⏰ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic → Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic → International
90
minutes
International → Domestic
90
minutes
International → International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
🏢 Terminal Information
Istanbul Airport operates from one massive terminal building with 1,440,000 m² floor space, making it the world's third-largest airport terminal. The terminal is divided into five concourses: A, B, D, and F handle international flights, while pier G and three areas of pier F serve domestic flights. Each concourse has 8-17 gates, with walking times from central terminal to the furthest gates (A11, B15, D17, F16, G11) requiring 15-20 minutes due to the terminal's enormous scale. Moving walkways are available but insufficient for the distances involved, requiring passengers to arrive 2.5-3 hours before flights.
Security processing features separate checkpoints for domestic and international flights, staffed by 3,500 security personnel and 750 immigration officers providing comprehensive processing capabilities. Immigration and passport controls are located in both arrivals and departures areas with clear directional signage. Turkish Airlines operates this as their primary hub with over 50 airlines serving 122 countries, making it a major transcontinental connection point between Europe, Asia, and beyond.
The terminal houses five 24-hour lounges including three Turkish Airlines lounges (Domestic, International, and Business), plus IGA Lounge and SkyTeam Lounge. Dining and shopping options include over 100 establishments ranging from local Turkish cuisine at Simit Sarayi to international brands like Burger King and Starbucks, plus extensive duty-free shopping featuring clothing, electronics, and Turkish specialties. Family facilities include dedicated check-in areas in aisle K, children's play areas in the CIP Lounge, nursing rooms, and complimentary buggy services for families with children 0-2, expectant mothers, and passengers over 65. The airport opened in 2019 as Turkey's new aviation flagship, replacing the older Atatürk Airport as Istanbul's primary international gateway.
🔄 Connection Tips
IST is Turkish Airlines' main hub. Terminal transfers require re-security screening. Allow time for visa processing.
⏰ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic → Domestic
60
minutes
Domestic → International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
🏢 Terminal Information
Ağrı Airport (AJI) serves the city of Ağrı in eastern Türkiye with a single passenger terminal handling domestic services. The landside hall contains airline check‑in counters and baggage drop; after security, passengers enter a small departures lounge for ground‑level boarding. Arrivals proceed to baggage claim and exit to the forecourt.\n\nThe layout is compact and walkable. From curb/parking to check‑in is typically 2–3 minutes. From security to boarding gates is about 3–5 minutes; remote stands may require a brief bus ride. There are no inter‑terminal transfers.\n\nSecurity screening follows Turkish civil aviation standards. The airport handles domestic flights only; immigration and customs formalities for international itineraries occur at larger hubs. Winter weather can drive de‑icing and runway‑clearing delays—allow buffer time.\n\nAmenities include restrooms, seating, snack kiosks, limited retail, ATMs, and car‑rental desks. Wi‑Fi availability can vary. Taxis and pre‑arranged cars serve the city center; parking is directly in front of the terminal.\n\nAccessibility is supported via step‑free routes and accessible restrooms; wheelchair assistance can be arranged through airlines. Family facilities are modest—plan for children’s snacks and activities during winter peak periods.
🔄 Connection Tips
Allow adequate time for connections. Check with airline for specific requirements.
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