Minimum Connection Time at Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST/LTBA)

Istanbul, Turkey

How Long Do I Need to Change Planes at Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST/LTBA)?

Answer: At Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST/LTBA) in Istanbul, Turkey, you need a minimum of 45 minutes for domestic connections and 90 minutes for international connections.

This is the official Minimum Connection Time (MCT) set by airlines and airport authorities. However, we recommend adding extra time during peak hours or for international transfers.

Standard MCT Table

Connection Type Minimum Time
Domestic to Domestic 45 minutes
Domestic to International 90 minutes
International to Domestic 90 minutes
International to International 90 minutes
Interline Transfer 120 minutes

Terminal Information

IST has 2 terminals (Domestic, International) connected by shuttle buses. Turkish Airlines operates from both terminals.

View terminal map

Airlines Operating at IST

Turkish Airlines
Pegasus Airlines
AtlasGlobal
Onur Air
SunExpress

Frequently Asked Questions: IST/LTBA Connection Times

How long do I need to change planes at IST/LTBA?

Answer: You need a minimum of 45 minutes for domestic connections and 90 minutes for international connections at Istanbul Atatürk Airport.

What's the minimum connection time at IST/LTBA?

Answer: The official minimum connection time at IST/LTBA is 45 minutes for domestic flights and 90 minutes for international flights.

How much time do I need to transfer at IST/LTBA?

Answer: For transfers at IST/LTBA, allow 45 minutes for domestic connections and 90 minutes for international connections. Add extra time during peak hours.

Can I make a 45-minute connection at IST/LTBA?

Answer: Yes, 45 minutes is the official minimum connection time for domestic flights at IST/LTBA, but we recommend adding extra time for comfort and to account for delays.

Connection Tips

IST is Turkish Airlines' main hub. Terminal transfers require re-security screening. Allow time for visa processing.

Frequent Traveler's Hot Tip

💡

Pro Tip for Istanbul Atatürk Airport (IST/LTBA)

Use the shuttle buses between terminals - they run every 15 minutes. The Turkish Airlines lounge has excellent Turkish food.

Nearby Airports

Other major airports in the Europe region:

Adana Şakirpaşa Airport

ADA

İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport

ADB

Adıyaman Airport

ADF

Ağrı Airport

AJI

Anadolu Airport

AOE

Busiest Airports in Turkey

Top 5 busiest airports in Turkey:

Adana Şakirpaşa Airport

ADA (LTAF)
Seyhan, Turkey
MCT: 40 min domestic, 75 min international

İzmir Adnan Menderes Airport

ADB (LTBJ)
İzmir, Turkey
MCT: 40 min domestic, 75 min international

Adıyaman Airport

ADF (LTCP)
Adıyaman, Turkey
MCT: 60 min domestic, 90 min international

Ağrı Airport

AJI (LTCO)
Ağrı, Turkey
MCT: 60 min domestic, 90 min international

Anadolu Airport

AOE (LTBY)
Eskişehir, Turkey
MCT: 60 min domestic, 90 min international

Google Maps Reviews & Ratings

3.8 (6540 reviews)

Airport Location

Istanbul Atatürk Airport is located at coordinates: 40.9826, 28.8204

Traveler Tools

Layover Planner: IST offers excellent shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
Missed Connection Help: Contact Turkish Airlines (primary carrier) or your specific airline.
Nearby Hotels: Find hotels near IST/LTBA
Flights from IST/LTBA: Search flights

Airport Comparison

Compare IST/LTBA with another airport: Comparison Tool

Airport Map

View IST/LTBA on the MCT World Map

Related Airports in Europe

Important Notes