Ercan Airport

Ercan Airport (ECN) serves as the primary and most modern aerial gateway welcoming travellers to the northern part of the island. Opened in 2023, the spacious new terminal has become a symbol of hospitality and comfort, offering passengers first-class service from the very first moments of their stay. This airport plays a key role in the region's transport infrastructure, serving as the starting point for exploring numerous resorts and historical landmarks. It is here that the majority of tourists arrive, eager to discover this amazing part of the Mediterranean.

The new terminal at Ercan Airport has been designed with all modern requirements for comfortable travel in mind. With an increased area and a capacity of up to 10 million people per year, it is capable of handling large aircraft, which positively impacts the region's accessibility. Passengers have access to spacious waiting lounges, Duty Free shops, a variety of cafes and restaurants, free Wi-Fi, bank branches, and currency exchange points. Car rental services, taxis, and bus transfers to major cities such as Nicosia, Kyrenia, and Famagusta are also available for travellers.

For your convenience, we have compiled the essential contact information for Ercan Airport (ECN) to help you navigate upon arrival or before departure.

• Official Website: www.ercanhavalimani.com. The site provides up-to-date flight schedules, terminal maps, and information on passenger services.
• Information Desk Phone: +90 392 600 50 00. You can call this number to clarify flight details or ask general questions about the airport's operations.
• Address: Ercan Havaalanı, Kırklar, Nicosia.
• Email: For general inquiries, you can use the address info@ercanhavalimani.com.
• Social Media: Follow the latest news and updates on the airport's official social media pages.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you must immediately contact the Lost and Found counter in the arrivals hall or your airline's representative office.
• Passenger Support Service: Assistance and consultation can be obtained at the information desk within the terminal or by calling the airport's inquiry service.

There are several ways to get to Ercan Airport (ECN), located in the northern part of Cyprus. The best option depends on your budget, departure point, and comfort preferences. The main transport options include shuttle buses, taxis, and rental cars.

Public Transport is primarily represented by special shuttle buses (e.g., the Kibhas company). This is the most budget-friendly way to reach the airport. Buses run regularly between the airport and major cities such as Nicosia (Lefkoşa), Kyrenia (Girne), and Famagusta (Gazimağusa). It is recommended to check the schedule in advance on the carriers' websites, as it may change depending on the season and time of day. Please note that there is no railway or metro service on the island.

Taxi or Private Transfer is the most convenient and fastest option. A car can be taken from the designated stand right at the terminal exit or booked in advance via online services, which is often more cost-effective. The journey from the centre of Nicosia to Ercan Airport takes approximately 30-40 minutes. This method is ideal for travellers with heavy luggage or those who value personal space and speed.

Car Rental offers maximum freedom of movement, especially if you plan to actively explore the surroundings. Most major rental companies have counters directly inside the airport building, allowing you to collect keys immediately upon arrival or return the car right before departure. This is an excellent choice for independent tourists who wish to create their own itinerary.

For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, parking is available. There are both short-term and long-term parking zones adjacent to the terminal. This is a convenient option if you need to leave the car for a few hours or for the entire duration of your absence.

Ercan Airport (ECN) currently services all passenger flights through one modern terminal, opened in 2023. The old airport building is no longer used for passenger transport, so all navigation for travellers is concentrated within one large and convenient complex. This significantly simplifies orientation, as you will not need to move between different buildings.

The terminal structure is intuitive and complies with international standards. The Departures Zone is located on the upper floor, while the Arrivals Zone is on the lower floor. Upon entering the building, you find yourself in a spacious general hall with numerous check-in counters. After receiving a boarding pass and checking in luggage, passengers proceed to passport control and security checkpoints, beyond which access opens to the boarding gates, Duty Free shops, and the food court.

Navigating the terminal is straightforward thanks to clear signage in Turkish and English, as well as electronic boards with flight information. Since the terminal is new and spacious, allow sufficient time not only for mandatory procedures but also to walk to your required gate without rushing.

It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before the departure of an international flight to complete check-in and pre-flight security checks. This time is usually sufficient to calmly check in luggage, complete all formalities, and find your boarding gate. During periods of high traffic, such as the peak tourist season, it is better to arrive with a little extra time to spare.

The history of Ercan Airport (ECN) dates back to the Second World War when British authorities constructed a military airfield here called Tymbou. For many years, it served exclusively military purposes and did not accept civilian flights. This period laid the foundation for future aviation infrastructure in the area.

A key moment in the airport's history occurred in 1974. Following the events of that year, the airfield was transferred to civil aviation management, and its transformation into a fully-fledged passenger airport began. It was then that it received its current name—Ercan—in honour of the Turkish military pilot Fehmi Ercan, who lost his life during the conflict. Opening to civilian flights marked a new chapter in its development, turning a former military facility into a vital transport hub.

Over the years, the airport has been continuously modernised to cope with growing passenger traffic. However, the most significant reconstruction was the opening of a completely new terminal and runway in the summer of 2023. This modern complex, significantly exceeding the old one in size and capacity, has elevated the airport to a new level of comfort and technology. The new terminal is designed to handle up to 10 million passengers per year, which is a true achievement and a record for the airport.

Today, Ercan Airport continues to play a central role in the region's transport system. An interesting fact: due to the airport's specific status, virtually all international flights arriving at or departing from Ercan make a mandatory short stopover at one of Turkey's airports. This aspect makes it unique in the global civil aviation system.

Ercan Airport (ECN) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight in a modern and spacious terminal. Here you will find numerous amenities that will make your journey more pleasant from the very beginning.

For those feeling hungry, there are various cafes and restaurants offering both light snacks and full meals. A large Duty Free shop is located in the departure zone, featuring a classic assortment of perfumes, confectionery, and other goods. Additionally, there are several shops where you can purchase local souvenirs and travel essentials.

Passengers wishing to relax in a quieter environment can utilise the services of the VIP Lounge. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and special charging stations and power outlets are equipped in the waiting halls for recharging gadgets.

Practical matters are easily resolved within the terminal: bank branches, currency exchange points, and ATMs are available. In case of unforeseen health issues, a round-the-clock medical point is provided to administer first aid.

All conditions have been created for family travellers. The airport features nursing rooms as well as small play areas to ensure young passengers do not get bored. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with all necessary assistance and escorting upon prior request to the airline.

Although there are no hotels directly on the airport premises, accommodation to suit any taste and budget is located a few minutes' drive away. Dedicated conference rooms are not provided in the terminal, but basic business services may be available in the VIP lounge.

At Ercan Airport (ECN), passengers will find several options for a snack or a full meal while waiting for their flight. The main concentration of cafes and restaurants is found in the departure zone, after passing passport control and security (airside), allowing you to settle in comfortably and enjoy your food without rushing before boarding.

In the "secure zone" of the departure terminal, both international chains and establishments with local flair are represented. Here you can find coffee shops, such as Gloria Jean's Coffees, serving familiar beverages and desserts. For those wishing to try something local, it is worth looking for pastries or sandwiches with traditional hellim (halloumi) cheese. For a more substantial meal, quick-service restaurants are available, offering burgers, pizza, and other popular dishes.

If you follow a specific diet, choices may be limited. Vegetarian options, such as salads or meat-free pastries, are easy to find. However, specialised vegan or gluten-free menus are generally not available. Most meat dishes comply with Halal standards. Prices in airport establishments are expectedly higher than in the city. The operating hours of most cafes and restaurants are tied to the flight schedule, so they are open to serve passengers both during the day and in the evening.

For a quick snack, one of the coffee shops is ideal, where you can grab a sandwich and coffee to go. If you have an hour or more to spare, you can sit comfortably in one of the restaurants in the main departure hall. In the public zone before security control (landside), the choice of establishments is usually more modest and may be limited to a small cafe for those meeting or seeing off passengers.

Planning a trip through Ercan Airport in Ercan will go smoothly if you take note of a few useful tips. This guide will help you navigate the airport and avoid unpleasant surprises, making your journey around Cyprus as comfortable as possible from the start.

Arrival time at the airport. Although Ercan is not the largest airport, it can get quite crowded during the tourist season. We recommend arriving 2.5-3 hours before the departure of international flights. This time will be sufficient to check in, drop off luggage, and pass security control without rushing.

Check-in and Security. To speed up the process, use online check-in if your airline provides this option. Keep your passport and boarding pass ready. Security control procedures are standard, but it is always useful to check current rules in advance to avoid delays.

Choosing a seat on the plane. If you want to enjoy picturesque views of the Mediterranean Sea and the coast of Cyprus during take-off or landing, choose a window seat. If comfort and the ability to stand up freely are more important to you, your choice is an aisle seat.

Hand Luggage. The rules for carrying hand luggage are standard: liquids in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag, and no sharp or cutting objects. However, different airlines may have their own restrictions on weight and dimensions, so be sure to verify this information on your carrier's website.

Transfer Passengers. If you have a connecting flight, clarify in advance whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage at Ercan. Ensure you have enough time between flights, especially if you are flying with different airlines.

Customs Control. This aspect requires special attention, especially if you plan to travel between the northern and southern parts of the island. There are restrictions on transporting certain goods, such as tobacco products and alcohol. Before your trip, familiarise yourself with the current customs regulations to avoid fines.

Saving Time and Money. Exchange a small amount into Turkish Lira (TRY) in advance, as this is the main currency in Northern Cyprus. Prices for food and drinks at the airport can be inflated, so you can bring an empty water bottle to fill after security screening, as well as a light snack permitted for carriage.

In Case of Flight Delay. In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, contact your airline representative immediately. Depending on the length of the wait, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses to claim compensation later.