Despite the decline in passenger numbers at airports due to the Coronavirus outbreak, Istanbul Airport, Turkey's gateway to the world, took the top spot in Europe with 23.4 million passengers in 2020.
Istanbul airport, which served 23.4 million passengers in 2020, overtook London Heathrow of U.K. and Frankfurt Airport, Germany's largest airport, in an assessment of airports in Europe during the pandemic period in 2020. Istanbul airport was followed by London Heathrow with 22.1 million passengers and Paris Charles de Gaulle with 22.1 million. Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport took fourth place with 20.9 million passengers, while Frankfurt Airport served 18.8 million passengers.
Istanbul Airport was opened in October April 29, 2018 and became a “Global Transfer Center” in its first year. The airport has started to serve its passengers at full capacity since 6 April 2019. Covering an area of 76.5 million square meters, Istanbul Airport stands out as a global transfer center between Asian, African and European continents.
The airport which is located 36 km from Levent on the European side, 40 km from Taksim, 47 km from Üsküdar on the Anatolian side and 52 km from Kadıköy, can easily be reached by public transport such as buses, airport transfer services, as well as airport taxis and private vehicles. It also has connections to Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge and North Marmara motorway.
Istanbul airport has a Duty Free area of 53,000 m2 with world-famous brands and shops. Inspired by the Bosporus the duty free area offers passengers a pleasant shopping experience before and after the trip with its exclusive brand mix and modern retail concept. Istanbul airport, which maximizes the comfort of the journey with its different services, also has cafes and restaurants serving Turkish and international cuisine. In addition to the unique shopping pleasure waiting for passengers, special passenger services are also offered to make travel from the new airport memorable. Fast pass, buggy, lounge, valet, welcome & send-off services offered by IGA pass make your trip enjoyable.
