Esenboga International Airport

Welcome to Esenboga International Airport — the main air gateway to the capital of Turkey, the city of Ankara. Located 28 km northeast of the city centre, this modern and dynamically developing airport serves as a starting point for travel throughout the country and beyond. Its name, which translates as "Serene Bull", is linked to the warlord Isen Buga, whose troops were stationed here in the 15th century. Today, Esenboga is one of the busiest airports in Turkey, recognised with international awards for service quality and commitment to environmental standards.

Airport Features and Advantages

Esenboga Airport features a single modern terminal that serves both domestic and international flights, making transfers very convenient. The spacious and well-organised building was opened in 2006 and is designed to handle millions of passengers annually. Travellers have access to numerous shops, including Duty Free, a variety of cafes and restaurants, lounges, and free Wi-Fi throughout the area. For business class passengers and private jet owners, a separate General Aviation Terminal has been operating since 2012. Transport connections to the city are excellent: you can reach the centre of Ankara via Havaş or BelkoAir buses, or by taxi.

Below you will find contact information that may be useful when planning your trip through Esenboga Airport in Ankara.

• Official Website: The most up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport regulations can always be found on the official website: esb.tavairports.com.
• Information Desk Phone: For general inquiries, you can call: +90 312 590 40 00.
• Airport Address: Balıkhisar Mah, Esenboğa Havaalanı Girişi, 06970 Akyurt/Ankara, Türkiye.
• Email: To contact the customer service department, you can use the address: customeresb@tav.aero.
• Social Media: Follow airport news and updates on its official pages on Facebook, Twitter (X), and Instagram.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your belongings were lost on the plane, you must contact your airline's representative directly. For items left in the terminal building, please contact the Lost and Found office managed by TAV.
• Passenger Support Contacts: To resolve most issues, you can use the information desk phone number or the customer service email address listed above.

Esenboga Airport (ESB) is located approximately 28 kilometres northeast of the centre of Ankara and offers several convenient ways to get to the city and back. The best option depends on your budget, time, and comfort preferences.

Public Transport is the most economical method. The municipal bus route 442 (Belko Air) is the main carrier operating between the airport and key city points, including Kızılay central square and the AŞTİ intercity bus terminal. Buses depart around the clock with intervals ranging from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the time of day. The trip to the centre takes approximately 60–90 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This is an excellent choice for budget-conscious travellers.

Taxis and Private Transfers offer a faster and more comfortable way to reach your destination. Official taxi stands are located at the exits of the arrival terminals. A taxi ride to the centre of Ankara will take about 40–60 minutes. The cost will be significantly higher than the bus, but this is compensated by speed and convenience, especially if you are travelling with heavy luggage or in a group. For even greater convenience and a fixed price, you can book a private transfer in advance.

For those who value independence and plan to actively travel around the region of Turkey, car rental is a great solution. Both international and local rental companies have offices at Esenboga Airport. You can rent a car directly upon arrival or book online in advance. The road to the city is well-marked and in excellent condition.

If you are driving to the airport in your own or a rented vehicle, parking is available. The airport grounds feature both short-term and long-term parking zones located in immediate proximity to the terminals. This is a convenient, though not the cheapest, option if you need to leave your car for the duration of your trip.

Esenboga Airport (ESB) in Ankara is distinguished by a modern and very passenger-friendly structure. Its main feature is a single terminal complex that serves both domestic and international flights simultaneously. This significantly simplifies navigation, as there is no need to move between different buildings.

The terminal is divided into two main zones: Domestic Terminal (İç Hatlar) for internal flights within Turkey and International Terminal (Dış Hatlar) for international flights. Importantly, both zones are under one roof, and walking between them takes just a few minutes. All signs are duplicated in Turkish and English, making it easy to find your way.

The airport layout is logical and intuitive. Like most modern airports, it utilises vertical separation of passenger flows. The Upper Level (Departures) is designed for departing passengers: here you will find check-in counters, security checkpoints, and boarding gates. The Lower Level (Arrivals) serves arriving passengers — this is where baggage claim belts and exits to the city are located.

Thanks to good organisation, passing through pre-flight formalities at Esenboga Airport usually does not take much time. Nevertheless, it is worth arriving with time to spare: for international flights, it is recommended to arrive 2-3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 1.5-2 hours. This time is sufficient for a calm passage through all procedures even during peak hours.

The main advice for navigation is to watch the signs carefully. Since all services are in one building, getting lost here is virtually impossible. If you are transiting from an international flight to a domestic one (or vice versa), you simply need to move from one part of the terminal to the other, following the "Domestic Transfers" or "International Transfers" signs.

The history of Esenboga Airport is inextricably linked to the development of Ankara as the capital of Turkey. The decision to build it was made to replace the outdated Güvercinlik airfield, which could no longer cope with the city's growing needs. The airport was built between 1951 and 1955 and, from the moment of its opening, became the main arrival point for government delegations and international flights.

One of the most curious facts concerns the origin of the name. Although the word "Esenboga" can be translated as "healthy bull", in reality, the airport and the surrounding area were named after the Turkic warlord Isen Buga II. His troops were stationed here in the early 15th century during the famous Battle of Ankara, and this name became a tribute to the region's rich historical past.

Over the years, the airport has been modernised repeatedly, but the most significant phase occurred in the early 2000s. In 2006, a new modern terminal was grandly opened, combining the service of domestic and international flights. This project, implemented under the advanced "Build-Operate-Transfer" model of that time, set a new standard for the development of aviation infrastructure in the country.

The high quality of the new terminal was quickly noted by the international community. For its thoughtful design, first-class service, and implementation of eco-friendly technologies, Esenboga Airport was recognised as the Best Airport in Europe in 2009 by the Airports Council International (ACI Europe) in the 5 to 10 million passenger category. This success cemented its reputation as an important and efficient transport hub.

Esenboga Airport in Ankara offers passengers a full range of services, making the wait for a flight comfortable and productive. For those feeling hungry, there are plenty of options: from restaurants offering Turkish and international cuisine to cozy coffee shops and fast-food outlets. Shopping enthusiasts will appreciate the variety of stores, including a large Duty Free area where you can purchase perfumes, cosmetics, alcohol, and souvenirs.

For passengers preferring enhanced comfort, several business lounges and VIP lounges operate at the airport. Here you can relax in a quiet atmosphere, have a snack, and utilise additional services. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous gadget charging stations allow you to stay connected at all times. For business travellers, there are conference rooms and business centres equipped with everything necessary for work.

Financial matters are easily resolved at the airport: bank branches, 24-hour ATMs, and currency exchange points are at your service. In case of necessity, passengers can visit the medical point for first aid. For travellers with children, special mother and child rooms and play areas are equipped so that young passengers do not get bored while waiting for departure.

The airport is fully adapted to serve passengers with reduced mobility — a barrier-free environment has been created, and special assistance is provided upon prior request. If you have a long layover, you can stay at one of the hotels located in immediate proximity to the terminal, making the wait for the next flight as convenient as possible.

At Esenboga Airport (ESB), travellers will find diverse dining options capable of satisfying any taste and budget. Whether you are looking for a quick snack before departure or want to have a leisurely lunch, there is plenty to choose from. Catering establishments are located both in the public zone (landside) and in the sterile zone after security control (airside), in both the international and domestic terminals.

For those wanting to experience local cuisine, the airport has restaurants offering traditional Turkish dishes. Be sure to try kebab, pide (Turkish pizza), or have a cup of authentic Turkish coffee with sweets such as baklava or Turkish delight. This is a great opportunity to enjoy the authentic flavours of Turkey right before departure. In addition to national dishes, world-famous coffeehouse chains and fast-food restaurants operate here, where you can order familiar sandwiches, burgers, and salads.

Most establishments offer options for passengers with special dietary needs. Halal dishes are widely available and are the standard. In many cafes and restaurants, you can find vegetarian options; however, for vegan or gluten-free dishes, it is better to study the menu in advance or ask the staff. For a quick snack, coffee shops and sandwich kiosks are ideal, while for a full lunch or dinner, it is worth visiting one of the à la carte restaurants located in the departure zone.

Prices at the airport are generally higher than in the city, which is standard practice for most aviation hubs. Nevertheless, the price range allows you to find both budget options in food courts and more premium offers in restaurants. Many establishments, especially in the international terminal, operate 24/7 or on a flexible schedule adjusted to flight times, so you can refresh yourself at any time of the day or night.

To ensure your journey from Ankara begins without haste and stress, plan your arrival at Esenboga Airport well in advance. For international flights, allow at least 3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights within Turkey, 1.5-2 hours will be sufficient. During peak seasons and holidays, it is better to add a little more time. Online check-in, which most airlines open 24 hours before departure, will help significantly speed up the process.

When passing through security control, be ready in advance to remove laptops, tablets, and other large electronics from your hand luggage. Remember standard international rules for carrying liquids: all containers (shampoos, creams, perfumes) must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in a single transparent resealable bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited in hand luggage. External batteries (power banks) are permitted only in the cabin.

If you have the opportunity to choose a seat during check-in, consider your preferences. A window seat (A, F) will give you beautiful views, especially during takeoff and landing. An aisle seat (C, D) ensures more legroom and allows you to stand up without disturbing neighbours. You can save money at the airport by bringing an empty reusable water bottle and filling it at drinking fountains after the security checkpoint.

Passengers with a transfer at Esenboga are advised to find the gate number for their next flight on the information boards immediately upon arrival. The airport has convenient navigation, but it is always better to have a time buffer, especially if repeat security screening is required. When passing through customs upon arrival in the country, if you have no goods to declare, use the "Green Channel". Be mindful of the restrictions on the import of alcohol, tobacco products, and large amounts of cash.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, contact your airline's counter first. Their representatives will provide the most up-to-date information and explain your rights. Depending on the length of the wait, the air carrier is obliged to provide drinks, hot meals, and in case of a long delay (especially at night), hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses and your boarding passes.