Istanbul Airport reaches a new level of development

 IGA Istanbul Airport continues to set global standards in aviation. The construction of the fourth runway, costing €332.5 million, is nearing completion, and the airport has become the first in Europe to receive Level 5 certification fr om the International Airport Council (ACI). This recognition highlights the highest level of service and opens a new era in passenger experience.

Global transport accessibility

In just five years, Istanbul Airport has become one of the largest international hubs:

• more than 330 destinations in 130 countries;
  

• the number of airlines increased from 61 to 116;
  

• leading in international connectivity, surpassing hubs such as Frankfurt.
  
  

These achievements have boosted tourism, trade, and accelerated economic growth for the city and the country.

Strengthening ties with Asia

Special attention is given to cooperation with China. Whereas previously only Turkish Airlines operated flights, today four Chinese airlines serve Istanbul Airport. They are actively increasing flight frequency, making Istanbul one of the key transit hubs in the region and strengthening its position against competitors such as Dubai and Doha.

Investments in sustainable development

Airport infrastructure development goes beyond the new runway:

• a 240 MW solar power plant is under construction in Eskişehir, expected to fully cover the airport's energy needs;
  
  

• by the end of the year, a VIP terminal, a civil aviation terminal, and a Hilton hotel are planned to open.
  
  

These projects emphasize innovation and sustainable development.

International recognition and new achievements

Istanbul Airport İGA continues to collect global awards. It was recognized as the Best Airport in Europe among those serving over 40 million passengers. The most significant achievement was receiving Level 5 in the ACI Airport Customer Experience Accreditation Program, the highest recognition previously held only by leading airports in South Korea, India, and Ecuador.

Passengers in Istanbul can now be confident in flawless service, wh ere customer experience is fully integrated into all airport operations.

The international community also recognized the airport with the Global Training Leadership Award for staff training programs, in which over 95% of employees and passengers participated, significantly improving customer satisfaction. In total, İGA has received three prestigious awards from ACI World, confirming its status as one of the world’s leading airports.

In addition, İGA announced the ACI World Customer Experience Summit in Istanbul from August 31 to September 4, 2026, which will bring together leading aviation industry representatives to exchange innovative strategies aimed at improving customer and staff experience.

These achievements highlight not only the technological and infrastructural development of the airport but also the high level of Turkish hospitality, making Istanbul a modern international hub for meetings and transit.

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