Istanbul’s Airport Traffic Surge in 2024
In the first seven months of 2024, Türkiye’s airports witnessed a remarkable growth in passenger numbers, with an increase of 9.9 percent, totaling 129.6 million travelers. This significant rise highlights the ongoing recovery and expansion of air travel in the region.
International and Domestic Passenger Growth
According to statistics released by the General Directorate of State Airports Authority (DHMİ), the number of international passengers soared by 11 percent compared to the same period last year, exceeding 70 million. Meanwhile, domestic air traffic also experienced growth, albeit at a more moderate rate of 8.4 percent, bringing the total domestic passengers to 55.5 million.
Istanbul Airport Statistics
Istanbul Airport, a key hub in the region, accommodated 45.7 million passengers from January to July, reflecting a 6 percent increase over the previous year. Notably, international travelers accounted for a significant portion of this increase, rising by 9 percent to reach 35.8 million. However, the airport did experience a slight drop of 4 percent in domestic passenger numbers, which totaled 9.9 million.
Sabiha Gökçen Airport Performance
On the Asian side of Istanbul, Sabiha Gökçen Airport reported an impressive 16 percent growth in total passenger traffic, reaching 23.7 million. The influx of international and domestic travelers rose by 14 percent and 18 percent, respectively, resulting in 12.3 million international passengers and 11.3 million domestic passengers.
Resort Airports and Overall Trends
Airports located in popular holiday destinations also contributed to the overall increase, serving 32.6 million passengers in the first seven months of 2024. This included 10.5 million domestic travelers and 22 million international visitors. For example, the Mediterranean province of Antalya experienced a notable 10 percent year-on-year increase in international passenger traffic, reaching 16.4 million.
July Passenger Traffic Insights
In July alone, domestic passenger numbers grew by 0.6 percent from the previous year, totaling 9.4 million, while international passenger traffic experienced a 3.9 percent increase, amounting to 15.5 million.
Commercial Flight Activity
Throughout the first seven months of the year, commercial flight operations showed positive trends as well. Domestic flights increased by 4.2 percent, totaling 208,757, while international flights rose by 8.8 percent, reaching 462,138, as per DHMİ’s data.
