Istanbul Atatürk International Airport: Everything You Need to Know
Istanbul Atatürk International Airport, formerly the city’s primary international hub, is situated on the European side of Istanbul, 28 kilometers southwest of the city center. While commercial passenger operations have transitioned to the new Istanbul Airport (IST), Atatürk continues to operate as a center for cargo, maintenance, and special charter flights. Its historical significance and strategic location make it a subject of interest for travelers exploring Istanbul’s transport history and infrastructure.
History and Significance of Atatürk Airport
Named after Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey, the airport has been a vital part of Istanbul’s aviation history since its opening in 1953. Until the opening of Istanbul Airport in 2019, Atatürk served as one of the busiest airports in Europe, handling over 68 million passengers in its peak year (2018). Known for its modern facilities and extensive connections, it was a key hub for Turkish Airlines, linking Istanbul to over 300 destinations worldwide.
Layout and Terminals
Atatürk Airport consists of three main terminals:
- Domestic Terminal: Previously served flights within Turkey, with direct connections to major cities such as Ankara, Izmir, and Antalya.
- International Terminal: A state-of-the-art facility that handled flights to Europe, the Americas, Asia, and the Middle East.
- Cargo Terminal: Dedicated to freight and cargo operations, which remain active today.
The terminals were well-connected, featuring spacious waiting areas, duty-free shops, and lounges to cater to both leisure and business travelers. The airport’s design prioritized efficiency, enabling passengers to navigate easily between check-in counters, security, and boarding gates.
Transportation to and from Atatürk Airport
Despite no longer serving regular passenger flights, understanding Atatürk’s transportation infrastructure offers insights into how Istanbul’s airports are connected to the city. The following modes of transport previously served the airport:
1. Metro
The M1 Metro Line connected Atatürk Airport directly to Aksaray Station in Istanbul’s European side. From there, passengers could transfer to other lines, such as:
- The T1 Tram Line to reach tourist areas like Sultanahmet and Eminönü.
- The Metrobus system for destinations farther afield.
The metro was an affordable option, with tickets costing around 2 TL per journey.
2. Shuttle Buses
Havataş operated shuttle buses that provided direct access to Taksim Square. These buses ran frequently, making stops at major transit hubs. The journey typically took 30–40 minutes and cost around 10 TL.
3. Taxis
Taxis offered a convenient way to reach the city center, especially for groups or those with heavy luggage. Fares ranged between 30–50 TL depending on the time of day and traffic conditions. To ensure safety and avoid overcharging, passengers were encouraged to use official taxis with meters.
4. Car Rentals
Several major car rental companies operated at Atatürk Airport, including Avis, Hertz, and Europcar. Renting a car was a popular choice for those planning to explore Istanbul’s outskirts or other cities in Turkey.
Nearby Attractions
Atatürk Airport’s location provided easy access to several notable attractions in Istanbul, including:
- Chora Church: Famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics, located 11.6 km away.
- Grand Bazaar: One of the largest and oldest covered markets in the world, just 13 km away.
- Topkapı Palace: The opulent former residence of Ottoman sultans, 14 km away.
Facilities and Services
During its operation as a commercial airport, Atatürk offered a wide range of amenities to enhance the passenger experience. These included:
- Duty-Free Shops: A vast selection of goods, including luxury brands and Turkish specialties.
- Restaurants and Cafes: Offering international and local cuisine.
- Lounges: Comfortable seating areas for business and first-class travelers.
- Wi-Fi: Available in designated areas throughout the terminals.
- Currency Exchange: ATMs and exchange offices for convenience.
Tips for Travelers
If you find yourself passing through Atatürk Airport for cargo or charter operations, here are a few tips:
- Plan Your Transport: Istanbul’s traffic can be unpredictable, so allocate extra time for your journey.
- Verify Routes: Since Atatürk no longer serves regular passenger flights, confirm that your intended transport services are operational.
- Carry Cash: Many local services, such as taxis or small vendors, may not accept cards.
- Book Transfers in Advance: Private transfer services can provide convenience and peace of mind.
Conclusion
Although Atatürk International Airport no longer functions as Istanbul’s main passenger hub, its legacy as a gateway to Turkey remains significant. With its state-of-the-art facilities and strategic location, it served millions of travelers annually and played a crucial role in shaping Istanbul’s connectivity. For travelers exploring Istanbul’s history and transport infrastructure, Atatürk remains a symbol of Turkey’s aviation heritage.
