Turkish Airlines, the national flag carrier of Türkiye, is celebrating a landmark moment in the nation’s aviation history as iGA Istanbul Airport becomes the first in Europe to implement Triple Independent Runway Operations. This significant development further strengthens the airport’s status as a global hub and underscores Türkiye’s strategic position at the crossroads of international air travel.
Triple Runways Now in Use at iGA Istanbul by Turkish Airlines
In a landmark moment for Turkish and European aviation, Türkiye’s Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Abdulkadir Uraloğlu, launched the groundbreaking Triple Independent Runway Operations at iGA Istanbul Airport.
The grand opening was attended by top aviation leaders including Enes Çakmak, Chairman of the Board and General Director of the General Directorate of State Airports Authority (DHMI); Prof. Ahmet Bolat, Chairman of the Board and Executive Committee of Turkish Airlines; and Mehmet Kalyoncu, Board Member of iGA Istanbul Airport, alongside other distinguished guests.
Marking a significant milestone, three Turkish Airlines aircraft took off simultaneously during live operations – showcasing not only the advanced capabilities of the airport but also underscoring Türkiye’s efforts in advancing within the aviation sector.
Highlighting the pivotal nature of the achievement, Minister Uraloğlu said:
“We are proud that Türkiye is now the only country in Europe to implement Triple Independent Runway Operations. Istanbul Airport has firmly positioned itself among the world’s leading aviation hubs—not just in terms of traffic, but with operational excellence and technical prowess. This new system will accelerate air traffic flow, boost our airport’s dynamic capacity, and provide passengers with faster, safer service. Coupled with Istanbul’s strategic role as a bridge between continents, this innovation cements our airport’s importance in the global logistics network.”
Turkish Airlines Chairman Prof. Ahmet Bolat contributed to this, adding:
“We are proud to contribute to yet another historic milestone in Turkish aviation. The simultaneous takeoff of three of our aircraft is not only a first in Europe—it’s a testament to the growing sophistication of our main hub. This enhanced operational capacity will improve flight efficiency and serve as a cornerstone in our ongoing growth strategy.”
Speaking on behalf of iGA Istanbul Airport, Board Member Mehmet Kalyoncu remarked:
“As of April 17, 2025, we have officially launched Triple Independent Runway Operations—a first for Europe and a major advancement in international aviation. This is more than a technical feat; it’s a strategic breakthrough. With this system, our hourly aircraft movement capacity has increased from 120 to 148. This not only optimises Istanbul’s airspace but also contributes to Europe’s overall aviation efficiency. Istanbul is no longer just a destination—it’s a global aviation hub.”
The launch of Triple Independent Runway Operations has the potential to significantly boost iGA Istanbul Airport’s efficiency, reducing delays and improving punctuality. For Turkish Airlines, this translates to shorter taxi times, greater on-time performance, and a more seamless travel experience for passengers. Additionally, the system supports the airline’s environmental goals by reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions.
As iGA Istanbul Airport advances toward its vision of serving 200 million passengers annually, this operational leap is perfectly aligned with Turkish Airlines’ commitment to world-class connectivity, exceptional service, and forward-looking infrastructure. Enhanced punctuality—especially critical across a network of over 1,000 daily flights—strengthens the airline’s financial efficiency and guest satisfaction.
This achievement demonstrates Türkiye’s aviation leadership but also secures iGA Istanbul Airport’s position as a global hub that can match other international airports.
Who are Turkish Airlines?
Founded in 1933 with just five aircraft, Turkish Airlines has evolved into one of the world’s leading carriers, currently flying to over 340 destinations across more than 130 countries—more than any other airline globally. Headquartered in Istanbul, the airline operates out of its state-of-the-art hub at iGA Istanbul Airport, strategically positioned to connect East and West. Operating from its main hub at iGA Istanbul Airport, Turkish Airlines offers passengers a seamless blend of Eastern hospitality and modern aviation excellence, connecting continents and cultures at 35,000 feet.
Renowned for its award-winning service, Turkish Airlines offers a premium onboard experience that blends traditional Turkish hospitality with modern comfort and innovation. The airline is a member of the Star Alliance network and plays a vital role in shaping the future of global aviation through its expansive route network, sustainability initiatives, and investment in next-generation aircraft.
With a strong commitment to operational excellence, customer satisfaction, and environmental responsibility, Turkish Airlines continues to be a symbol of national pride and a global ambassador for Türkiye’s aviation sector.
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