Istanbul Ataturk Airport Turkey (LTBA Airport) is one of the busiest airports in Europe. It provides many services to make travel comfortable and easy. Passengers can use the airport’s fitness center. It has modern exercise equipment and facilities. This helps them stay refreshed during layovers. For those requiring accommodation, the airport features several hotels, including the popular YOTELAIR Istanbul Airport, which provides comfortable and affordable rooms for travelers.
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These airport hotels in Istanbul provide many amenities. They offer free Wi-Fi, dining choices, and easy access to the airport terminals. Istanbul is a lively city with many attractions. One of the most famous is the Hagia Sophia. This former Byzantine cathedral is now a museum. It shows the rich history and culture of the area. Overall, Istanbul Ataturk International Airport’s operational information, combined with the city’s captivating attractions, make it an appealing destination for travellers
Ataturk Airport Code (LTBA Airport)
ICAO: LTBA
IATA: ISL
Elevation: 94 ft / 28 m
Coordinates: N40-58.6/E028-48.9
Operating Hours for Jet Flights: 24H
Located in Istanbul, Turkey.
Istanbul Ataturk International Airport Operational Information:
- Suitable for private aircraft and charter flight operations.
- In-flight catering – Available
- Slots – Required
- Landing Permit – Required
- CIQ – Available
- FBO – Available
- VIP lounge – Available
- Visas (non-EU & EU, passengers, and crew) – Required
- Parking and Hangarage – Parking Available | Hangar Available
- Airside access – Available
- Fuel available – Available
- Noise Abatement Procedure at night – NIL
- ATC restrictions or significant NOTAMs – Based on weather conditions or airport traffic
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Airport Name | Istanbul Ataturk International Airport |
| Location | Istanbul, Turkey |
| IATA Code | IST (until April 6, 2019, then transferred to Istanbul Airport) |
| ICAO Code | LTBA |
| Opened | 1924 |
| Closed | April 6, 2019 (replaced by Istanbul Airport) |
| Former Hub For | Turkish Airlines |
| Passenger Capacity (2018) | 60 million |
| Passenger Traffic (2018) | 68,192,683 |
| Aircraft Movements (2018) | 460,785 |
| Cargo Handled (2018) | 1,235,483 tons |
| Runways | 3 (05/23, 17L/35R, 17R/35L) |
| Terminals | 4 (International Terminal, Domestic Terminal, Cargo Terminal, General Aviation Terminal) |
| Airport Hotels | YOTELAIR Istanbul Airport, TAV Airport Hotel |
| Facilities | Duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, prayer rooms, medical facilities, banks, post office |
| Public Transport | Metro (M1 line), airport shuttles, buses, taxis |
| Accolades | Best Airport in Southern Europe (Skytrax, 2009-2016) |
| Interesting Fact | Atatürk Airport was ranked the 5th busiest airport in Europe by passenger traffic in 2015 |
Note: Istanbul Ataturk International Airport closed on April 6, 2019. All operations moved to the new Istanbul Airport.
FAQ: Istanbul Ataturk Airport Turkey (LTBA Airport)
1. Is Istanbul Ataturk Airport still open for private and cargo flights in 2026?
Answer: Yes, while commercial passenger traffic has moved to Istanbul Airport (IST), Istanbul Ataturk Airport (LTBA) remains fully operational for general aviation, private business jets, cargo operations, and state aircraft. It continues to be a primary hub for flight support services in Turkey.
2. What is the airport code for Istanbul Ataturk Airport?
Answer: The ICAO code for Istanbul Ataturk Airport is LTBA. Please note that the IATA code ISL is now used for its remaining operations, as the “IST” code was transferred to the new Istanbul Airport.
3. Can I book crew accommodation (HOTAC) near LTBA?
Answer: Absolutely. There are several premium hotels located within minutes of the LTBA terminal. ASM provides specialized HOTAC services, including negotiated rates and seamless airport transfers for flight crews and technical teams staying in the Ataturk area.
4. Does ASM provide ground handling and permits for LTBA?
Answer: Yes, ASM offers comprehensive flight support at Istanbul Ataturk Airport, including landing permits, slot coordination, ground handling, and fueling services. Our 24/7 global operations team ensures all logistical requirements for LTBA are managed efficiently.
5. How do I obtain a Turkish landing permit for Istanbul Ataturk Airport?
Answer: Obtaining a Turkish landing permit for LTBA requires submitting your flight department details, aircraft documents, and schedule to the Turkish Civil Aviation Authority (DGCA). ASM specializes in expedited landing permits for Istanbul, typically managing the entire application process and slot coordination to ensure your mission meets all local regulatory requirements.
6. What are the operating hours and noise restrictions for private jets at LTBA?
Answer: Istanbul Ataturk Airport (LTBA) operating hours are 24/7 for authorized general aviation and cargo flights. While the airport is highly accessible, it is subject to specific noise abatement procedures and slot availability. Working with a local flight support provider ensures your crew is briefed on the latest LTBA noise restrictions and arrival/departure slots for 2026.
7. Are there FBO (Fixed Base Operator) facilities for business aviation at Ataturk Airport?
Answer: Yes, there are dedicated FBO facilities at Istanbul Ataturk Airport designed specifically for business aviation. These terminals offer private lounges, CIQ (Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine) processing, and direct ramp access. ASM coordinates with these FBOs to provide premium VIP ground handling at LTBA, ensuring a seamless transition for passengers and crew.
Hotel accommodation for Crew / VIP Passengers with ASM special rates in Turkey:
- Hyatt Regency Istanbul Ataköy
- Radisson Blu Conference & Airport Hotel, Istanbul
- Hilton Istanbul Bosphorus
Get special rates, discounts, and benefits when booking through ASM concierge services.
ASM Services
For inquiries regarding Flight Permits, Fuelling and Ground handling services at Istanbul Ataturk International Airport, kindly email sales@asm.aero
To book your private jet travel to Turkey with ASM Charter, please contact – charter@asm.aero. Our experts will take care of every aspect of your trip.

