Kahramanmaras Airport

Kahramanmaras Airport (IATA: KCM) is a modern air gateway located at the foot of the picturesque Eastern Taurus mountain range. Opened in 1996, today the airport plays a key role in the region's transport system, connecting the historic city of Kahramanmaras with Istanbul and the capital of Turkey — Ankara. Thanks to the new terminal, the airport's capacity has significantly increased, allowing it to comfortably serve the growing passenger flow and making it the starting point for exploring this amazing region.

The main advantage of the airport is its close proximity to the city — a trip to the centre takes only 10-15 minutes by taxi or public transport. The airport complex consists of a modern building with a single terminal that serves both domestic and international destinations. Despite its compact size, the airport is equipped with a satellite navigation system (RNAP), ensuring additional flight safety in difficult weather conditions and at night. Inside the terminal, passengers will find everything necessary for a comfortable wait, including a small café and shops.

If you need to contact the administration of Kahramanmaras Airport (KCM), please use the following contact details. We recommend checking the official website for the most up-to-date information before your trip.

• Official website: www.dhmi.gov.tr
• Information desk phone: +90 344 236 53 53
• Airport address: Kahramanmaraş Havalimanı, 46040, Kahramanmaras, Turkey
• Email: infokahramanmaras@dhmi.gov.tr
• Social media: The airport does not maintain active separate pages on social media. It is recommended to track all current information and news on the official website.
• Lost luggage information: For inquiries regarding luggage lost during a flight, you should contact your airline's representative at the airport directly. If you have lost items within the terminal building, please contact the airport information desk.
• Passenger support contacts: For inquiries and assistance, you can call the general airport information service at +90 344 236 53 53.

Getting to Kahramanmaras Airport (KCM) from the city centre is quite simple, as it is located just a few kilometres away. Travellers can choose the most convenient method depending on their budget, time, and preferences. The journey from the centre of Kahramanmaras to the terminal usually takes no more than 15-20 minutes.

Public transport is the most economical option. Municipal buses run regularly between the airport and key points in the city. This is an excellent choice for those travelling light who wish to save money. Schedules and routes can be checked at stops or on the city's official transport websites. Additionally, special shuttles (Havaş or similar) may offer more comfortable trips with fixed stops.

Taxis and private transfers are the fastest and most convenient way to get to the airport. Taxis can be easily found anywhere in the city or ordered via an app. This option is ideal if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling with family. For complete peace of mind, you can book a private transfer in advance — the driver will meet you at the appointed time, and the trip cost will be fixed.

For those who value independence and plan to explore the picturesque surroundings of Turkey, the best solution is car rental. Several rental companies operate desks at Kahramanmaras Airport. You can pick up a car immediately upon arrival or, conversely, return it before departure. The airport has parking facilities where you can leave a car for both short and long terms, which is convenient for those arriving in their own vehicle.

If your plans involve more flexible routes or you have not found suitable flights to Kahramanmaras, it is worth considering airports in neighbouring cities. The largest and closest of these is Gaziantep Airport (GZT), located approximately 80 km away. Other alternatives include Malatya Airport (MLX) and Adiyaman Airport (ADF), from where you can reach Kahramanmaras by intercity bus or rental car.

Kahramanmaras Airport (KCM) is a modern and compact aviation hub serving primarily domestic flights. Its structure is simple and intuitive, making the experience comfortable even for first-time travellers.

Structure and Navigation

The main feature of the airport is its single passenger terminal, which integrates all necessary zones. Both departing and arriving passengers are served here. Thanks to its compact size, getting lost is practically impossible. All key areas — check-in counters, security screening, the waiting lounge, and baggage claim belts — are within walking distance of each other. There are no transfers between terminals, as all operations are concentrated in one building.

Departure and Arrival Zones

Departure and arrival zones are logically separated within a unified space. After entering the terminal, you immediately find yourself in the general hall with check-in counters. After completing check-in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to pre-flight security screening, followed by a small but cosy waiting lounge with boarding gates. The arrival zone is equally simple: after disembarking from the aircraft, passengers enter the baggage claim hall and then the general arrivals hall.

Processing Times

Check-in and security processes at Kahramanmaras Airport generally proceed quickly and without long queues. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport as standard — 1.5 to 2 hours before a domestic flight departure. This time will be more than sufficient to drop off luggage without rushing, pass through security control, and enjoy a cup of coffee before the flight. Navigation through the terminal is extremely simple: follow the signs, which are clearly visible and easy to understand.

The airport of Kahramanmaras (KCM) is a relatively young but strategically important transport hub in the southeast of Turkey. Its history began in 1996, when it was opened for civil aviation. Initially created to improve the region's transport accessibility, the airport became a vital factor in its economic and social development, providing direct connections to the country's largest cities.

A key moment in the airport's history occurred in 2017, when a large-scale reconstruction was carried out and a new, modern terminal was opened. This event was a true breakthrough: capacity increased significantly, and the level of passenger comfort reached a completely new standard. The new terminal was designed taking into account modern standards and needs, allowing the airport to accommodate more flights and serve the growing passenger flow.

Throughout its existence, Kahramanmaras Airport has played an important role in the life of the region. It did not set records for the number of international flights, focusing instead on domestic connections, but this is precisely what made it indispensable for local residents and businesses. Stable flights to Istanbul and Ankara have strengthened the province's economic and cultural ties with the rest of the country. The airport has become a symbol of modernisation and accessibility, turning a once-remote region into a convenient destination to visit in Turkey.

Among interesting facts, it can be noted that the development of the airport proceeded in parallel with the growth of the industrial and cultural significance of the city of Kahramanmaras itself, known for its textiles and unique "Maraş dondurması" ice cream. Thus, the history of the airport is not just a history of construction and reconstruction, but a reflection of the dynamic development of the entire region, for which these air gates became a window to the wider world.

Kahramanmaras Airport (KCM) offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the terminal is equipped with everything needed for travellers heading to this region of Turkey.

Before departure, you can have a snack at small cafés and eateries serving drinks, sandwiches, and local pastries. The terminal also has several shops where you can purchase souvenirs, newspapers, and travel essentials. The selection here is not as vast as in major metropolises, but basic needs will be met.

Comfortable waiting areas are provided for passengers. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, along with stations for charging mobile devices. Information regarding VIP lounges should be checked with your airline or at the airport information desk, as services may vary.

The airport building houses ATMs of several Turkish banks where cash can be withdrawn. Currency exchange points in small regional airports may have limited operating hours or be absent, so it is recommended to exchange money in the city of Kahramanmaras in advance. For those planning to travel by car, car rental desks operate within the terminal.

The airport is fully equipped to serve passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, special restrooms, and the option to request staff assistance. For travellers with small children, mother and child rooms are provided where you can care for your baby in a quiet environment. In case of necessity, a medical point is available at the airport to provide first aid.

There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds. The nearest hotels are located in the city of Kahramanmaras, which can be easily reached by taxi or transfer. Specialized conference halls or business centres are absent in the terminal; for business meetings, it is better to utilize hotel services in the city.

Kahramanmaras Airport (KCM) is a regional aviation hub, so the selection of establishments here is quite compact but sufficient to pass the time comfortably while waiting for a flight. Passengers can have a snack and drink coffee at several points located mainly in the general hall of the terminal.

Typically, one or two café-buffets operate in the airport building, serving passengers both in the general area (before security control) and in the departure zone. This is convenient if you have arrived early or are seeing someone off. Here you can find a classic selection for a quick bite: sandwiches, toast, fresh pastries, and desserts. For those wishing to experience local flavours, it is worth trying traditional Turkish snacks, such as simit (sesame bagel) or börek (flaky pastry with cheese or meat).

Regarding special dietary requirements, as everywhere in Turkey, the food offered complies with Halal standards. Vegetarians will be able to find pastry options with cheese or vegetables. However, specialised vegan or gluten-free dishes may be difficult to find here, so passengers with such restrictions are advised to arrange for food in advance.

For a quick snack, a cup of Turkish tea or coffee with fresh pastries is perfect. If you are counting on a full lunch, it is better to have it in the city before travelling to the airport, as the choice of hot dishes at KCM is limited. Prices at the airport are standardly higher than in the city but remain within reasonable limits. Cafés usually operate according to the flight schedule, opening a few hours before the first departure and closing after the last one.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Kahramanmaras goes as smoothly and comfortably as possible, take advantage of our tips. These simple recommendations will help save time, stress, and even money.

Arrival time at the airport. The golden rule of the traveller is to arrive early. For domestic flights within Turkey, we recommend arriving at the airport 2–2.5 hours before departure. If you have an international flight, it is better to allocate at least 3 hours. This buffer allows you to check in, drop off luggage, and pass security control without rushing.

Check-in and security control. To save time in queues, complete online check-in for your flight if your airline offers this facility. Keep your passport and boarding pass ready at the airport. When passing through security, be prepared to remove laptops and other large electronics from your hand luggage, and place all liquids up to 100 ml in a separate transparent bag.

Choosing a seat. If it is possible to choose a seat during check-in, consider your preferences. Window seats allow you to enjoy beautiful views of the mountain landscapes during takeoff and landing. Aisle seats are convenient if you are tall or plan to stand up during the flight without disturbing your neighbours.

Hand luggage rules. Always pack the most valuable items in your hand luggage: documents, money, gadgets, portable chargers, and necessary medication. Remember general restrictions: sharp objects and containers with liquids exceeding 100 ml each are prohibited.

Passengers with transfers. If Kahramanmaras is a transit point on your route, check when registering your luggage whether it will be automatically forwarded to the next flight. Immediately upon arrival, find the number of your next boarding gate on the information board to assess how much time you have in reserve.

Customs control. For international flights, it is necessary to pass customs control. Familiarise yourself in advance with the rules for importing and exporting currency, as well as duty-free allowances for goods (tobacco, souvenirs, etc.), to avoid delays and fines. If you are in doubt about whether an item needs to be declared, it is better to consult a customs officer.

Saving time and money. Bring an empty reusable water bottle with you — after passing security, it can be filled for free at drinking fountains. Small snacks from home will help avoid higher prices at airport cafés. A pre-booked transfer to or from the city often costs less than a taxi hailed on the spot.

In case of flight delay. Remain calm. First and foremost, monitor updates on the departure board and in your airline's app. Ensure your phone is charged. Depending on the length of the delay, the carrier is obliged to provide passengers with drinks, meals, and for long waits, hotel accommodation. Do not hesitate to contact the airline counter to clarify information about your rights.