for potential delays and long lines at security checkpoints.
– To save time, check in online and print your boarding pass before arriving at the airport.
– Make sure to pack your belongings in accordance with TSA regulations to avoid any issues during the security screening process.
– Consider bringing a reusable water bottle to fill up after passing through security, as purchasing bottled water at the airport can be expensive.
– If you have some time to spare before your flight, grab a bite to eat at one of the airport’s restaurants or cafes, or browse through the duty-free shops for some last-minute souvenirs.
Contact Information
- General inquiry: +90 474 551 10 00
- Lost and found: +90 474 551 10 00 ext. 1777
- Baggage claim: +90 474 551 10 00 ext. 1743
- Flight information: +90 474 551 10 00 ext. 1965
- Parking: +90 474 551 10 00 ext. 1974
- Customer service: +90 474 551 10 00 ext. 1716 or [email protected]
Airports Near Kars Airport:
There are other airports in the vicinity of Kars Airport, including:
- Ardahan Airport (103 km) – reachable by taking a taxi or renting a car.
- Erzurum Airport (210 km) – reachable by taking a bus, train, taxi, or renting a car.
- Van Ferit Melen Airport (450 km) – reachable by taking a bus, taxi, or renting a car.
Travelers may consider these alternative flight options for their convenience, time, and budget. Nevertheless, it is recommended to check the flight schedules and connections, as well as the ground transportation options, to plan the trip accordingly.