Question 1

What is the IATA code for Istanbul Airport?

Accepted Answer

Istanbul Airport's IATA code is IST. The ICAO code is LTFM. It replaced the old Atatürk Airport (ISL/LTBA) which closed in 2019.

Question 2

How do I get from Istanbul Airport to the city center?

Accepted Answer

The main options are: M11 metro (cheapest, ~50 min), Havaist bus (24/7 service, ~60-90 min), taxi (~40-60 min, 600-900 TRY), or private transfer (~40-60 min, fixed price). The metro is the most reliable option.

Question 3

Is there free WiFi at Istanbul Airport?

Accepted Answer

Yes, free unlimited WiFi is available throughout the terminal. Connect to 'ist_free_wifi' and register with your email. Charging stations are also widely available.

Question 4

How early should I arrive at Istanbul Airport?

Accepted Answer

Arrive 3 hours before international flights and 2 hours before domestic flights. During peak seasons, add 30 extra minutes. The airport is large and distances between check-in and gates can be significant.

Question 5

Can I sleep at Istanbul Airport?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Options include Yotel (hotel inside the terminal), sleeping pods in the transit area, and comfortable seating areas. The airport is open 24/7 and considered safe for overnight stays.

Question 6

Where can I store luggage at Istanbul Airport?

Accepted Answer

Luggage storage is available in the arrivals area and transit zone, operated by companies like LuggageHero. Rates are approximately 100-150 TRY per bag per day.

Question 7

Does Istanbul Airport have prayer rooms?

Accepted Answer

Yes, prayer rooms (mescit) are available in both the domestic and international areas, before and after security. They are open 24/7 and clearly signposted.

Question 8

Is there a pharmacy at Istanbul Airport?

Accepted Answer

Yes, there is a pharmacy in the arrivals area and one in the international departures area. Basic medications and travel health supplies are also available at convenience stores.

Question 9

How do I get between the old airport and new Istanbul Airport?

Accepted Answer

The old Atatürk Airport (ISL) no longer handles commercial passenger flights — it was closed in 2019. All flights now operate from the new Istanbul Airport (IST) in Arnavutköy. Note: Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) on the Asian side is a separate airport.

Question 10

What is Sabiha Gökçen Airport?

Accepted Answer

Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) is Istanbul's second airport, located on the Asian side. It primarily handles low-cost carriers and some international flights. It is different from Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side.

Istanbul Airport FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Book Your Istanbul Transfer