Overview of Istanbul Atatürk Airport
Istanbul Atatürk Airport, located on the European side of Istanbul, was the main international airport serving Istanbul until its closure in 2019. It was named after Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder and first president of Turkey.
The airport had two terminals: the international terminal and the domestic terminal. The international terminal was further subdivided into four concourses, A, B, C, and D, while the domestic terminal had two concourses, H and G.
At its peak, the airport was one of the busiest airports in Europe, handling over 60 million passengers annually. It served as a hub for Turkish Airlines, which offered flights to over 300 destinations worldwide.
The airport was known for its modern facilities and services, including duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, and car rental facilities. It also had a hotel, meeting rooms, and a VIP terminal for private flights.
However, the airport faced several challenges, such as congestion and delays due to its limited capacity and outdated infrastructure. To address these issues, a new airport, Istanbul Airport, was built in the northern part of the city, which replaced Istanbul Atatürk Airport as the main international airport.
Today, Istanbul Atatürk Airport is no longer operational, and its terminals are undergoing renovation and repurposing as a cultural and commercial center. Despite this, the legacy of the airport remains significant, as it played a crucial role in connecting Istanbul to the rest of the world for many decades.
Terminals at Istanbul Atatürk Airport
Istanbul Atatürk Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving millions of passengers every year. The airport has two main terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, which are connected by a free shuttle bus service.
Terminal 1 is the oldest terminal at the airport and primarily serves domestic flights. It is divided into two parts, the main building, and the domestic terminal extension. The main building has three floors with the ground floor serving arrivals and baggage claim, the first floor serving departures, and the second floor serving airline offices and lounges. The domestic terminal extension, on the other hand, has four levels and is used exclusively for domestic flights.
Terminal 2, also known as the international terminal, is larger and more modern than Terminal 1. It serves all international flights and some domestic flights as well. The terminal has four levels, with the ground floor serving arrivals, the first floor serving check-in counters and departures, the second floor serving airline lounges, and the third floor being used for offices and duty-free shops.
Both terminals have a wide range of facilities and services available to passengers, including restaurants, cafes, shops, ATMs, currency exchange, and duty-free shopping. Passengers can also use the airport’s free Wi-Fi service throughout both terminals.
Overall, the terminals at Istanbul Atatürk Airport are well-organized, efficient, and offer a comfortable experience for passengers. Despite its size and high volume of traffic, the airport has managed to maintain a high level of service and continues to improve its facilities to meet the needs of its passengers.
Airlines and Destinations
Turkish Airlines is the main carrier at Istanbul Atatürk Airport, with domestic flights to cities such as Ankara, Izmir, Antalya, and Bodrum.
They also offer international routes to major cities in Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America, including London, Paris, Amsterdam, Moscow, Dubai, New York, and Beijing.
Other airlines that operate from the airport include Pegasus Airlines, AtlasGlobal, Onur Air, and SunExpress, among others.
Pegasus Airlines offers domestic flights to popular tourist destinations like Dalaman, Gaziantep, and Van, as well as international routes to cities like Berlin, Vienna, and Tel Aviv.
AtlasGlobal has flights to several international destinations including London, Paris, Amsterdam, and Moscow.
Onur Air provides domestic flights within Turkey to cities such as Gaziantep, Adana, Trabzon, and Diyarbakir while SunExpress offers seasonal flights to popular holiday spots like Antalya, Bodrum, and Dalaman.
Transportation Options at Istanbul Atatürk Airport
Istanbul Atatürk Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving millions of passengers every year. With so many people coming and going, it’s important to have reliable transportation options. Fortunately, there are several choices available for getting to and from the airport.
One popular option is the airport shuttle, which provides a convenient and affordable way to get to your destination. The shuttle operates 24 hours a day and runs between the airport and various locations around the city. It’s a great option for those who don’t want to deal with the hassle of public transportation or driving in the busy city traffic.
Another option is to rent a car at the airport. This gives you the flexibility to explore the city at your own pace and on your own schedule. There are several car rental companies located within the airport terminal, making it easy to find the right vehicle for your needs.
If you prefer public transportation, there are several shuttle bus lines that run between the airport and various parts of the city. These buses are operated by local transportation companies and offer an affordable alternative to taxis or rental cars. They also provide a great way to see some of the sights along the way.
For those who want to travel by train, there are several train lines that serve the airport. The M1A and M1B subway lines connect the airport with the city center, while the Havaist train line provides a direct connection to other parts of Istanbul.
Overall, there are plenty of transportation options available at Istanbul Atatürk Airport, no matter where you’re headed or how you prefer to travel. Whether you choose the shuttle, car rental, shuttle bus, or train lines, you can rest assured that you’ll be able to get to your destination safely and efficiently. So next time you’re traveling through Istanbul, be sure to take advantage of these convenient transportation options.
Parking Options at Istanbul Ataturk Airport
Istanbul Ataturk Airport offers multiple parking options for travelers, whether they need short-term or long-term parking. For those looking for a convenient and quick option, the airport has an outdoor car park located directly in front of the terminal building.
The outdoor car park offers hourly, daily, and weekly rates, making it a great option for those dropping off or picking up passengers. Rates start at 15 Turkish lira per hour and go up to 90 Turkish lira per day.
For travelers who need longer term parking, there are two different covered car parks available. The multi-story car park and the CIP car park both offer 24-hour security and regular shuttle services to the terminal building. Rates for the multi-story car park start at 25 Turkish lira per day, with discounts available for weekly and monthly parking.
Rates for the CIP car park vary depending on the type of service selected, but typically start at around 50 Turkish lira per day. All car parks at Istanbul Ataturk Airport accept both cash and credit card payments. With multiple parking options available, travelers are sure to find the perfect solution for their parking needs at Istanbul Ataturk Airport.
Check-In Procedures:
The check-in process at Istanbul Atatürk Airport offers various methods for the convenience of passengers. Online check-in is available 24 hours before departure, allowing travelers to select their seats and print their boarding passes from home or work.
Self-service kiosks are also available at the airport, allowing passengers to check themselves in and print their boarding passes without the need for assistance. These kiosks are located throughout the terminal and are easily accessible. Traditional check-in counters are also available for those who prefer the personal touch of a customer service agent.
Passengers should arrive at least two hours before their flight departure time to ensure ample time for check-in and security procedures. It is recommended that passengers bring their passports, visas (if required), and any necessary travel documentation with them to the airport for a smooth check-in process.
Once checked in, passengers can proceed to the security checkpoint where they will go through a metal detector and have their carry-on bags screened. Boarding gates are located in the departures area and each gate is clearly marked with the airline and flight number.
Overall, the check-in process at Istanbul Atatürk Airport is efficient and offers multiple options for passengers to choose from based on their preferences and needs. Whether checking in online, using a self-service kiosk, or a traditional counter, the airport strives to make the experience as seamless as possible for all passengers.
Security Measures and Tips at Istanbul Ataturk Airport
At Istanbul Ataturk Airport, there are strict security measures in place to ensure the safety of passengers. Passengers may be required to go through multiple security checkpoints during their journey.
Before entering the security checkpoint, passengers must remove all metal objects from their pockets and put them in a tray. Electronics such as laptops and tablets must also be removed from bags and placed in a separate tray.
Passengers may also be subjected to a body search and have their carry-on bags thoroughly inspected. It is recommended to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare to avoid any delays during the security check process.
To make the security check process smoother, passengers should dress comfortably and wear slip-on shoes that can be easily removed and put back on. It is also advisable to pack liquids and gels in a clear plastic bag and separately from other items in your carry-on bag.
By following these tips and being prepared for security measures, passengers can ensure a safe and efficient travel experience at Istanbul Ataturk Airport.
Customs and Immigration at Istanbul Atatürk Airport
Arriving passengers will need to complete a customs declaration form, which includes information about any items they are bringing into the country.
Passengers will then proceed to the immigration desks, where their passport and visa (if required) will be checked.
After clearing immigrations, passengers will collect their luggage from the baggage claim area and exit the airport.
Departing passengers must present their passport and boarding pass at the check-in desk and complete any necessary procedures for their airline.
They will then proceed through security checks before reaching the departure gates.
It is important to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare to allow for any unexpected delays or queues at customs and immigration.
Amenities
- Restaurants and cafes serving a variety of cuisines
- Shops offering duty-free goods, souvenirs, and clothing
- Banks, ATMs, and currency exchange services
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the airport
- Showers and lounges for travelers with long layovers
- Children’s play areas and baby changing facilities
- Pharmacies and medical facilities
- Meeting rooms and conference facilities
- Prayer rooms for Muslims
Accessibility Services
İstanbul Atatürk Airport provides a range of facilities and services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues. There are designated parking areas close to the terminal entrance, as well as reserved spots inside the parking garage. Wheelchair ramps can be found throughout the airport, and elevators are available for access to upper levels.
Assistance is also available for boarding and deplaning, with trained staff members ready to help passengers with mobility devices or those who have difficulty walking. The airport offers accessible toilets and changing rooms, as well as prayer rooms and lounges equipped with special features for those with hearing or visual impairments.
Connecting Flights at İstanbul Atatürk Airport
Connecting flights can be stressful, especially if you are unfamiliar with the airport. At İstanbul Atatürk Airport, there are some tips to help you make your connection smoothly.
First, check the flight information displays for your departure gate and terminal. Then, follow the signs to the correct gate or terminal. Be sure to allow enough time between your flights to clear security and immigration if necessary.
If you need assistance or have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask an airport staff member or customer service representative. They will be able to guide you in the right direction and provide any necessary information.
Finally, it’s always a good idea to pack light and keep essential items in your carry-on bag in case of any unexpected delays or lost luggage. With these tips in mind, catching your connecting flight at İstanbul Atatürk Airport should be a breeze.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
Once you arrive at Istanbul Atatürk Airport, follow the signs to baggage claim. You will need to provide your baggage claim tags to receive your checked luggage.
If your luggage is not at the baggage claim area, proceed to the lost and found office to report your missing baggage. You will need to fill out a form with your personal information and luggage details.
If you notice any damage to your luggage, report it to the airline’s representative before leaving the baggage claim area. They will provide you with a form to fill out and instructions on how to proceed with the claim.
It is important to keep your baggage claim tags and check your luggage before leaving the airport to ensure everything is accounted for. If you realize you have lost an item after leaving the airport, contact the lost and found office as soon as possible to report it.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
İstanbul Atatürk Airport has an emergency response team that is available 24/7. In case of an emergency, passengers can call for medical assistance by dialing the emergency number from any payphone or mobile phone.
The airport also has a fully equipped medical center, staffed with trained doctors and nurses, providing primary medical care services to passengers free of charge. This medical facility is open every day, 24 hours a day, and can provide first aid treatments and stabilize patients before transferring them to a hospital.
Additionally, the airport has an ambulance service that can transport patients to hospitals in the city. The ambulance service is available around the clock and can be called for emergencies through the emergency number. There are also defibrillators located throughout the terminal for emergencies.
Overall, İstanbul Atatürk Airport is well-equipped to handle any emergency medical situation that may occur, ensuring that passengers’ safety and well-being are a top priority.
Hotel Accommodations
For those who require a place to rest their head after a long flight, there are several hotel accommodations available within the vicinity of İstanbul Atatürk Airport. These hotels offer comfortable lodgings and convenient access to the airport for travelers.
1. Istanbul Gonen Hotel – located just 1.5 km from the airport
2. WOW Airport Hotel – located 2.4 km from the airport
3. Courtyard by Marriott Istanbul International Airport – located 2.8 km from the airport
4. Rox Hotel Airport – located 3.1 km from the airport
5. Titanic Business Bayrampasa – located 9.4 km from the airport
Each of these hotels offers a range of amenities, such as free Wi-Fi, airport shuttle service, fitness centers, and on-site restaurants. Whether you’re in İstanbul for a short layover or an extended stay, these hotel accommodations near İstanbul Atatürk Airport provide a convenient and comfortable option for travelers.
Useful Tips for Navigating and Enjoying İstanbul Atatürk Airport
– Plan ahead and arrive at the airport with plenty of time.
– Choose your transportation method wisely – public transportation, taxi, or shuttle.
– Research the layout of the airport before your trip to save time.
– Take advantage of the airport’s complimentary Wi-Fi.
– Grab a quick snack or meal from one of the many cafes and restaurants.
– Relax and unwind at one of the airport lounges.
– Shop for souvenirs or duty-free items before your flight.
– Stay hydrated and keep hand sanitizer handy during your travels.
Contact Information
– Airport Information: +90 212 465 5555
– Lost and Found: +90 212 463 3000
– Baggage Services: +90 212 463 3696
– Customer Relations: +90 212 463 3000
– Medical Center: +90 212 463 3434 ext. 3293
For more information, visit the airport’s official website at www.ataturkairport.com.
Airports Near İstanbul Atatürk Airport
For travelers considering alternative flight options or those with layovers and connecting flights, there are several other airports near İstanbul Atatürk Airport:
- Sabiha Gökçen International Airport – located 49.3 kilometers southeast of İstanbul Atatürk Airport, it is accessible by bus, taxi, or shuttle service.
- İstanbul New Airport – located 37.6 kilometers north of İstanbul Atatürk Airport, it is accessible by taxi or shuttle service.
- Kocaeli Cengiz Topel Airport – located 109.6 kilometers east of İstanbul Atatürk Airport, it is accessible by rental car or taxi.
Each airport offers different airlines and flight options, so consider your travel needs and preferences before choosing which airport to fly into or out of.