Ankara, the capital city of Turkey, is home to several airports, but the most prominent one is the Ankara Esenboga International Airport. The airport serves as a gateway to the city and plays a vital role in connecting Ankara to other parts of the world. In this article, we will look at the history, location, facilities, and future developments of Ankara Esenboga International Airport.
History of Ankara’s airports
Ankara has had several airports in the past, but the first one was established in 1925 to serve military purposes. The first civilian airport, Etimesgut Airport, was built in 1955, which was later replaced by the Ankara Esenboga International Airport in 1955. Since then, the airport has undergone several renovations and expansions to cater to the growing number of passengers.
Importance of Ankara airport
Ankara Esenboga International Airport is an essential hub for both domestic and international travel. It serves as a gateway to the city, and its strategic location makes it an ideal stopover for travelers heading to other destinations in Turkey or Europe. The airport contributes significantly to the city’s economy and provides job opportunities for the locals.
Location of Ankara airport
The Ankara Esenboga International Airport is located 28 km northeast of Ankara city center. The airport is easily accessible by car, taxi, or public transport. There are several shuttle buses that operate between the airport and the city center, making it easy for passengers to reach their destination.
Terminal facilities
The airport has two terminals, one for domestic flights and the other for international flights. The terminals are equipped with modern facilities such as restaurants, cafes, duty-free shops, and lounges. The airport also provides free Wi-Fi to passengers, and there are ATMs and currency exchange facilities available.
Airlines operating in Ankara airport
Several airlines operate in Ankara Esenboga International Airport, including Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, AnadoluJet, and AtlasGlobal. These airlines offer both domestic and international flights to several destinations, including Istanbul, Antalya, London, Paris, and Frankfurt.
Domestic and international flights
The airport handles both domestic and international flights. Domestic flights operate to several destinations within Turkey, including Istanbul, Antalya, Bodrum, and Izmir. International flights operate to several destinations in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, including London, Paris, Frankfurt, Tehran, and Dubai.
Transportation options to/from airport
There are several transportation options available to passengers traveling to and from the airport. The airport is well-connected to the city by shuttle buses, taxis, and private cars. Passengers can also rent a car at the airport if they prefer to drive themselves.
Parking facilities
The airport has both short-term and long-term parking facilities available for passengers. The parking areas are secure, and the rates are reasonable. Passengers can also book their parking spots online in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
Airport security measures
The airport has strict security measures in place to ensure the safety of passengers and staff. The airport has modern security screening equipment, and passengers are required to go through several security checkpoints before boarding their flights.
Future developments
The Ankara Esenboga International Airport is undergoing several improvements and expansions to cater to the growing number of passengers. The airport is expanding its runways, adding new terminals, and improving its parking facilities. These developments are expected to be completed in the coming years.
Conclusion
The Ankara Esenboga International Airport is a vital hub for both domestic and international travel. The airport serves as a gateway to the city and provides several modern facilities and amenities to passengers. With several airlines operating in the airport, passengers have several options to choose from when traveling to and from Ankara. The airport’s future developments will further improve its capacity and efficiency, making it an ideal stopover for travelers heading to other destinations.
