Istanbul Atatürk Airport
Overview
Istanbul Atatürk Airport, formerly known as Yeşilköy Airport, was the primary international airport serving Istanbul, Turkey, until its closure for commercial passenger flights in 2019. Named after Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey, the airport was located on the European side of Istanbul, approximately 24 kilometers west of the city center. It was a major hub for Turkish Airlines and played a crucial role in connecting Europe with Asia and the Middle East.
History
Early Years
The airport's origins date back to 1912 when it was initially established as a military airfield. In 1953, it was opened to civilian air traffic and underwent several expansions to accommodate the growing demand for air travel. The airport was officially renamed Istanbul Atatürk Airport in 1985, in honor of Turkey's first president.
Development and Expansion
Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, Istanbul Atatürk Airport underwent significant expansions to increase its capacity and modernize its facilities. The construction of a new international terminal, completed in 2000, was a pivotal development that enabled the airport to handle up to 20 million passengers annually. This terminal was equipped with state-of-the-art technology and amenities to enhance passenger experience and streamline operations.
Role as a Major Hub
Istanbul Atatürk Airport served as a critical hub for Turkish Airlines, which utilized the airport as a central point for its extensive network of international and domestic flights. The airport's strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia made it an ideal transit point for travelers heading to various destinations across the globe. At its peak, the airport handled over 60 million passengers annually, making it one of the busiest airports in Europe.
Facilities and Infrastructure
Terminals
Istanbul Atatürk Airport featured two main terminals: the Domestic Terminal and the International Terminal. The Domestic Terminal catered to flights within Turkey, while the International Terminal handled flights to and from international destinations. Both terminals were equipped with modern facilities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, and business centers.
Runways
The airport had three runways, two of which were parallel and capable of handling large aircraft. The runways were equipped with advanced navigation and landing systems to ensure safe and efficient operations under various weather conditions.
Cargo and Logistics
In addition to passenger services, Istanbul Atatürk Airport was a significant center for cargo operations. The airport's cargo facilities were designed to handle a wide range of goods, from perishables to heavy machinery. The strategic location and efficient logistics infrastructure made it a preferred choice for cargo airlines operating in the region.
Transition to Istanbul Airport
In 2019, commercial passenger operations at Istanbul Atatürk Airport were transferred to the newly constructed Istanbul Airport, located in the Arnavutköy district. The transition was part of a broader strategy to accommodate the increasing demand for air travel and to position Istanbul as a global aviation hub. The new airport, with its expansive capacity and modern facilities, was designed to handle up to 200 million passengers annually once fully completed.
Current Status
Following the transfer of commercial operations, Istanbul Atatürk Airport has been repurposed for cargo, maintenance, and general aviation activities. The airport's strategic location and existing infrastructure continue to support various aviation-related operations, contributing to Istanbul's status as a key player in the global aviation industry.