Sanliurfa GAP Airport

Sanliurfa GAP Airport (GNY) is a modern aerial gateway to one of the world's most ancient and mysterious regions. Located in the Sanliurfa province in southeastern Türkiye, it serves as the starting point for travellers eager to witness the legendary lands of Mesopotamia. The airport was opened in 2007 and was named in honour of the massive "Southeastern Anatolia Project" (GAP), a state initiative aimed at developing the region. Its modern infrastructure and strategic location make it the ideal starting point for exploring treasures such as Göbekli Tepe and Harran.

Despite its relatively compact size, Sanliurfa GAP Airport is distinguished by its efficiency and comfort for passengers. Check-in and baggage claim processes here are quite swift, which is highly appreciated by travellers. The air hub is equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable wait: there are several cafes, car rental desks, and free Wi-Fi. For passenger convenience, transport connections to the city centre of Sanliurfa are organised via Havaş shuttles, allowing you to easily reach your hotel or head straight on an excursion.

To contact representatives of Sanliurfa GAP Airport (GNY), you can use the following contact details. It is recommended to check the official website for the most up-to-date information, especially before travelling.

• Official Website: Like most airports in Türkiye, Sanliurfa Airport is managed by the state company DHMI. Official information can be found on their portal: dhmi.gov.tr/sanliurfa-gap-havalimani.
• Information Desk Phone: +90 (414) 378 11 11. This is the main number for information regarding flights, services, and airport operations.
• Address: Şanlıurfa-Diyarbakır Karayolu 35. Km, Karakopru / Sanliurfa, Türkiye.
• Email: infogap@dhmi.gov.tr (for official enquiries).
• Social Media: The airport does not have its own active social media pages. News and updates are usually published through the central channels of the operator, DHMİ.
• Lost and Found: If you have lost items within the terminal building, please contact the Lost & Found office (Kayıp Eşya) via the main airport phone number. In case of checked baggage loss during a flight, you must contact your airline's representative directly.
• Passenger Support Service: For all general questions and assistance within the airport premises, please approach the information desk or call the helpline.

There are several ways to reach Sanliurfa GAP Airport (GNY) from the city centre of Sanliurfa, of which the Karakopru district is a part. The airport is located approximately 35 kilometres northeast of the city, so it is worth planning your journey in advance. On average, the trip takes between 30 to 50 minutes depending on the chosen transport and traffic conditions.

Public Transport: Havaş Buses
The most popular and economical way to get to the airport is via Havaş shuttles. These comfortable buses operate between the airport and key points in the centre of Sanliurfa. The schedule is usually coordinated with the arrival and departure of domestic flights. This is an excellent choice for solo travellers and those looking to save money. Stops and the exact schedule can be checked on the carrier's official website.

Taxi and Private Transfer
For maximum comfort, especially if you are travelling with family or a large amount of luggage, a taxi is the best option. The official taxi rank is located right outside the terminal exit. The journey will take about 30-40 minutes. It is recommended to ensure the driver switches on the meter, or agree on a fixed price before the trip begins. You can also book a private transfer online in advance, which guarantees a fixed cost and a meet-and-greet service with the driver in the arrivals hall.

Car Rental
If you plan to actively travel around the southeastern region of Türkiye, car rental might be the most convenient solution. Offices of both local and international rental companies are present at Sanliurfa GAP Airport. By booking a car in advance, you can hit the road immediately after arrival. This gives you complete freedom of movement and the opportunity to explore the surroundings at your own pace.

Airport Parking
For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, convenient parking is available. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking. The parking area is secured, allowing you to leave your vehicle for the duration of your trip without worry.

Sanliurfa GAP Airport (GNY) is a modern and compact aviation hub designed for maximum passenger convenience. Its structure is simple and intuitive, making navigation easy even for those visiting for the first time.

A key feature of the airport is its single passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. Thanks to this, passengers do not need to worry about transferring between different buildings — all procedures from check-in to boarding take place under one roof. Such an organisation significantly simplifies logistics and saves time.

The terminal layout is logical and well thought out. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated. Typically, check-in counters, security screening, and boarding gates are located on one level or in one part of the building, while baggage claim and the greeters' area are in another. Information screens and signs in Turkish and English will help you easily orient yourself and find the required sector.

Completing all pre-flight formalities at Sanliurfa GAP Airport usually does not take much time. Due to moderate passenger traffic, queues for check-in and security checks are generally short. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure, and for international flights — 2-3 hours. This time will be quite sufficient to check in luggage, pass through controls, and reach your boarding gate without haste.

Sanliurfa GAP Airport (GNY) is a modern transport hub whose history is closely linked to the massive economic development of southeastern Türkiye. It was opened for flights on 17 June 2007, replacing an older and much smaller airport that could no longer cope with the growing passenger traffic and the region's needs.

The decision to build a new airport was part of the strategic Southeastern Anatolia Project (Güneydoğu Anadolu Projesi — GAP), which is reflected in its name. This ambitious project aimed at the comprehensive development of the region's infrastructure, agriculture, and energy sectors. The old airport, which had been functioning since 1988, had limited capabilities, and a more powerful and modern facility was required to realise the economic potential.

Since its opening, Sanliurfa GAP Airport has become one of the key elements of the region's transport system. It was designed with future needs in mind and equipped with one of the longest runways in Türkiye. This allows it to accommodate large cargo and passenger aircraft, which is crucial for the export of local agricultural products and the development of tourism, as world-famous sites like Göbekli Tepe are located nearby.

Over the years of its operation, the airport has not undergone massive renovations, as it was originally built to modern standards. Its history is not one of gradual additions, but an example of comprehensive planning, where an infrastructure facility was created "from scratch" to solve specific economic tasks. Today, it is an important hub connecting Karakopru and the Sanliurfa province with the rest of the country and the world.

Sanliurfa GAP Airport (GNY) offers passengers all the necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the terminal, you will find several cafes and snack bars where you can enjoy a cup of Turkish tea, coffee, or have a quick bite. For those looking to buy something last minute, shops selling souvenirs, newspapers, and essentials are available.

For travellers who value enhanced comfort, a CIP Lounge operates at the airport. Guests of the lounge can relax in a quiet atmosphere and enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and charging stations for mobile phones and other gadgets are installed in the waiting halls, so you will always remain connected.

Financial matters are also addressed at the airport: ATMs and currency exchange points are at the passengers' disposal. In case of unforeseen health situations, a medical centre operates within the terminal building to provide first aid.

Special attention is paid to passengers with specific needs. Mother and child rooms are equipped for families with small children. Passengers with reduced mobility can request special assistance, and the terminal itself is designed with barrier-free environment requirements in mind, including ramps and specially equipped restrooms.

Although there are no hotels directly within the airport building, travellers can easily find numerous accommodation options in the city of Sanliurfa, located approximately 35 km away. There are no specialised conference halls in the airport; however, business travellers can utilise the services and quiet atmosphere of the CIP Lounge for work.

At Sanliurfa GAP Airport (GNY), passengers can find several convenient options to grab a snack or have a full meal before departure. The main catering establishments are located in the terminal building and offer both quick snacks and hot dishes.

The main cafe is typically located in the public area before security control (landside), which is convenient for those seeing off or meeting passengers. Here, the widest selection is presented: from traditional Turkish pastries such as simit and börek to sandwiches, salads, and several types of hot dishes. After passing through security, in the departure area (airside), a smaller establishment usually operates where you can get coffee, tea, refreshing drinks, and light snacks.

Sanliurfa is famous for its cuisine, and although the choice at the airport will be limited, it is worth looking for dishes with local flair if they are on the menu. Virtually all food served complies with Halal standards. For vegetarians, there are options in the form of pastries with cheese or potatoes, as well as fresh salads. Passengers with stricter dietary restrictions (vegan, gluten-free) are recommended to carry their own snacks, as a specialised menu at the airport is likely unavailable.

The price range in the establishments at Sanliurfa GAP Airport can be described as moderate for an air terminal — slightly higher than in the city, but affordable. The opening hours of cafes and restaurants are usually synchronised with the flight schedule: they open early in the morning and serve passengers until the departure of the last aircraft.

For a quick snack, coffee or the famous Turkish tea with fresh pastries are ideal. If you have time for a full lunch, it is best to visit the cafe in the public zone of the terminal, where you can order the soup of the day or a hearty toasted sandwich to fortify yourself before the flight.

To ensure your journey through Sanliurfa GAP Airport goes as smoothly as possible, make use of our tips. These simple recommendations will help save time, reduce stress, and even save money, making the start and end of your trip comfortable.

Arrival Time at the Airport: Plan your arrival in advance. For domestic flights within Türkiye, allow at least 1.5-2 hours before departure, and for international flights — 2.5-3 hours. This will give you enough time to calmly go through all procedures without rushing, especially during peak seasons.

Check-in and Security: The fastest way to check in for a flight is to do it online on the airline's website. This allows you to head straight to baggage drop or, if you are travelling light, to the security checkpoint. Have your passport and boarding pass ready. At security control, be prepared to remove laptops, tablets, and liquid containers from your hand luggage.

Liquids and Hand Luggage: Remember the international rule for carrying liquids in hand luggage: all must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent resealable bag with a capacity of up to 1 litre. Always keep valuables, documents, electronics, and necessary medication with you in your hand luggage. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited.

For Transfer Passengers: If you have a connecting flight, clarify at baggage check-in whether it will be automatically transferred to the next flight. At the airport, follow the "Transit" or "Connections" signs. Ensure you have enough time between flights in case of unforeseen delays.

Customs Control: On international flights, you will have to pass through customs control. If you are carrying goods whose value exceeds established limits, they must be declared. We recommend familiarising yourself with the country's customs regulations in advance to avoid misunderstandings.

How to Save Money: Prices at the airport are traditionally higher. To avoid overpaying, bring an empty reusable water bottle (you can fill it after security) and light snacks. Transfers to the city of Karakopru or other settlements are more economical to book online in advance or use public transport rather than taking a taxi at the terminal exit.

If the Flight is Delayed: The main thing is not to panic. Monitor information on the departure boards and listen to announcements. Approach your airline's representative desk to find out the reason for the delay and your rights. Depending on the duration of the wait, the airline is obliged to provide you with drinks, meals, and for long delays — hotel accommodation.