Turkey’s national flag carrier, Turkish Airlines, is one of the largest carriers in the world. It offers flights to over 300 destinations in more than 100 countries, with the majority of flights leaving from its two primary airports: Istanbul Ataturk Airport and Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport. Both airports are located on the European side of Istanbul.
Istanbul Ataturk Airport is the largest and oldest of the two airports, located just outside the city center. It is an international hub and the main hub of Turkish Airlines, handling approximately 51 million passengers a year. Ataturk airport has four terminals, designated A, B, C and D. The terminals are connected to one another via a free shuttle service, which is provided for passengers with connecting flights.
In comparison, Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport is a much smaller airport located on the Asian side of the city and mainly handles domestic flights from other cities in Turkey. It is the oldest international airport in the country and second oldest in the world, having opened in 2001. It is the secondary hub for Turkish Airlines, and each year, it handles around 23 million passengers. Unlike Ataturk Airport, Sabiha Gökçen only has two terminals.
Aside from offering flights to other cities in Turkey, both airports serve as gateways for flights to other places across the globe, such as New York, London, Tokyo, Dubai and Los Angeles. Ataturk Airport mainly runs international flights to over 200 cities, while Sabiha Gökçen offers over 50 international destinations. It is easier to reach some cities from Sabiha Gökçen than from Ataturk Airport, as it has partnered with low-cost airlines such as Pegasus, Sunexpress and AnadoluJet.
Additionally, both airports benefit from discounts offered by Turkish Airlines on flights to certain international destinations. As well as the discounts, the carrier ensures that both airports operate 24/7 to maintain efficiency and provide customers with the best possible service.
Improvements
Both airports have seen major improvements and upgrades over the past few years to ensure customers are safe and happy. Recent improvements include new terminals, more efficient check-in systems and improved security procedures. At the same time, Turkish Airlines has also invested in new planes, with many being equipped with the latest technology such as Wi-Fi, large screens and comfortable seats for passengers.
This commitment to improving customer experience and satisfaction means that travelers can be sure they will be flying with the best airline when they fly with Turkish Airlines.
Services Available
At both airports, there are a multitude of services that are available to make the traveler’s journey easier. These include parking, car rental facilities, duty-free shopping, currency exchange, lounges, restaurants and cafes. In addition, both airports also have ATMs and international phone services, so travelers can stay in touch with family and friends.
Furthermore, Turkish Airlines also offers extra services for certain passengers, such as privileged check-in, priority boarding and discounted fares for students and families. The airline also operates an airport shuttle service for business travelers who need to get from one airport to the other quickly.
Accommodations
At both Istanbul airports, there are a variety of accommodations to choose from to suit any budget. There is a range of hotel options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly alternatives. Each airport also has its own taxi services, so travelers can get to their hotel quickly and easily.
Hotels located near the airports are generally more expensive than those located further away. However, they do offer convenience and easy access to the airport for travelers, so are worth considering if you need to fly soon after arriving in Istanbul.
Travelling Between Airports
Istanbul’s two international airports are located several miles apart and there are a few different ways of travelling between them. The most convenient way is by using the HAVATAS shuttle service which has several stops at both airports. Buses, trains and cars are also available, but journeys can take several hours.
Travelling between airports can also be done via car or taxi. Prices will vary depending on the distance travelled and the time of day, but it is generally cheaper than taking the shuttle service. Car hire is also available, although travelers should bear in mind that most rental companies charge for petrol.
Conclusion
Turkish Airlines offers a range of flights to over 300 destinations in 100 countries, with the majority of them leaving from Istanbul Ataturk Airport and Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport. Both airports offer a variety of services and have been upgraded in recent years, with new terminals, improved security and Wi-Fi facilities now available. In addition, Turkish Airlines offers customers discounts and other services, such as privileged check-in and priority boarding. Finally, passengers can choose to travel between the two airports by using the shuttle service, or there are alternative options such as car hire and taxis.
