Selahattin Bilgen, Acting CEO of IGA Istanbul Airport, unveiled the airport’s 2024 objectives after assessing the performance in 2023. Despite challenges posed by the pandemic, Bilgen expressed pride in transporting 76 million passengers in 2023 and outlined plans to surpass 85 million in 2024. Additionally, he highlighted the increased flight numbers, leading to Istanbul Airport earning the title of “Europe’s Busiest Airport” in 2023.
Among the airport’s 2024 investment targets are significant projects such as the General Aviation Terminal, Eskişehir GES Project, Hilton Istanbul Airport, and the construction of East-West and North-South runways. These projects aim to enhance Istanbul Airport’s capacity and facilities. Planning a total investment of 656.5 million euros, Istanbul Airport aspires to provide improved services for air traffic.
Bilgen emphasized Istanbul Airport’s global prominence in terms of destination count and the number of airline companies. Revealing plans to attract 11 new airline companies to Istanbul in 2024, Bilgen anticipated achieving a significant international position. The continued preference of airline companies for Istanbul will contribute to the airport’s growing impact in the international market.
Highlighting Istanbul Airport’s success in cargo transportation, Bilgen pointed out its status as a significant global cargo center. The goal for 2024 is to have a cargo capacity nearly three times that of Hong Kong, attracting investments from major global cargo firms. This ongoing investment is expected to sustain the growth in cargo transportation.
Istanbul Airport has the potential to become one of the leading airports globally, hosting a substantial number of airline companies, aligned with its objectives. With new investments, Istanbul Airport aims to enhance its competitiveness and establish a more influential position in the international arena.
