*Last updated on: 27 May 2021

COVID-19 Safety Measures at Istanbul Airport

Istanbul Airport is the largest and busiest international airport in Turkey. The airport has implemented a series of enhanced safety measures in light of the global coronavirus pandemic. This includes some of the world’s leading technical cleaning and screening innovations in the fight against COVID-19. Passengers departing from or arriving in Istanbul by air should familiarise themselves with all the COVID-19 safety measures at Istanbul Airport before they travel.

What airport measures are currently in place for travellers upon arrival in Istanbul?

All international passengers will be able to have a free PCR, antibody or antigen test when they arrive at the airport, with results available in a matter of hours. Waiting is not permitted in the arrival terminal, so passengers who are being collected by car should arrange to meet their escort in the car park.

What airport measures are currently in place for travellers departing Istanbul?

Online check-in is encouraged where possible to reduce the risk of contagion. Passengers are also advised to check the status of their flight before traveling to the airport. Only passengers with a flight booking are permitted in the terminal building. Contactless control processes have been implemented at security to help reduce the risk of contagion further.

Are there any screening or PCR testing facilities available?

Thermal camera screening has been installed at the airport. These cameras can detect the temperature of individuals as they enter Istanbul Airport. Members of staff also patrol the airport wearing 'Smart Screening' helmets, which can also detect if any individuals have a high temperature. PCR testing is also available at the airport for arrivals passengers.

What about face masks and social distancing?

It is mandatory for passengers to wear face masks in the airport and in transit. Cashless PPE vending machines are available for those who need to purchase a mask or hand gel. Social distancing measures are in place throughout the airport including floor stickers in all queuing areas and density monitoring systems, which are in place to reduce crowding in areas such as toilets. Plexiglass shields which help protect both staff and passengers are in place in shops, check-in, information desks, passport control, baggage collection and security. Dynamic digital displays are in place throughout the airport and serve as useful reminders to passengers to socially distance, wear masks and regularly wash hands. There is also reduced capacity on airport shuttle services and seating areas, where signage is in place to remind passengers to distance.

What is Istanbul Airport’s COVID-19 cleaning policy?

Autonomous UV robotic floor cleaners are in constant use throughout the airport. Extensive manual disinfecting by human cleaners ensures all communal surfaces are frequently cleaned, including handles, door knobs, trolleys and airport security trays. UV sterilization technology is utilised throughout the airport, including on escalator handrails, at E-passport stations and even in security where it sterilizes baggage as it is checked. Medical waste bins and hand sanitizer stations are located throughout the airport. An advanced fresh air ventilation system is also in place which exhausts polluted air away from the airport and pumps clean air into the airport. Special sanitising floor mats help prevent the virus from entering the building.

Are the dining and shopping facilities open?

The majority of shops, duty free and dining facilities remain open at the airport. Food outlets have reduced capacity however, with tables and chairs distanced 2-metres apart and plexiglass screenings installed. All seating and tables are disinfected after each customer. Buffet food is not currently available at any of the food outlets at the airport and all snacks and takeaway foods are pre-packaged to reduce contagion.

What else do I need to know or do before traveling to or from Istanbul Airport?

Any non-Turkish passengers who test positive on arrival at the airport will be transported to a private hospital by Ministry of Health Border Officials. Turkish nationals who test positive on arrival will be transferred to a state hospital. A dedicated Hygiene Team patrols the airport at all times to ensure passengers are adhering to guidelines. The team is also on hand to help passengers with any Covid-related inquiries they may have. Book your next flight to Istanbul with BudgetAir and take advantage of competitive ticket prices across all seats.