Making a connecting flight at Istanbul Airport? This guide will help you navigate the transit process smoothly. Whether you have a short layover or an extended stay, we'll help you make the most of your time at the airport.
**What to Expect:** Transit procedures at Istanbul Airport depend on several factors: whether you're staying airside (within the terminal) or need to go through immigration, your layover duration, and whether your bags are checked through to your final destination.
**Types of Transfers:** - **Airside Transfer**: Your bags are checked through and you stay within the secure area - **Landside Transfer**: You need to collect baggage, go through immigration, and re-check in - **Same Terminal**: Both flights use the same terminal - **Terminal Transfer**: You need to move between terminals
**Pro Tips:** - Check your baggage tags - if checked through, you won't need to collect them - Confirm your gate assignment for your connecting flight - Use your layover time to explore the airport's facilities - Stay hydrated and comfortable during your wait
Step-by-Step Arrival Process
1
Follow Transit Signs
After disembarking, follow the "Transit/Connecting Flights" signs. Do NOT follow signs for "Arrivals" or "Baggage Claim" unless you need to collect your luggage or leave the terminal.
Estimated time: 5-10 minutes
Tips
Look for overhead signs with "Transit" or "Connecting Flights" indicators
Don't follow the crowd to arrivals if you're in transit
Transit signs are usually in yellow or green
If unsure, ask airport staff wearing uniforms
Keep your boarding pass for your next flight accessible
Important
Following the wrong signs may lead you to immigration and require a visa
If you exit to arrivals, you'll need to go through security and immigration again
2
Check Your Baggage Status
Check if your baggage is checked through to your final destination. Look at your baggage tags - if they show your final destination, you don't need to collect them. If they show Istanbul Airport only, you'll need to collect and re-check.
Estimated time: 5 minutes
Tips
Check your baggage claim tags - they show the final destination
If tags show your final destination, you can skip baggage claim
3
Go Through Security Screening
Even for airside transfers, you may need to go through security screening again. This is a standard procedure for connecting flights. Remove liquids, electronics, and metal items as instructed.
Estimated time: 10-15 minutes
Tips
Have liquids ready in 100ml containers in a clear bag
Remove electronics and place them in trays
4
Find Your Connecting Flight Gate
Check the flight information displays for your connecting flight's gate number and terminal. Gates are typically assigned 2-3 hours before departure but may change. Confirm your gate before proceeding.
Estimated time: 10-20 minutes
Tips
Check flight information displays for your flight number and gate
Gates may change - check regularly or use the airport app
5
Enjoy Your Layover (If Time Permits)
If you have a long layover, explore the airport's facilities. Istanbul Airport offers extensive shopping, dining, lounges, and relaxation areas. Make sure to return to your gate in time for boarding.
Estimated time: Varies by layover duration
Tips
Short layovers (1-2 hours): Stay near your gate
Medium layovers (2-4 hours): Explore nearby shops and restaurants
6
Board Your Connecting Flight
Listen for boarding announcements and proceed to your gate when called. Have your boarding pass and passport ready. Boarding typically starts 30-40 minutes before departure.
Estimated time: 20-30 minutes
Tips
Listen for boarding announcements in multiple languages
Have your boarding pass and passport ready
Airport Facilities
Transit Desks
Information desks specifically for transit passengers. Staff can help with gate information and transfers.
Luggage Storage
Store your carry-on luggage if you want to explore the airport hands-free during a long layover.
Transit Hotels
YOTEL hotel offers rooms for short stays. Perfect for long layovers or overnight connections.
Duty-Free Shopping
Extensive shopping available airside. Turkish specialties, electronics, cosmetics, and souvenirs.
Tips for Passengers
Check Baggage Status
Verify if your baggage is checked through to your final destination. This determines if you need to go through immigration.
Visa Requirements
If you need to leave the terminal (landside transfer), check if you need a transit visa for Turkey. Airside transfers typically don't require a visa.
Layover Time
Short layovers (under 90 minutes): Stay near your gate. Long layovers (4+ hours): Consider exploring or using a lounge/hotel.
Gate Information
Check gate assignments regularly as they can change. Use flight information displays or the airport app for updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to collect my baggage during transit?
This depends on your airline and ticket. If your baggage is checked through to your final destination (check your baggage tags), you don't need to collect it. If your tags show Istanbul Airport only, you'll need to collect and re-check. Ask your airline if unsure.
Do I need a visa for transit?
If you're staying airside (within the secure terminal area), you typically don't need a visa. If you need to leave the terminal (for baggage collection, hotel stay, or city tour), you may need a transit visa. Check Turkey's visa requirements based on your nationality.
What if my layover is very short (under 60 minutes)?
For short layovers, proceed directly to your connecting gate. Don't stop for shopping or dining. If your connection is tight, inform airline staff upon arrival - they may be able to assist with expedited transfer.
Can I leave the airport during a long layover?
Quick Info
Total Steps6
Process Overview:
1Follow Transit Signs
2Check Your Baggage Status
3Go Through Security Screening
4Find Your Connecting Flight Gate
5Enjoy Your Layover (If Time Permits)
6Board Your Connecting Flight
If unsure, ask your airline or check at the transit desk
Keep your baggage claim tickets safe
For airside transfers, you typically don't need to collect baggage
Important
Collecting baggage when not needed may require going through immigration
If you need to collect baggage, allow extra time (30-60 minutes)
Some airlines require baggage collection and re-check even for connections
Keep your boarding pass and passport accessible
Follow security staff instructions
Transit security is usually faster than departure security
Important
Liquids purchased in duty-free from your origin airport may need to be checked
Some items may need to be re-screened even if purchased airside
Note your departure time and allow enough time to reach the gate
If terminals are different, use the inter-terminal transportation
Gates typically close 20-30 minutes before departure
Important
Gate changes are common - always verify before heading to your gate
Terminal transfers may require additional time (15-30 minutes)
Arrive at your gate at least 45 minutes before departure
Long layovers (4+ hours): Consider a lounge, hotel, or city tour
Use free WiFi to stay connected and check flight updates
YOTEL hotel offers rooms for short stays (book in advance)
Important
Don't lose track of time - set alarms for boarding time
Account for walking time back to your gate
Some activities may require leaving the secure area (check visa requirements)
Boarding usually starts with priority passengers, then by row
If you missed boarding, contact your airline immediately
Confirm your seat number before boarding
Important
Late arrival at gate may result in denied boarding
Gates close 20-30 minutes before departure
If you miss your connection, contact your airline for rebooking
Restaurants & Cafés
50+ dining options airside. Turkish and international cuisine available 24/7.
Free WiFi & Charging
Free WiFi throughout the terminal. USB charging stations available at gates and lounges.
Security Screening
Even for airside transfers, you may need to go through security again. Have liquids and electronics ready.
Ask for Help
If you're unsure about your connection, ask at transit desks or information counters. Staff are trained to help connecting passengers.
Yes, if you have a long layover (typically 6+ hours) and the required visa, you can leave the airport. However, you'll need to go through immigration, collect baggage if needed, and return through security. Allow at least 3 hours before your next flight to return and clear security.
What if I miss my connecting flight?
Contact your airline immediately. They will rebook you on the next available flight. If the delay was due to your first flight being late, the airline is typically responsible for rebooking and accommodation if needed.
Are there facilities for long layovers?
Yes, Istanbul Airport offers YOTEL hotel rooms, lounges, restaurants, shopping, and relaxation areas. For very long layovers (8+ hours), you might consider a city tour (if you have a visa and time).
Do I need to go through passport control during transit?
For airside transfers (staying within the secure area), you typically don't need to go through passport control. Only if you need to leave the terminal (landside transfer) will you need to go through immigration.
Can I shop at duty-free during transit?
Yes, you can shop at duty-free stores airside. However, be aware of your final destination's customs allowances. Some countries have restrictions on items purchased in transit.
What if my connecting flight is in a different terminal?
Istanbul Airport has inter-terminal transportation. Follow signs for your terminal or ask airport staff. Allow extra time (15-30 minutes) for terminal transfers. The airport provides free shuttle services between terminals.
Is there a minimum connection time?
Yes, minimum connection times vary by airline and route. Typically 60-90 minutes for domestic connections and 90-120 minutes for international. Airlines won't book connections shorter than the minimum required time.
