Ankara Esenboğa Airport (ESB)

Ankara Esenboğa Airport (ESB) serves as the premier international gateway to Turkey's capital city and acts as a critical hub for the national flag carrier, Turkish Airlines. Located approximately 28 kilometers northeast of Ankara, the airport is a vital node for government, diplomatic, and commercial travel. It has been developed into Turkish Airlines' third-largest hub, providing high-frequency domestic and international connections that complement the massive operations in Istanbul and provide a streamlined alternative for travelers transiting the Anatolian heartland. The airport's centerpiece is its award-winning unified terminal building, which spans over 182,000 square meters and was specifically designed to handle domestic and international traffic within a single, integrated complex. Opened in 2006, the terminal's architecture emphasizes flexible use and efficient passenger flow across three distinct levels. The ground level manages arrivals, the middle level is dedicated to departures with separate zones for international and domestic boarding, and the mezzanine level houses a variety of gourmet dining options and business facilities, all connected by a central atrium that floods the space with natural light. In January 2026, the airport reached a major operational milestone with the inauguration of a third independent runway and a state-of-the-art air traffic control tower. This significant expansion project has increased the facility's annual handling capacity from 20 million to over 30 million passengers, ensuring that Ankara remains prepared for the next decade of aviation growth. These technical upgrades, combined with an easy-to-understand taxiway system and expanded apron space, have significantly reduced taxi times and improved overall on-time performance for the airport's diverse range of carriers. Inside the terminal, passengers are provided with a world-class experience featuring extensive luxury retail and culinary offerings. The facility houses several premium lounges, including the Turkish Airlines CIP Lounges and the Primeclass Lounge, offering tranquil environments for business and leisure travelers. The ATU Duty Free area provides a wide selection of international brands, while the Tadında Anadolu restaurant offers authentic Turkish cuisine in a bazaar-style setting. With a planned metro connection to the city center and integrated ground transport links, ESB continues to set the standard for modern, efficient, and passenger-centric aviation infrastructure in the region.