Redefining Airport Dynamics: iGA Istanbul Airport

iGA Istanbul Airport stands as a global icon of modern architecture, harmoniously blending functionality with cultural identity. As the world’s highest-capacity airport built under a single roof, it handles an immense operation while embodying the spirit of Türkiye. 

Designed with resilience at its core, the airport seamlessly operates under challenging conditions, thanks to advanced infrastructure and cutting-edge technology.

1. iGA Istanbul Airport is celebrated for its architectural prowess. Tell us about the design elements that make your airport unique. 

What truly sets iGA apart is our commitment to creating a space that reflects Türkiye’s rich heritage. The terminal’s design elegantly integrates traditional Turkish motifs with contemporary aesthetics. For instance, sunlight streaming into the terminal during the day casts a crescent moon shape—a deliberate nod to the Ottoman symbol of authority and the modern emblem of the Republic of Türkiye.

The Air Traffic Control Tower, inspired by the tulip—a cherished symbol of grace in Turkish-Islamic art—stands as a signature feature. Designed by the globally renowned architectural firms Pininfarina and Aecom, it marries tradition with innovation. 

The tulip holds a special place in our history, symbolising grace, elegance, and innocence within Turkish art and culture. By incorporating this motif into the tower’s design, İGA celebrates not only the aesthetic beauty of Türkiye’s traditions but also the flower’s cultural significance. This blend of modern architectural innovation with traditional symbolism helped us in the pursuit of creating a space that is both globally impactful and deeply rooted in Turkish identity.

Adding to this cultural narrative, iGA Istanbul Airport is home to Türkiye’s largest airport museum. Spanning 1,000 sqm, it showcases over 300 artefacts from 29 museums across the country, offering travellers an immersive journey into Türkiye’s ancient treasures. This fusion of world-class architectural ingenuity and cultural homage ensures that iGA Istanbul Airport is not just a gateway to the world but also an experience deeply rooted in the essence of Türkiye.

Lastly, iGA Istanbul Airport is also a LEED Gold-certified building since 2020, and the terminal is designed to maximise the use of natural sunlight. Almost every aspect of the airport’s construction and architecture prioritises eco-friendliness as well.

2. Despite handling over 55 flights hourly, the ground experience at iGA Istanbul Airport remains remarkably fluid. Take us through the complex triple runway system and how this is helping you increase capacity and punctuality.

The triple runway system at iGA Istanbul Airport will truly be a cornerstone of our operations and a point of pride for us. It’s not just about having more runways—it’s about how they work together to keep things moving seamlessly. When all phases are completed with the ability to perform simultaneous take-offs and landings, we will be able to handle approximately 90 flights per hour, up from 58 to 60 flights per hour today. 

This system is non-existent in Europe right now and is modelled after systems you’d typically see at some of the most advanced airports in the United States. For us, this capability is vital because we’re not just an airport—we’re a global hub connecting continents. Managing such a massive volume of passenger and cargo traffic efficiently is key to maintaining that role.

The magic lies in the technology and coordination behind the scenes. Our air traffic control teams use state-of-the-art radar systems, navigation aids, and predictive analytics to ensure everything runs like clockwork. For instance, real-time data helps controllers make quick, informed decisions, while predictive tools allow us to anticipate flight patterns and avoid potential runway conflicts. This is crucial for keeping operations safe, especially during peak travel times when the pressure is highest.

The benefits of this system go beyond just capacity and punctuality. By reducing the time planes spend taxiing or waiting, we’re able to cut down on fuel consumption, which directly lowers emissions. That’s a big win for the environment and aligns perfectly with our sustainability goals. At the same time, the increased efficiency allows us to offer a better experience for passengers and contribute significantly to Türkiye’s economy by facilitating smoother tourism and trade operations.

What makes this even more exciting is that we’ve designed this system with the future in mind. As demand grows, our triple runway setup will help us scale without compromising safety or efficiency. We’ve also put a lot of effort into ensuring our teams are ready—through extensive training and continuous upgrades to our technology.

At the end of the day, it’s about creating an environment where passengers and airlines can rely on us. The triple runway system is just one piece of the puzzle, but it’s a crucial one that helps us stand out and sets a new standard for what’s possible in aviation. Our goal is to start triple independent parallel approach operations at iGA Istanbul Airport within April 2025.

3. Passenger comfort is a core factor in travel. What strategies and tech solutions have you implemented to ensure that passenger experience is seamless at your airport. What exciting plans do you have for 2025 in order to boost passenger comfort?

iGA Istanbul Airport is one of the world’s most powerful transfer centres, guaranteeing passengers a seamless travel experience. Striving to put the customer at the core of its offering, iGA Istanbul Airport provides a human-centred approach, recognising everyone’s fundamental right to travel. 

The top three goals include improving passenger flow, fostering positive interactions between all staff and passengers and providing a comfortable experience from start to finish. From the moment passengers enter the terminal to the time they board their flight, every touchpoint is designed and executed to deliver a seamless, pleasant, and memorable experience. 

Examples of technology to aid seamless passenger experiences include our Arrival Passenger Guide which provides comprehensive flight and airport information for a smooth and informed journey from the moment passengers enter the airport, tourism information centres and other advanced technologies, such as self check-in kiosks, biometric screening and the iGA App, for real-time flight tracking, lounge access and fast-track queue access etc. 

iGA also provides a range of wellness and entertainment offerings to boost passenger comfort and ensure a positive experience throughout. This includes the introduction of the Therapy Dog Project, designed to provide a calming and enjoyable travel experience to passengers experiencing flight-related stress. The dogs are on duty to provide support to nervous fliers, or simply those looking for comfort ahead of their journey. 

Did you know?

Therapy Dog Project at iGA is designed to provide a calming and enjoyable travel experience to passengers experiencing flight-related stress. The dogs are on duty to provide support to nervous fliers, or simply those looking for comfort ahead of their journey. 

We also provide a range of special rooms tailored to cater to the needs of those requiring accessibility assistance during their travel, as well as offerings such as the Ambassador SPA offering a range of beauty treatments, a fully-stocked library and iGA Sleeppods and Napzone Areas, for those seeking rest and relaxation in-between journeys. 

Additionally, iGA Istanbul Airport is at the forefront of introducing innovations in the global aviation industry, placing great importance on our digital journey, and enhancing passenger experiences. Observing trends in aviation and airport management, iGA recognises the increasing integration of technology-driven advancements, both physically and digitally, to facilitate a smoother travel experience for passengers. 

Emerging fields like data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning are gaining prominence across airports, including ours. We are on our journey to becoming the world’s best digital airport and with that, we are focused on placing passengers at the centre of our design approach.

4. Airport of the future is all about accessibility. How have you ensured that persons with disabilities, women, minors, and senior passengers have a positive travel experience at iGA Istanbul Airport. In what ways can airports elevate the experience of travel for this particular demographic?

At iGA Istanbul Airport, we firmly believe that accessibility is not just about meeting legal standards—it’s about creating an inclusive environment where every passenger, regardless of their needs, feels empowered to travel independently and comfortably. 

From the very beginning of the airport’s design, accessibility was at the forefront of our plans. We aim to provide a smooth, seamless travel experience for everyone. We are also proud to be the first airport in the world to receive the accessibility accreditation from the Airports Council International (ACI).

Our approach to accessibility goes beyond traditional facilities. We’ve developed services like the “Rota Yanımda” feature on our mobile app, which helps visually impaired passengers navigate the airport independently by providing real-time information and voice-guided directions. 

Additionally, we’ve introduced an innovative “Accessible Route” with a tactile floor that guides visually impaired guests all the way to their flight gates without any obstacles. For passengers sensitive to noise or crowds, we offer quiet rooms in key areas of the airport, including check-in and departure zones, where passengers can relax in a calm and peaceful space.

We also understand that some passengers need extra care and support, which is why we introduced the “Ayçiçeği Yaka Kartı” (Sunflower Pin) program. This initiative helps identify passengers with invisible disabilities like autism or anxiety, so our staff can provide them with the extra care they might need. 

In addition to these services, we’ve created accessible spaces such as adult changing rooms, nursing areas, and accessible toilets with features like audible signals to indicate availability. Our digital kiosks, located throughout the airport, are fully accessible and allow passengers to get directions or contact staff for assistance. For those who need sign language support, we offer video call assistance 24/7 via our mobile app and website. 

We’ve also partnered with various organisations to promote awareness and raise the visibility of accessibility issues, and our “İGA Yanımda” platform connects us with different associations to continue enhancing accessibility services.

At iGA Istanbul Airport, we believe that creating a truly accessible airport is a continuous process. We listen to the feedback from our passengers and partners to improve our services, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background or ability, can enjoy the benefits of air travel. By designing with inclusivity in mind, we’re not just setting new standards for accessibility, but we’re also elevating the entire travel experience for all passengers.

5. As we move forward, sustainability has become imperative. What sustainable practices have you implemented at iGA Istanbul Airport? Tell us about your future plans to optimise airport operations whilst hitting your green goals.

At iGA, we are driven by the mission ‘Focus on the Planet, Target for the Future’ and our roadmap to become Net Zero by 2050, which involves our three core pillars of future mobility, integrity of the environment and generating value for people. 

We have implemented a comprehensive plan of 2030 sustainability goals, aiming to reduce and manage environmental and social impact, alongside taking positive steps forward for the mobility sector. 

We are continuing to develop various projects to soon become known to travellers and other companies as a one of the top sustainable airports, such as:  

• Reducing emissions caused by waste by 50% and gradually transforming 50% of our vehicle fleet into electric vehicles.  As a result of these steps, our total energy consumption decreased by 10.7% last year.
• Procured 30% of the water consumed at our airport from recycled water. Our water footprint decreased by 5% compared to last year.  
• Recycled 35% of our waste and ensured its inclusion as a raw material in our country’s economy. 
• Collecting the wastewater generated from our operations through the sewage infrastructure system and treat it at the Domestic Advanced Biological Wastewater Treatment Plant, which has a capacity of 15,000 m3/day. We use the water we recycle for landscape irrigation. 
• 35% of the water consumed at our airport is procured from recycled resources.
• Investing in cutting-edge infrastructure in the near future, iGA Istanbul Airport plans to establish efficient refuelling areas for hydrogen fuel. 
• We already have planned the required infrastructure for the transition of SAF and hydrogen fuel even from now. To provide all respected electricity supply for hydrogen fuel through renewable energy sources, thanks to our solar power plant project, which is expected to be operational by the end of 2024. Also, our port operations have the capability to host capsize ships carrying any kind of fuel from future production facilities.

6. Speaking of travel retail, the sky is the limit for shopaholics at the Istanbul Airport. How has this affected your airport operations and management of passenger inflow? 

At iGA Istanbul Airport, we take pride in redefining the travel retail experience. As one of the largest airports in the world, we’ve curated a shopping environment that goes far beyond convenience. It’s designed to delight and immerse our passengers in a world of premium retail offerings while keeping our airport operations seamless and efficient.

Our expansive duty-free area, covering 55,000 square meters, offers a unique blend of global luxury brands and local Turkish treasures. Passengers can explore themed sections like the Fashion Garden or the Family Palace, each tailored to specific interests, whether it’s high-end fashion, family-friendly essentials, or local artisanal products. With innovative concepts like these, our shopping areas are not just functional—they’re destinations in themselves, helping passengers enjoy their time before or between flights.

What makes this experience even more remarkable is how we’ve integrated cutting-edge technology to enhance convenience. From “Magic Mirror” systems that let shoppers virtually try on products to smart shopping baskets and mobile payment points, we’ve streamlined the retail process to ensure passengers can enjoy a world-class shopping experience without feeling rushed. Our customer profiling systems allow us to tailor offerings to individual preferences, adding a personal touch to retail that resonates with our global audience.

Of course, we’ve also prioritised managing passenger flow amid the excitement of retail therapy. The spacious, well-planned layout ensures that even at peak times, passengers can navigate between shopping, dining, and their departure gates effortlessly. 

Ultimately, our retail spaces are more than just stores—they reflect the city’s vibrancy and the airport’s commitment to enhancing every stage of the journey. By combining top-tier brands, local culture, and the latest technologies, we’ve created an ecosystem that enriches travel and ensures every passenger’s experience at iGA Istanbul Airport is as memorable as it is seamless.

7. iGA Istanbul Airport is synonymous with Turkish hospitality coupled with world-class luxury. How does the airport cater to the needs of passengers belonging to all age groups and genders? 

At iGA Istanbul Airport, we understand that passengers have various needs and expectations. We focus on eight main passenger segments: families with children, disabled passengers, elderly passengers, global passengers, Generation Z, business people, premium passengers, and families with pets. 

By tailoring our services to meet the specific requirements of these groups, we ensure that everyone has a comfortable and satisfying experience. What truly sets iGA Istanbul Airport apart is our embodiment of Turkish hospitality – a deep-seated cultural value that permeates every interaction we have with our passengers. 

We aim to make every traveller feel at home and our dedication to this level of care and attentiveness is a key differentiator in the highly competitive aviation sector. For example, our services for families with children include dedicated play areas and family-friendly amenities, while our offerings for elderly passengers and those with disabilities focus on accessibility and comfort. 

8. Complete this sentence. The future of airports lies in …

The future of airports lies in seamlessly blending technology, sustainability, mobility, and inclusivity to create efficient, environmentally conscious, and universally accessible spaces that elevate the travel experience for every passenger.

9. What are the key reforms that you would prefer to see in the aviation industry? Tell us one thing that you would like to  introduce in your airport that no other airports have?  

One key reform that I frequently mention and would like to see in our sector is enhancing data-sharing among airports and airlines globally to streamline operations, reduce delays, and improve the passenger journey. By leveraging AI and real-time analytics, the industry can create an interconnected ecosystem that benefits travellers, airlines, and the planet alike.

One of the many things I would like to introduce at iGA Istanbul Airport that would set us apart, is a ‘Personalised AI Concierge System’. In today’s world, where travel can often feel overwhelming, we envision technology that truly transforms the passenger experience into something seamless and enjoyable.

Imagine a system that serves as your personal travel assistant from the moment you enter the airport. This AI-powered concierge could guide passengers through the terminal with step-by-step navigation tailored to their needs. 

For international travellers, it could instantly translate languages and provide augmented reality features to ensure no one feels lost, no matter how vast the airport may be.

The system would also act as a proactive problem solver. For example, in the event of disruptions, it could automatically assist with rebooking flights, finding accommodations, or suggesting alternative routes—minimising stress and ensuring a smoother journey.

The vision behind this innovation is to redefine convenience and elevate the travel experience, making iGA Istanbul Airport a global leader not just in size and scale but in delivering thoughtful, passenger-focused services.

10. As an airport CEO, how does your day look? 

A typical day for me is a mix of strategic planning, operational oversight, and constant engagement with our teams and partners. Airports are like small cities, and no two days are ever the same, which is what makes this role both challenging and incredibly rewarding.

I usually start my day early, reviewing key performance metrics from the previous day—passenger flow, punctuality, operational efficiency, and any incidents that may have occurred.

Of course, daily meetings with our managers and key stakeholders are part of the usual routine—covering everything from operations and security to retail and sustainability. I strongly believe in teamwork and fostering a team spirit. I try to ensure all team members are aligned and motivated toward our shared goals.

Frequent site visits are also an integral part of my day. Walking through the terminal allows me to master every detail of the facility, interact with employees and passengers, and identify opportunities for improvement firsthand.

I also make it a point to participate in celebrations and congratulatory events with our staff, almost daily, whether it’s recognising milestones, achievements, birthdays, or cultural occasions. I believe this is vital for building strong relationships and a unified working environment.

At the end of each day, I go through all the inquiries that passengers send to our customer care system, along with any comments or complaints about the airport. Staying connected to our passengers’ experiences helps me ensure their concerns are addressed promptly and effectively.