Imagine standing at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, where a modern airport with wings spread wide welcomes travelers from across the globe. This is Ankara Esenboğa International Airport, the aerial gateway to Turkey's capital—a vibrant hub of opportunity and connectivity.
With the IATA code ESB and ICAO designation LTAC, Esenboğa International Airport has served as Ankara's primary aviation facility since its inauguration in 1955. Located approximately 28 kilometers northeast of the city center, this strategically positioned airport has grown to become Turkey's fifth busiest, functioning as both an economic catalyst and a critical bridge between Turkey and international destinations.
Operated by TAV Airports Holding, Esenboğa International Airport has earned recognition for its operational efficiency and modern infrastructure. The facility boasts two parallel asphalt runways—each measuring 3,750 meters in length—capable of accommodating all types of aircraft. The 03R/21L runway features a 60-meter width, while 03L/21R spans 45 meters, ensuring safe operations under diverse conditions.
The airport's modern terminal building, opened in October 2006, consolidated international and domestic operations under one roof. Spanning 168,000 square meters, the terminal can handle up to 10 million passengers annually. Its design incorporates 18 jet bridges, 105 check-in counters, and 34 passport control stations, streamlining passenger flow. Ground transportation needs are met by a spacious parking facility accommodating 4,000 vehicles.
At an elevation of 953 meters (3,125 feet) above sea level, Esenboğa International Airport serves as a base for numerous carriers including Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, and Azerbaijan Airlines. These operators maintain regular service to major cities across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond, effectively linking Ankara to global commerce and cultural exchange.
Recent years have witnessed sustained growth in passenger traffic, driven by Turkey's economic expansion and booming tourism sector. To meet increasing demand, airport authorities have implemented continuous upgrades and service enhancements, prioritizing passenger comfort and operational efficiency.
As Turkey's capital airport, Esenboğa International Airport remains poised to strengthen its role in facilitating international dialogue, trade, and development. More than a transit point, it serves as a dynamic nexus where cultures converge and opportunities take flight. Through ongoing innovation and improvement, this aviation hub continues to solidify its position as a shining star in Turkey's—and the world's—aviation landscape.