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Türkiye - 2.2.1 Istanbul International Airport
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 Airport Overview 

Istanbul International Airport, located in Türkiye's largest city, Istanbul, is a prominent aviation hub connecting Europe, Asia, and beyond. Opened in 2018, the airport fully replaced Atatürk Airport on 2020 and has since become one of the busiest airports in the world.  

The operations at Istanbul International Airport are vast and cover various aspects of air travel. It handles a significant volume of domestic and international flights, serving as a major transfer point for passengers traveling between continents. The airport features multiple terminal buildings, extensive runway capacity, and efficient ground handling services to accommodate the high passenger traffic and aircraft movements. 

iGA (Istanbul Grand Airport) is an airport infrastructure contractor company, established in October 7, 2013 to construct the Istanbul Airport and operate it for 25 years. iGA Istanbul Airport is 35 km to the city center. The construction plan of the airport was divided into four phases. Within the scope of the first phase, currently there are three runways and a terminal building with a 90-million passenger capacity. When all phases are completed, iGA Istanbul Airport will offer flights to more than 300 destinations with an annual passenger capacity of 200 million. 

 

Airport Location and Contact 

Country 

Türkiye 

Province or District 

Çatalca- Göktürk-Arnavutköy area 

Nearest Town or City  
with Distance from Airport 

Istanbul  

54 KM 

Airport’s Complete Name 

Istanbul International Airport  

Latitude 

41.2768° N 

Longitude 

28.7301° E 

Elevation (ft and m) 

99 m / 325 ft 

IATA Code 

IST 

ICAO Code 

LTFM 

Managing Company or Airport Authority 

IGA (Istanbul Grand Airport) 

Management Contact Person 

Mehmet Cengiz, iGA Executive Board Chairman 

Open From (hours) 

24 hours 

Open To (hours) 

24 hours 

Airport Picture 

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Description and Contacts of Key Companies 

For more information on airport contacts, please see the following link: 4.5 Airport Companies Contact List  

Information on some aviation service providers can be found at: http://www.azfreight.com/  

Istanbul International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the world, relies on a range of key companies to ensure smooth operations and excellent services. These companies play vital roles in various areas of airport management and services. 

IGA Airport Operation Inc. is the main company responsible for the operation, construction, and maintenance of Istanbul International Airport. They oversee the overall management and day-to-day operations of the airport.  

Ground handling services are provided by multiple companies, including Havaş and Çelebi Aviation. Havaş offers a wide range of ground handling services, such as passenger services, cargo handling, and aircraft ramp services. Çelebi Aviation also provides comprehensive ground handling solutions, including passenger, baggage, and cargo handling. In addition, various airlines operate from Istanbul International Airport, including Turkish Airlines, which serves as the national carrier.  

Various airlines operate from IST, below find the exhaustive list: 

https://istanbul-international-airport.com/flights/airlines/  

Passenger and Cargo Performance Indicator 

Performance for 2022 

 

Per Year 

Per Month 

Per Day 

Total Aircraft Movements 

425,852 

35,487.67  

1,183 

Total Passengers 

64.5 million 

5.4 million 

179,216.87 

Total Capacity of the Airport (MT) 

4,500,000 MT 

 

 

Current Activity of the Airport (MT) 

1,504,372     

125,364.30 

4,178.81  

Current use by Humanitarian Flights (UNHAS) 

no 

 

 

Runways 

IST Airport currently has 5 runways, all of which are capable of handling the largest aircraft in the world. Once fully completed by 2027, the airport will have nine runways.  

Runway #1 

Runway Dimensions 

3,750 (m) X 45  (m) 

Orientation 

16L/ 34R 

Surface 

Asphalt  

 

Runway #2 

Runway Dimensions 

4,100 (m) X 45 (m) 

Orientation 

17R/ 35L 

Surface 

Asphalt 

 

Runway #3 

Runway Dimensions 

3,060  (m) X 45 (m) 

Orientation 

18/ 36 

Surface 

Asphalt 

 

Runway #4 

Runway Dimensions 

3,750 (m) X 60 (m) 

Orientation 

16R/ 34L 

Surface 

Asphalt 

 

Runway #5 

Runway Dimensions 

4,100 (m) X 60 (m) 

Orientation 

17L/ 35R 

Surface 

Asphalt 

Airport Infrastructure Details 

Istanbul International Airport boasts a modern and well-maintained airfield, equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and infrastructure. The airport features multiple runways capable of accommodating various types of aircraft, including the world's largest passenger and cargo planes. The runways are regularly maintained to meet international safety standards, ensuring smooth take-offs and landings for carriers and passengers. 

 

Customs 

Yes  

JET A-1 fuel 

Yes  

Immigration 

Yes 

AVGAS 100 

Yes 

Terminal Building 

Yes 

Single Point Refueling 

Yes 

Passenger Terminal 

Yes 

Air Starter Units 

Yes 

Cargo terminal 

Yes 

Ground Power (mobile) 

Yes 

Pax Transport to Airfield 

Yes 

Ground Handling Services 

Yes 

Control Tower 

Yes 

Latrine Servicing 

Yes 

Weather Facilities 

Yes 

Fire Fighting Category (ICAO) 

Yes 

Catering Services 

Yes 

De-icing Equipment 

Yes 

Base Operating Room 

Yes 

Parking Ramp Lighting 

Yes 

Airport Radar 

Yes 

Approach & Runway Lights 

Yes 

NDB 

Yes 

VOR 

Yes 

ILS 

Yes 

CAT III operation all runways  

Yes 

A-SMGCS Level 4  

Yes 

 

 

Airport Operating Details 

Operating Details 

Maximum Sized Aircraft that can be Offloaded on Bulk Cargo 

No limit  

Maximum Sized Aircraft that can be Offloaded on Pallet 

No limit 

Total Aircraft Parking Area (m²) 

350 parking positions 

Storage Area (m3 and MT) 

4.5 Million MT 

Handling Equipment 

Elevators / Hi Loaders  

Yes  

Max Capacity (MT) 

30 MT 

Max Height 

(m) 

 

Loading Ramps 

Yes  

Other Comments 

 

Customs Guidance 

For more information on customs in Türkiye, please see the following link: 1.3 Customs Information  

Customs work form 9am to 8 pm mon-sat. 

At Istanbul International Airport (IST), both cargo and passenger activities are subjected to customs procedures. The time taken for customs clearance can vary based on factors such as the volume of cargo and passenger traffic, as well as the complexity of the goods being transported. Transit at IST airport can take up to 3 working days as cargo is thoroughly inspected and any discrepancy on documentations needs amendment. 

It is recommended to work closely with customs brokers or shipping agents to ensure accurate documentation and timely processing. Customs offices are located within the airport premises, typically in dedicated areas near the cargo terminals or in the arrivals and departures halls for passengers. The operating hours of customs offices are designed to align with flight schedules, ensuring coverage for both cargo and passenger activities. For specific information on customs procedures, operating hours, and any additional requirements, it is best to consult the official website of the Turkish Customs and Trade Ministry (https://www.trade.gov.tr/) or contact the Istanbul International Airport customs authorities directly. 

Storage Facilities 

Istanbul International Airport offers modern and efficient storage facilities to handle various types of cargo and goods. The airport provides both bonded and non-bonded storage options to cater to different logistics requirements. Bonded storage facilities are available for goods in transit or those under customs control, allowing for temporary storage until customs procedures are completed. Non-bonded storage facilities are suitable for general cargo storage needs. Current capacity is 4,5 million tonnes. It will reach 5.5 million tonnes capacity by 2028. 

When utilizing the storage facilities, proper documentation and compliance with customs regulations are crucial. Cargo owners or their authorized representatives should provide accurate and complete documentation related to the stored goods, including invoices, packing lists, and customs declarations. Payment for storage services is typically handled based on the duration of storage and the volume of the goods stored. The exact payment procedures may vary depending on the specific storage provider or agreement between the parties involved. 

Regarding taxes, customs duties, and other levies, they may be applicable depending on the nature of the goods, their origin, and the purpose of storage. It is important to be aware of potential tax obligations and consult with customs authorities or tax experts for guidance.  

It is worth noting that specific details regarding capacity, documentation requirements, payment processes, taxes, and security measures at Istanbul International Airport's storage facilities may change over time. Therefore, for the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is advisable to consult the official airport website or the relevant storage providers at the airport such as Havaş and Çelebi Aviation. 

Overall cargo terminal information: 

  • 1.4 million m2 Total area  

  • 176,784 m2 Total bonded temporary warehouse 

  • 9,000 m2 total cold chain warehouse 

  • 5,000 m2 Total valuable properly and livelihood areas 

  • 29 aircraft parking 

Airfield Costs 

For airfield costs refer to 

https://www.dhmi.gov.tr/Sayfalar/UcretTarifeleri.aspx  

https://www.dhmi.gov.tr/Lists/UcretTarifeleri/Attachments/64/2023_Airport_Charges.pdf 

On the above you can find the charges for Turkish and foreign registered aircraft using Turkish International Airports operated by DHMI for landing, parking, approach and lighting services on their international flights. 

Navigation Charges

Charges 

Aircraft Weight - MTOW (kg) 

 

0 - 7,000 

7,001 - 136,000 

136,001 and over 

Navigation (per journey) USD - $ 

 

 

 

Landing USD - $ 

Between 8.94 and 9.92 euros /tonnes 

Between 8.94 and 9.92 euros / tonnes 

Between 8.94 and 9.92 euros / tonnes 

Night Landing USD - $ 

 

 

 

Night Take-Off USD - $ 

 

 

 

Parking 

3.06 (euro/tonnes – 24 hours)  

3.06 (euro/tonnes – 24 hours) 

3.06 (euro/tonnes – 24 hours) 

Handling Charges 

 

 

 

FUEL SERVICES CHARGES 

Fuel is transported by sea and iGA Refueling Port was made operational along the coast of the Black Sea. A saving of 41% was achieved regarding costs through transportation by sea. A breakwater with a length of 650 meters was constructed of rock and concrete in the Refueling Port so as to protect vessels approaching the port from the wild waves of Black Sea as it takes 24 hours for those vessels to discharge the fuel. 10 tanks with a total capacity of 300,000 cubic meters are available at IST airport. 

Through its 519 fuelling pits when an aircraft needs to be re-fuelled, a ground crew member will connect a hose from a hydrant to the aircraft's fuel tank. The fuel is then pumped into the aircraft under pressure. The fuel cost are updated every 30 days. 

 

 

Price per Litre USD - $ 

Jet A-1 

$0.547 

Avgas 

N/A 

CARGO TERMINAL CHARGES 

10 Bonded Warehouses: Turkish Cargo, DHL Express, UPS, Celebi, Havas, S Sistem, MNG Airlines, PTTC, Trendyol & Fedex (Under Construction). 

4 Unbonded Warehouses: Barsan Global Logistics, DHL Global, Unsped Customs Brokerage, Fevzi Gandur Logistics. 

97 Cargo Agencies and Custom Brokerage 

2 Cargo Transportation Cooperative 

Terminal charges: https://www.turkishcargo.com/en/online-services/terminal-charges  

Export :  https://havas.net/files/fileupload/content/havas-istanbul-export-price-list.pdf  

Import: https://havas.net/files/fileupload/content/havas-istanbul-import-price-list.pdf 

Import Charges

Type of Charge 

Rate USD - $ per kg 

Handling Charge 

88 $ / per service 

Break Bulk Fee 

 

Diplomatic Mail 

Free of charge 

Strong Room – per consignment 

1 Day - 131 $ + 0.162 $ * KG * number of days 

2 Day - 131 $ + 0.174 $* KG * number of days 

3 Day - 131 $ + 0.186 $ * KG * number of days 

4 Day - 131 $ + 0.199 $ * KG * number of days 

5-14 Days - 131 $ + 0.212 $ * KG * number of days 

15-30 Days - 131 $ + 0.224 $ * KG * number of days31 and More Days - 

131 $ + 0.249 $* KG * number of days 

Cold Storage Fee 

1 Day - 131 $ + 0.162 $ * KG * number of days 

2 Day - 131 $ + 0.174 $* KG * number of days 

3 Day - 131 $ + 0.186 $ * KG * number of days 

4 Day - 131 $ + 0.199 $ * KG * number of days 

5-14 Days - 131 $ + 0.212 $ * KG * number of days 

15-30 Days - 131 $ + 0.224 $ * KG * number of days31 and More Days - 

131 $ + 0.249 $* KG * number of days 

Delivery Outside Normal Working Hours 

Weekdays (Monday - Friday) Between 17:01 - 19:00 (US$ 125) 

Between 19:01 - 21:00 (US$ 156) 

Between 21:01 - 24:00 (US$ 217) 

Between 00:01 - 07:59 (US$ 309) 

 

Weekend (Saturday - Sunday)   

Between 08:00 - 17:00 (US$ 175) 

Between 17:01 - 19:00 (US$ 270) 

Between 19:01 - 21:00 (US$ 309) 

Between 21:01 - 24:00 (US$ 372) 

Between 00:01 - 07:59 (US$ 433) 

 

Religious Festivals and Bank Holidays  

Between 08:00 - 17:00 (US$ 248) 

Between 17:01 - 19:00 (US$ 309) 

Between 19:01 - 21:00 (US$ 372) 

Between 21:01 - 24:00 (US$ 433) 

Between 00:01 - 07:59 (US$ 496) 

 

 

Preparation of substitute AOA – Invoice – Receipt 

 

Storage per Day 

83 $ + 0.078 $ * KG * 1 DAY 

83 $ + 0.097 $ * KG * 2 DAY 

83 $ + 0.107 $ * KG * 3 DAY 

83 $ + 0.121 $ * KG * 4 DAY 

5-14 Days - 83 $ + 0.144 $ * KG * number of days  

15-30 Days - 83 $ + 0.151 $ * KG * number of days  

31 and More Days - 83 $ + 0.164 $ * KG * number of days 

Export 

Handling Charges – Un-palletized Cargo 

1680 TL / US$ 62.09 

International Air Waybill 

 

Local Air Waybill 

 

Air Way Bill Amendment - Cancellation 

 

Air Way Bill Documentation 

 

Diplomatic Mail 

Whilst no fee will be applied to the cargoes with diplomatic content, cargoes coming for the consulates with no diplomatic content will be subject to normal cargo tariff. 

Storage Charges per Day 

US$ 0.17 * KG * number of days (Minimum 2205 TL / US$ 81.49) 

Cargo Acceptance fees  

Normal Cargo  

Working Hours (08:00 - 17:00) – 1155 TL / US$ 40.84 

Working Hours (17:01 - 19:00) / Weekend (Saturday - Sunday) (08:00 - 17:00) - 1470 TL / US$ 54.33  

19:01 - 24:00 / 00:01 - 07:59 - 1785 TL / US$ 65.97 

Religious Festivals and Bank Holidays / After 19:01 at the Weekend - 855 TL /US$ 31.60 

 

Live Animal  

Working Hours (08:00 - 17:00) – 1540 TL / US$ 56.91 

Working Hours (17:01 - 19:00) / Weekend (Saturday - Sunday) – (08:00 - 17:00) – 1890 TL/ US$ 69.85 

19:01 - 24:00 / 00:01 - 07:59 – 3205 TL/ US$ 118.44 

Religious Festivals and Bank Holidays / After 19:01 at the Weekend – 3205 TL / US$ 118.44 

 

Frigorific Cargoes (Food Products) 

Working Hours (08:00 - 17:00) – US$ 51.74 + (US$ 0.082 * Kg) 

Working Hours (17:01 - 19:00) / Weekend (Saturday - Sunday) (08:00 - 17:00) – US$ 69.85 + (US$ 0.082 * Kg) 

19:01 - 24:00 / 00:01 - 07:59 - 2723 TL + (US$ 0.082 * Kg) 

Religious Festivals and Bank Holidays / After 19:01 at the Weekend - 2723 TL + (US$ 0.082 * Kg) 

Dangerous and Valuable Cargoes  

Working Hours (08:00 - 17:00) - US$ 56.91 + (US$ 0.089 * Kg * number of days) 

Working Hours (17:01 - 19:00) / Weekend (Saturday - Sunday) (08:00 - 17:00) - US$ 69.85 + (US$ 0.089 * Kg * number of days) 

19:01 - 24:00 / 00:01 - 07:59 – US$ 118.44 + (US$ 0.089 * Kg * number of days) 

Religious Festivals and Bank Holidays / After 19:01 at the Weekend - US$ 118.44 + (US$ 0.089 * Kg * number of days) 

 

Frigorific Cargoes (Pharmaceuticals, Medical Materials, Chemical Substances ) 

Working Hours (08:00 - 17:00) – US$ 56.91+ (US$ 0.14 * Kg * number of days) 

Working Hours (17:01 - 19:00) / Weekend (Saturday - Sunday) (08:00 - 17:00) – US$ 69.85+ (US$ 0.14 * Kg * number of days) 

19:01 - 24:00 / 00:01 - 07:59 – US$ 118.44 + (US$ 0.14 * Kg * number of days) 

Religious Festivals and Bank Holidays / After 19:01 at the Weekend - US$ 118.44 + (US$ 0.14 * Kg * number of days) 

 

AIR-BRIDGE CHARGES 

image-20230920114724-4

The duration for passenger boarding bridge service begins with aircraft parking and ends with push-back from the bridge. The maximum duration for passenger boarding bridge service is 2 hours. When this duration is exceeded, the charge will be increased by 25% per each half an hour. 

The charge for passenger boarding bridge is calculated on half-hour charge basis per half an hour as specified in the chart. If the duration is less than half an hour, half an hour is charged. If the duration exceeds an hour, no charge is applied to first 15 minutes after an hour. 

The charges are not implemented for: 

Aircraft carrying aid material and personnel for Search and Rescue, natural disasters, and humanitarian aid. 

Aircraft carrying Heads of States on their official visits. 

Aircraft belonging to national public state entities and organizations (except the aircraft belonging to universities and aircraft used within the scope of service procurement contracts of public state entities and organizations). 

Foreign military aircraft on condition of reciprocity. 

Aircraft declared as exempt from the charges by Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure. 

Passenger Boarding Bridge fare to any aircraft that could not take off due to meteorological conditions or in case the RWYs are closed to air traffic for a duration exceeding 2 hours. 

For the exceeding period if the aircraft exceeds the waiting duration of 2 hours as connected to the passenger boarding bridge having accomplished all procedures and asked for take-off permission to start the engines but granted no permission by the ATC Tower in return. 

Security 

The security of the airport is ensured by Police and DHMI Security for the purposes of National Civil Aviation Security Programme. All implementations about security are implemented as part of the Private Security Law 5188. 

 

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