The intensifying snowfall across Türkiye has begun to impact airport operations. Delays are occurring due to icy runways and reduced visibility, while some aircraft have been forced to divert to other airports. Although snowfall is not expected at Antalya Airport, adverse conditions such as rain and strong winds are anticipated to affect flight traffic.
Ministry of Transport: “We are ready with 800 personnel and 463 vehicles”
Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloğlu announced that all preparations for winter conditions have been completed. He stated that 800 personnel and 463 state-of-the-art snow-fighting vehicles under the General Directorate of State Airports Authority (DHMİ) are on standby, emphasising that operations are carried out in accordance with ICAO standards.
Uraloğlu said: “Our teams are on site 24/7 to clear runways, aprons, and taxiways of snow and ice. We are responding quickly and in coordination to ensure uninterrupted operations.”
Delays Expected in Domestic Flights to Antalya
The nationwide snowfall is indirectly affecting Antalya, which itself is not receiving snow. Due to poor weather conditions in other cities, delays, route changes, and an increase in diversions are expected for domestic flights arriving in Antalya.
As meteorological conditions worsen, aircraft departing from regions with heavy snowfall may be redirected to alternate airports before reaching Antalya.
Increase in Diversions
It is noted that on 13 November, several aircraft made emergency landings in Antalya due to adverse weather around Adana Çukurova Airport, while others were forced to hold for extended periods. Experts warn that such situations may become more frequent as winter conditions intensify.
Airlines are advising passengers to follow updated flight information closely.
