Izmir airport is the gateway to the central parts of Aegean Turkey. Also known as Adnan Menderes airport, it is 18 kilometres south of the city and is ideal for those heading to Selcuk (55 kilometres), the ancient city of Ephesus (58 kilometres) and Pamukkale (252 kilometres.) The Izmir region is rich in history and culture, and being a favourite of sun-seekers: beaches, so as well as being a connecting point for other towns, the airport, named after a former Turkish prime minister, hosts up to 200,000 fliers. Impressing everyone with their state of the art domestic and international terminals, the service of Izmir airport ensures a quick and smooth flight, marking its status as Turkey's fourth busiest airport.
About Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport
When Did Izmir Airport Open?
The original opening date of Izmir airport was 1987, but in 2006, the international terminal overwent major reconstruction to modernise the flying experience. In addition, in 2014, the domestic terminal of Izmir Airport also underwent refurbishment work. This led to the building work being granted a LEED Green building Certificate. This proves it is economical, profitable, and more environment-friendly. Currently, TAV airport holdings have the contract to operate both terminals until 2032.
Flight Schedule
Izmir airport operates flights to and from 49 countries and 121 destinations around the world. Twenty-eight airlines operate out of it, and it has a designated cargo centre. During the main seasons from May to October, the overseas flying schedule runs at 100% and dials down in winter, when the official tourism season has finished. Flights to other destinations in Turkey operate all year round and connect to the new Istanbul airport, with a more extensive schedule.
Food, Duty-Free, and Wi-fi
For those catching connecting flights, both terminals sit within the same building and a 5-minute walk of each other. Otherwise, there is an extensive range of faculties throughout Izmir airport, including prayer rooms, luggage wraps, and food and dining establishments. The duty-free is run by AVU, which have four establishments covering 1,881 square metres. In addition, Izmir airport has an open wi-fi signal which is free to use. There is an official app for passengers to download that includes maps detailing all shops, bars and restaurants.
Smoking Rooms and Lounges
Although the official website for Izmir airport states there are no smoking rooms, there are currently areas for smokers. In the international section, these are located at the far left, if looking out the big windows and at the bottom of the escalator. In domestic, this area is near the Turkish Airline's lounge. In addition, both terminals have a Prime Class Lounge, but smoking is prohibited in these.
Transport To and From Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport
The airport has capacity for 2353 cars in the parking area. For transports options, car rental companies offer reasonable prices and are in departures. Additionally, three bus services operating from Izmir airport head into the main city centre. All taxis are yellow and run on meters, as well as adding a pick-up fee. Furthermore, the official Izmir airport shuttle system, called Havas, runs six lines to Aydin, Kusadasi, Manisa, the town centre, and Cesme and Urla towns. Lastly, the subway offers the north and south lines that cover 31 stations in total.
COVID Precautions
Anyone entering Adnan Menderes airport must wear a mask, and will also have their temperature checked. In the event, it is higher than 37 degrees, they will be sent to the health authorities. To limit the spread of COVID, the airport has mapped out routes to ensure social distancing according to the Airports Pandemic Precautions and Certification Circular issued by the Turkish government. They also increased their disinfection and cleaning procedures, and boarding now takes place with passengers sitting on the back seats going first. There is also a COVID testing point in the international arrivals terminal.
Around Izmir
Izmir is a progressive and lively centre of arts and trade, with its annual trade fair attracting a million visitors everywhere. In addition, there are beautiful mosques and bustling bazaars in this ancient centre of Izmir. Otherwise, heading to the outskirts, you will discover the best towns of Alacati, and coastal Cesme, famed for its thermal springs, beaches, and heady nightlife; the quiet natural beauty of Foca; and the ever-popular Kusadasi. Find out more in our official area guide to Izmir.
More Reading About Turkey
If you found this guide to Izmir Adnan Menderes airport useful, you might also like to read our blog about Turkey. Containing lots of helpful information, it focuses on travel, food, history, Turkish culture, and prominent destinations within Turkey.