Atatürk Airport, located in the European side of Istanbul, was an international airport that served as one of the busiest airports in Turkey. Established in 1953, it had been operating for over six decades before officially ceasing its operations on April 6, 2019, and handing over its place to the new Istanbul Airport. Atatürk Airport was strategically situated close to the city center of Istanbul, and its old architecture was in close proximity to several historical and cultural tourist destinations. The airport hosted many international airlines and had been an important hub for various flights.
However, as the number of passengers flying in and out of Istanbul continued to increase, it became clear that a new, larger, and more modern airport was necessary to meet the growing demand. Hence, the Turkish government started the construction of the new Istanbul Airport in 2014, which officially opened in October 2018. The new airport was built on a much larger scale, and it has been designed to cater to an ever-increasing number of passengers, making it the largest airport in Turkey and the world's largest airport under a single roof.
The new Istanbul Airport is located on the European side of Istanbul, in the Arnavutköy district, and has six runways, three terminals, and the ability to accommodate up to 200 million passengers annually. The airport was built to provide a seamless passenger experience, featuring state-of-the-art facilities and amenities, including a high-speed rail link, duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, lounges, and many other services.
With the opening of the new Istanbul Airport, Atatürk Airport was officially closed for commercial flights, and its operations were transferred to the new airport. The closure of Atatürk Airport marked the end of an era, as it had served as a crucial transportation hub for Istanbul and Turkey for many years.
In conclusion, Atatürk Airport had a significant role in the development and growth of Istanbul's aviation industry. However, the need for a larger, more modern airport prompted the construction of the new Istanbul Airport, which now serves as Turkey's primary airport. With the opening of the new airport, Istanbul's status as a global transportation hub has been further enhanced, providing passengers with world-class facilities and amenities.
