Istanbul Airport unveils visionary plans for 2024: a year of transformative investments

iGA Istanbul Airport, a key global transfer hub, has set its sights on a groundbreaking “Year of Investments” in 2024, pledging a remarkable 656.5 million Euros in strategic developments.

Selahattin Bilgen, CEO at iGA Istanbul Airport, revealed these ambitious plans during the annual press conference, outlining the focus on passenger experience, infrastructure, and sustainability.

Selahattin Bilgen: Istanbul Airport CEO

In a bid to enhance its status as Europe’s Busiest Airport, iGA Istanbul Airport plans to cater to 85 million passengers in 2024, a 12.77% increase from the previous year.

Bilgen highlighted the intention to elevate the number of flights to 532,000, a testament to the airport’s continued growth and influence.

Bilgen underlined iGA’s commitment to its role as a global aviation leader by welcoming eleven new airlines by the end of 2024, bringing the total to an impressive 101.

This move solidifies iGA Istanbul Airport’s position among the top three airports globally in terms of served airline companies.

In a bid to optimise operations, iGA Istanbul Airport is set to implement Europe’s first triple parallel runway system in 2024.

Bilgen emphasised,

We will break new ground among ICAO member nations with our triple independent runway operations, targeting the highest efficiency and capacity.

Underscoring their dedication to sustainable practices, Bilgen announced an extensive investment plan for 2024, with a particular focus on renewable energy. Notably, iGA Istanbul Airport aims to become the world’s first airport to meet all its electricity needs through a 199.32 MWe unlicensed Solar Power Plant in Eskişehir, with an anticipated annual energy production of 340,446,833 kWh/year.

iGA Istanbul Airport’s cargo expansion is noteworthy, with a cargo area now three times the size of Hong Kong Airport’s. The collaboration with FedEx Express and Trendyol adds another dimension to their global reach, positioning iGA Istanbul Airport as a hub connecting Asia and Africa.

In line with its commitment to environmental responsibility, iGA Istanbul Airport is striving for ‘Net Zero CO2 Emissions’ by reducing emissions by 45% in six years.

Bilgen revealed plans to achieve a 73% emission reduction by 2040 and reach Net Zero Emissions by 2050, showcasing the airport’s dedication to sustainable practices.

Highlighting their success in the ACI Airports Carbon Accreditation program, Bilgen noted achievements such as a nearly 11% decrease in energy consumption, a 5% reduction in water footprint, and 35% waste recycling, reinforcing iGA Istanbul Airport’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

Closing the conference, Bilgen expressed confidence in the airport’s continuous improvement in passenger satisfaction. GfK Research Company reported a 89% appreciation rate in 2023, a figure expected to rise further with the completion of ongoing projects.

For further information about flights to, from and via iGA Istanbul Airport contact your Global Travel Account Manager.