Anadolu University Airport

Welcome to one of the most unusual aviation hubs in the world — an air harbour that lives to the rhythm of a university city and is managed by a university! Anadolu University Airport (also known as Hasan Polatkan Airport) is not just a transport node, but a true training ground for aviation professionals, where training flights coexist with regular international flights. Located literally within the campus grounds, it offers travellers a unique atmosphere of comfort, compactness, and tranquillity, which is so rare for noisy metropolises. It is the ideal starting point for exploring the "Turkish Venice" — the city of Eskişehir.

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

Anadolu University Airport stands out from other Turkish air harbours due to its special status and functionality. Here is what makes it convenient for tourists:

• Unique Management: This is one of the rare airports in the world owned by a higher education institution. It serves the Faculty of Aeronautics and Astronautics, so perfect order and high discipline are always maintained here, and the technical condition of the runway and equipment is kept at an impeccable level.
• Phenomenal Proximity to the City: The airport is located within the city limits, in the Tepebaşı district. A trip to the historical centre, parks, and museums takes only 10–15 minutes by taxi or public transport, which saves a lot of time and energy after a flight.
• No Queues: Thanks to the low passenger flow and compact terminal, passport control and baggage claim happen swiftly. You won't have to wander through endless corridors — everything is intuitive and within walking distance.
• Connection with Europe: Despite its modest size, the airport holds international status. It is especially popular during the summer season, receiving direct flights from Belgium (Brussels) and Germany, which is very convenient for European tourists and members of the Turkish diaspora.

• Official Website: hph.anadolu.edu.tr
• Information Desk Phone: +90 222 322 20 70
• Address: Anadolu Üniversitesi, 2 Eylül Kampüsü, 26470 Tepebaşı/Eskişehir, Türkiye
• Email: hph@anadolu.edu.tr
• Lost Baggage Information: For questions regarding forgotten or lost items, please contact +90 222 322 20 70 (extension 6577) or via email at hph-kayipesya@anadolu.edu.tr.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain active separate pages on social media. It is recommended to check the official website for up-to-date information.
• Passenger Support Service: For assistance and enquiries, please use the main information desk phone: +90 222 322 20 70.

Getting to Anadolu University Airport (AOE) from the city centre of Eskişehir is effortless, as it is located very close to the main districts. Travellers from Turkey and other countries have several convenient options available, varying in cost, speed, and comfort level.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly way to reach the airport. City bus routes pass through the district where the university campus and airport are located. To reach the terminal, you can use a bus or tram (Estram network), followed by a short walk. This option is excellent for travellers with light luggage who wish to save money, as the cost of the trip is usually just a few Turkish Lira.

For maximum convenience and speed, use taxi services. Cars can easily be found at designated stands in the city, called by phone, or via a mobile app. A trip from the centre of Eskişehir to the airport usually takes about 15–20 minutes depending on traffic and will cost approximately 150-250 Turkish Lira (TRY). A taxi is the ideal choice if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling in a group. Alternatively, you can consider a pre-booked transfer.

If you value independence and plan to explore the surroundings, car rental is a wonderful solution. Offices of both international and local rental companies operate in the city. Upon arriving at the airport in a personal or rented car, you can leave it at the parking lot by the terminal, where zones for short-term and long-term parking are provided.

Although Anadolu University Airport serves local destinations excellently, for many international flights, travellers choose larger aviation hubs. The largest of these are Sabiha Gökçen International Airport in Istanbul and Esenboğa Airport in Ankara. You can reach them from Eskişehir by high-speed train (YHT) or intercity bus. Among other nearby regional airports, it is worth noting Yenişehir Airport in Bursa and Zafer Airport.

Anadolu University Airport (AOE) in Eskişehir is a compact and modern aviation hub distinguished by a simple and clear structure. Thanks to its small size, navigation here will not cause difficulties even for those visiting for the first time.

The airport consists of one passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. This means you won't have to worry about transferring between different buildings — all procedures take place in one location. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated and located in different parts of the building, which helps avoid confusion and crowding.

The terminal layout is extremely logical. Upon entry, you find yourself in the general area where check-in counters are located. After completing check-in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to the security checkpoint, and then to the departure lounge. The arrival zone is on the same level but in a different part of the building, and includes passport control (for international flights) and baggage claim belts.

Due to the airport's compactness, passing through check-in and security control usually takes significantly less time than in major international hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance: 1.5 hours before a domestic flight departure and at least 2 hours before an international one. This time will be sufficient to complete all formalities without rushing.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the signs, which are duplicated in English. Airport staff are always ready to help and guide you. Overall, thanks to its simplicity and thoughtful organisation, Anadolu University Airport leaves travellers with a pleasant impression.

The history of Anadolu University Airport (AOE), also known as Hasan Polatkan Airport, is unique and closely tied to the development of education in Turkey. It was opened in 1989 and was originally created not as a commercial hub, but as an educational and training base for the Faculty of Civil Aviation of Anadolu University in the city of Eskişehir. Its primary task was the training of future pilots and aviation specialists.

Over the years, the airport's role expanded beyond purely educational purposes. To satisfy the growing demand for air travel in the region, a decision was made to open it for commercial flights. A key moment in its development was the construction and opening of a new modern terminal in 2007. This large-scale modernisation allowed the airport to obtain international status and begin accepting regular and charter flights from various countries, significantly increasing its passenger flow and capacity.

The most interesting fact from the airport's history is its unique status. It is one of the few airports in the world that is still owned and managed by a university. It successfully combines two important functions: serving as a practical laboratory for aviation students whilst simultaneously functioning as a fully-fledged air gateway for residents and guests of the city. This rare combination of academic and commercial activity makes Anadolu University Airport a truly special facility in the country's aviation infrastructure.

Anadolu University Airport (AOE), serving the city of Eskişehir, offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait before their flight. Despite its relatively small size, the terminal is designed to ensure convenience for all categories of travellers arriving in this region of Turkey.

Located within the airport building are cafes and snack bars, where you can have a bite to eat or drink coffee before departure. Although the selection of establishments is not vast, they offer a standard assortment of beverages and light meals. There are also small shops where you can purchase essentials and souvenirs.

Comfortable waiting lounges are available for all passengers. Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the terminal, and charging stations for mobile devices can be found in designated zones. It is recommended to check with your airline representatives regarding the availability of VIP lounges and access conditions.

Available to travellers are ATMs and currency exchange points. In case of need, a medical point operates at the airport, ready to provide first aid. For passengers with children, mother and child rooms are equipped, and for people with reduced mobility, ramps, special toilets, and escort services are provided.

There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds; however, a multitude of accommodation options, from budget to premium, can be found in Eskişehir itself, which is a few minutes' drive away. Specialised conference halls are generally not provided within the terminal, but basic amenities such as internet access and areas for laptop work are available for business travellers.

Anadolu University Airport (AOE), serving the city of Eskişehir, offers passengers basic but quite sufficient dining options before departure. Given the compact size of the airport, there isn't a large variety of restaurants here as found in major international hubs. The main food outlets are concentrated in the general hall of the terminal and consist of cafeterias and small cafes where you can comfortably have a snack or drink coffee while waiting for your flight.

In the menus of local establishments, you will find classic snacks and drinks typical for Turkey. This is an excellent opportunity to try traditional pastries such as simit (sesame bagel), börek (layered pastry with cheese or meat), or poğaça (savoury bun). Sandwiches with fresh ingredients, salads, and desserts are also always available. Among beverages, we recommend ordering aromatic Turkish tea or strong Turkish coffee to energise yourself before the flight.

Cafes and snack bars are located in the main zone of the terminal, accessible to all visitors (before the security checkpoint), which is convenient for both departing passengers and those seeing them off. Opening hours are usually synchronised with the flight schedule, so even if you have an early or late departure, you will be able to find an open establishment. Prices at the airport are generally slightly higher than in the city, which is standard practice for air harbours.

For passengers with special dietary preferences, the choice may be limited. All food in the airport complies with Halal standards. Vegetarians will easily find options for themselves, for example, pastries with cheese or vegetable salads. However, finding certified gluten-free or vegan dishes might be difficult, so travellers with strict restrictions are advised to carry necessary snacks with them. For a quick snack, fresh pastries with tea are ideal, and for a more substantial lunch — a sandwich or salad accompanied by a drink.

To ensure your journey from the city of Eskişehir goes smoothly, adhere to a few simple rules. It is recommended to arrive at Anadolu University Airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight departure and 3 hours before an international one. This time is sufficient to go through all procedures without rushing. To save time, use online check-in for your flight if your airline provides such an option. This allows you to head straight to baggage drop-off or, if you are travelling light, to the security checkpoint.

Be prepared in advance when passing through security control. All liquids in containers up to 100 ml must be packed in a single transparent bag. Laptops, tablets, and other large gadgets must be removed from your bag and placed in a separate tray. It is prohibited to carry sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances in hand luggage. Be sure to check the current hand luggage and baggage allowance rules on your airline's website, as they may vary.

When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your preferences. Window seats will offer you beautiful views during takeoff and landing. Aisle seats are convenient if you plan to get up during the flight. If a quick exit from the plane upon arrival is important to you, choose seats in the front part of the cabin. Do not be late for boarding — monitor the information on the departure screens, as the gate number may change.

If you have a connecting flight, verify in advance whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage in Turkey. Anadolu University Airport is quite compact, making transfers relatively quick. Upon arrival from abroad, you will have to pass through customs control. If you have no goods to declare, proceed confidently through the "Green Channel". Otherwise, your path lies through the "Red Channel".

Want to save time and money? Bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it at a drinking fountain after passing security. Prices for food and drinks at airports are often inflated, so a light snack brought from home will help save your budget. Also, study the transfer options from the airport to the city in advance, comparing the cost of taxis and public transport to choose the most beneficial method for you.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, contact your airline representative first. Remain calm and follow updates on the information screens. Depending on the duration of the delay, the airline is obliged to provide passengers with drinks, meals, and in case of a long wait — hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses to claim compensation later.