Istanbul Airport (IST)
Istanbul, Turkey
Overview
Opened in 2019, Istanbul Airport is a mega-hub and one of the world's largest. Turkish Airlines operates a massive international network from here.
Terminals
Single mega-terminal. Domestic and international wings connected.
Transport to city center
Havaist airport bus: 45-90 min depending on traffic, TL 100+. Metro (M11) to Gayrettepe: 35 min. Taxi: TL 400-600.
Lounges
Turkish Airlines CIP Lounge is among the world's best airport lounges — exceptional food. Multiple airline lounges.
Travel tips
Turkish Airlines lounge is accessible with a Business ticket or Priority Pass. Allow extra time for the massive terminal.
Airport Wi-Fi
Free WiFi at Istanbul Airport — connect to the airport network; the free session is time-limited, and you may verify via passport scan kiosk for longer access.
Security and arrival
Many nationalities enter visa-free or need an e-Visa arranged online beforehand. There's a security screening at the terminal entrance plus the main checkpoint. Standard 100ml liquid rules apply; the airport is huge with long walks to gates, so allow plenty of time for transfers and immigration.
Distance to city
40 km / 35–50 min by M11 Metro or Havaist bus