Strengthening Türkiye’s position in global aviation as a key intercontinental hub, iGA Istanbul Airport ushered in a new era in aviation history with the launch of Europe’s first-ever “Triple Runway Operations.”
The operation was officially initiated by Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloğlu. From the Air Traffic Control (ATC) tower, Minister Uraloğlu gave the first command to Turkish Airlines pilots, enabling the simultaneous takeoff of three scheduled flights. This moment marked not only a milestone for iGA Istanbul Airport but also a turning point in the history of global aviation.
With this new system — expected to make a significant contribution to the Turkish economy — iGA Istanbul Airport now has the capacity for simultaneous takeoff and landing operations on three independent runways. As a result, the airport’s hourly air traffic capacity has increased from 120 to 148 aircraft movements. This operational transformation not only optimises traffic management in Istanbul but also across European airspace, making it faster, safer, and more efficient. The additional 28 aircraft movements per hour mean shorter waiting times for airlines, fewer delays for passengers, and reduced carbon emissions for the environment.
Paving the Way to 200 Million Passengers
This innovative system plays a crucial role in supporting iGA Istanbul Airport’s vision of accommodating 200 million passengers target. As a global transfer hub, the airport will now be able to manage its intense passenger and cargo traffic even more efficiently. It also ensures long-term sustainability by preparing the airport for future traffic volumes. A key component of this system, the Airport Collaborative Decision Making (A-CDM) system, enhances the predictability of air traffic movements, improves slot allocation, and ensures more efficient runway usage.
Commenting on the new capabilities, Mehmet Kalyoncu, Board Member of iGA Istanbul Airport said: “I am proud to state that as of today we are officially launching triple independent runway operations at iGA Istanbul Airport, setting a precedent in Europe and once again elevating Türkiye to the top in the field of aviation. This is not only a technical achievement for us, but also a strategic milestone. We have taken a significant step toward our goal of becoming one of the leading centers equipped with advanced technologies in global aviation. Today, we are commissioning the triple independent runway operations, a key pillar of this ecosystem. With this system, we are increasing our hourly air traffic capacity from 120 to 148 aircraft movements. This means not only Istanbul, but also Europe’s airspace will become more efficient. Istanbul is no longer just a destination—it is now a global air transport hub.”
500 Controllers, 4,500 Hours of Training
The transformation process at İGA Istanbul Airport began in 2022. In close cooperation with the General Directorate of State Airports Authority (DHMI), the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (SHGM), Turkish Airlines (THY), Eurocontrol, and other international authorities, a comprehensive safety analysis and airspace design process was carried out. During this period, a total of 500 air traffic controllers underwent 4,500 hours of training based on specially developed operational scenarios for the new system.
The new operational structure is supported by cutting-edge solutions such as advanced radar systems, full A-CDM integration, improved slot management, and digitally optimised taxi times.
In addition, close coordination with Eurocontrol ensures seamless integration with European airspace, reduces delays, and optimises traffic flow. Air traffic control teams use the latest radar systems, navigation tools, and predictive analytics to ensure smooth operations. Real-time data enables controllers to make quick, informed decisions, while predictive tools help visualise flight patterns and prevent potential runway conflicts — a critical advantage, especially during peak travel periods.
Even during its initial construction, the airport’s airside infrastructure was designed with this system in mind, ensuring readiness for future demands.
