The Turkish National Football Team, embarking on its journey to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, was bid farewell from the JETEX-İGA Premium Passenger Terminal at Istanbul Airport. The facility, recognized as the world’s largest independent VIP terminal, hosted one of its first major events.
The JETEX-İGA Premium Passenger Terminal, which entered service at Istanbul Airport last month, this time became the venue for one of Türkiye’s most important sporting events. As part of the preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Turkish National Football Team departed for the United States following a special send-off ceremony organized at the premium terminal. In doing so, the facility, promoted as the world’s largest independent VIP terminal, hosted its first internationally high-profile event since opening.
Following the completion of special procedures at the terminal, the national players and coaching staff departed for the United States, while the premium passenger experience offered by the JETEX-İGA Premium Terminal once again came to the forefront.
JETEX-İGA Premium Terminal Hosts the National Team for the First Time
Developed through the collaboration of İGA Istanbul Airport and Jetex, the JETEX-İGA Premium Passenger Terminal stands out with its approximately 5,000-square-meter area and high-end service concept. The terminal serves both scheduled airline passengers and private jet users.
A New Era in Premium Travel
The terminal features private suites, VIP lounges, restaurants, concierge services, fast-track passport control, and dedicated security screening points. Passengers can also be transferred directly to their aircraft via private vehicles. Through these services, Istanbul Airport aims to usher in a new era of premium travel experiences.
Contributing to Istanbul’s Global Aviation Ambitions
With the opening of the JETEX-İGA Premium Terminal, Istanbul Airport aims to strengthen its position not only in scheduled aviation but also in VIP transportation and business aviation on a global scale. Officials from İGA and Jetex emphasize that the terminal will help establish Istanbul as a key hub in the premium travel and private aviation market.
The National Team’s decision to begin its World Cup journey from this terminal is also regarded as one of the developments enhancing the facility’s international prestige.
Final Preparations Ahead of the World Cup
Competing in Group D alongside the United States, Australia, and Paraguay, the Turkish National Football Team will play its final warm-up match against Venezuela on June 7 before the tournament. The Crescent-Stars will then begin their World Cup group-stage campaign against Australia on June 14.
