IGA Istanbul Airport: Pioneering the Future of Global Air Connectivity

A recent publication by Airports Council International Europe (ACI EUROPE) reveals that iGA Istanbul Airport has surged to the forefront in the 2025 airport Industry Connectivity Report, surpassing Frankfurt Airport, which had long held the title of the most connected global hub.

The report,crafted in collaboration with SEO Amsterdam Economics,indicates that iGA Istanbul airport has boosted its global connectivity by an impressive 59% as 2019. This remarkable growth places it ahead of other major airports like Dallas Fort worth and Frankfurt, which now occupy second and third place respectively. In contrast,Frankfurt has experienced a notable decline of 21% in its global connectivity during this timeframe.

Several factors contribute to iGA’s ascent according to ACI EUROPE. These include turkish airlines’ extensive network reaching across continents, Istanbul’s strategic location as a natural meeting point for different regions, high operational capacity at the airport itself, and supportive aviation policies from Turkey’s government.

Moreover, iGA continues to excel in Direct Connectivity; it proudly holds the top position in Europe for two consecutive years. As 2019, it has increased its direct air connections by 13%, climbing from fifth place pre-pandemic to become Europe’s leading airport for direct routes.

Selahattin Bilgen, CEO of iGA Istanbul Airport shared his thoughts:

“Our expanding network and prime location have solidified Istanbul’s status as a pivotal player in global aviation.This achievement is not just notable for our airport but also serves as a source of pride for Türkiye and our region.”

“The findings from ACI EUROPE affirm that we are not only a regional hub but also an essential player on the international stage. Our strong performance across both direct and connecting flights highlights our vital role in worldwide air travel.”

“In response to changing demands post-pandemic, we have made ample investments into infrastructure improvements and digital advancements while enhancing passenger experiences.Looking forward, we are dedicated to enduring growth that enhances connectivity while ensuring every journey is world-class.”