Cengiz Topel Airport

Cengiz Topel Airport is a compact and convenient air gateway to the Kocaeli province, located in a picturesque region of Turkey. Originally a military airfield named after the hero pilot Cengiz Topel, today it also serves civilian flights, offering travellers a quick alternative to the busy airports of Istanbul. Its strategic location makes it an ideal starting point for trips to both industrial hubs and natural attractions, such as Lake Sapanca and the Kartepe ski resort.

The main advantage of Cengiz Topel Airport is its compactness and simplicity. Unlike the giant terminals of Istanbul, all procedures here are completed quickly and without unnecessary hassle, which is particularly appreciated by tourists travelling with families and business people. The small passenger terminal, covering just over 2,000 m², is equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable wait. The airport has convenient transport links to the city centre and neighbouring districts via municipal buses and taxis, making it easy to reach your hotel or local attractions.

The airport's location is its key benefit. It is situated in close proximity to the major industrial zones of Kocaeli province, making it popular among business travellers. At the same time, tourists value it for its closeness to popular leisure spots — the famous Lake Sapanca and the ski slopes of Kartepe, which can be reached in a short time. This makes Cengiz Topel Airport an excellent choice for those wishing to combine a business trip with a relaxing break in nature.

For your convenience, we have gathered the essential contact information for Cengiz Topel Airport (KCO) in Kocaeli. We recommend checking the official resources for the most up-to-date data before your trip.

• Official Website: The most complete and current information regarding airport operations, flight schedules, and services can be found on its official page on the General Directorate of State Airports Authority of Turkey (DHMİ) portal: www.dhmi.gov.tr.
• Information Desk Phone: For general enquiries, you can call: +90 (262) 367 76 00.
• Airport Address: Emekevler Mah. D-100 Karayolu Cad. No:337, Kartepe / Kocaeli, Türkiye.
• Email: For written enquiries, please use the address: infocengiztopel@dhmi.gov.tr.
• Social Media: The airport does not have separate official accounts. News and updates are published on the centralised DHMİ pages.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of luggage loss on board the aircraft, please contact your airline's representative. If you have lost items within the terminal building, contact the Lost Property Office (Kayıp Eşya) via the main airport phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For consultations and assistance regarding airport services, you may use the general information desk phone number or email address.

There are several ways to get to Cengiz Topel Airport (KCO), which serves the Kocaeli province. The airport is located approximately 15 kilometres from the centre of Izmit, making the journey quick and convenient.

Public Transport is the most economical option. The primary method of reaching the city is via municipal buses (Belediye Otobüsleri). They connect the airport with key points in Izmit and neighbouring districts, including Gebze and Gölcük. Bus schedules are often coordinated with flight arrivals and departures, but we recommend checking current information in advance, especially if your flight is early in the morning or late at night. The bus journey from the centre of Izmit takes about 40-50 minutes.

Taxis and Private Transfers offer maximum comfort and speed. The taxi rank is located right outside the terminal exit. A trip to the centre of Izmit by taxi takes just 20-30 minutes depending on traffic conditions. This is an excellent choice if you are travelling with heavy luggage or as a family. For greater convenience and fixed pricing, you can book a transfer in advance via online services — the driver will meet you with a name sign in the arrivals hall.

Car Rental is an ideal option for those planning to actively travel around the Sea of Marmara region in Turkey. Several car rental company desks are available at the airport. Having your own car gives you the freedom to explore not only Izmit but also picturesque surroundings such as Lake Sapanca or coastal towns. There is a car park near the Cengiz Topel Airport terminal where you can leave a vehicle for both short and long periods.

It is worth noting that due to the relatively small number of flights from Cengiz Topel Airport, many travellers use larger air hubs nearby. The closest and most popular of these is Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) in Istanbul, located approximately 68 km away. Alternatively, you can consider the new Istanbul Airport (IST) or Yenişehir Airport in Bursa.

Cengiz Topel Airport (KCO) is a small and convenient regional airport serving the city of Kocaeli and its surroundings in Turkey. Its key feature is its compactness and simplicity, making it particularly suitable for travellers who value speed and a lack of bustle.

The airport complex consists of a single passenger terminal that handles both departing and arriving flights, primarily domestic. The terminal structure is intuitive: the ground floor houses check-in counters, the baggage claim area, and the arrivals hall. The first floor contains the security control zone and a small departure lounge with boarding gates. Thanks to this simple layout, navigating the airport causes no difficulties.

Since there is only one terminal, the issue of transfers between terminals is irrelevant. All zones are located in one building within walking distance of each other. From the terminal entrance to the check-in counters is just a few steps, and after passing security, you immediately enter the departure waiting area. This significantly saves passengers' time and energy.

One of the main advantages of Cengiz Topel Airport is the rapid completion of all pre-flight procedures. Due to the low passenger traffic, queues for check-in and security are rare here. Typically, the entire process from entering the building to reaching the secure area takes no more than 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5 hours before departure to check in luggage and pass controls without rushing.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the signs, which are duplicated in English. It is practically impossible to get lost here. If you have any questions, you can always ask the airport staff. The compact size and logical layout make Cengiz Topel one of the simplest and least stressful airports for travel.

The history of Cengiz Topel Airport (KCO) in Kocaeli is closely intertwined with the military aviation of Turkey. Originally, this facility was established as a military airbase, which continues to function today, sharing infrastructure with the civilian sector. This dual status is one of the airport's key features.

The air harbour received its name in honour of Air Force Captain Cengiz Topel, a fighter pilot who died in 1964 and became a national hero. This name highlights the deep historical roots and the airport's connection with the country's armed forces.

The path to civil aviation began in the 21st century when a decision was made to adapt part of the military base for commercial transport. The official opening for passenger flights took place in 2011 with the aim of relieving Istanbul's airports and improving transport accessibility for one of Turkey's most industrially developed regions.

The initial phase of operations was not smooth: sometime after the launch, flights were temporarily suspended. However, the airport later resumed its activities. To meet modern requirements, terminal modernisation and other infrastructure works were carried out, allowing for the stable operation of domestic flights.

Although Cengiz Topel Airport cannot boast passenger traffic records compared to the giants of Istanbul, its unique history of transformation from a purely military facility into a civilian hub makes it an important part of the region's transport system. It serves as an excellent example of successful adaptation and multi-purpose use of airfield infrastructure.

Cengiz Topel Airport (KCO) offers passengers a basic set of services necessary for a comfortable wait for their flight. The terminal features several cafés where you can have a snack, tea, coffee, or soft drinks. There are also small shops selling souvenirs, newspapers, and travel essentials.

Standard waiting areas are provided for relaxation before departure. Passengers preferring enhanced comfort can utilise the services of the CIP Lounge. Wireless internet (Wi-Fi) is available throughout the airport, and charging stations for electronic devices are installed in the waiting halls, ensuring you can always stay connected.

ATMs are installed in the terminal building for cash withdrawals. For emergencies, there is a medical unit capable of providing first aid. Passengers with small children can use the mother and child room. The airport is also equipped for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility, providing necessary assistance upon prior request.

There are no hotels within the Cengiz Topel Airport grounds; however, in nearby cities such as Izmit and Kartepe, you can find numerous accommodation options to suit any taste and budget. There are no specialised conference rooms or business centres in the airport, but areas in the cafés or the CIP Lounge can be used for work.

Cengiz Topel Airport (KCO) is a small regional aviation hub, so the choice of dining establishments here is quite modest and primarily designed for passengers who need a quick snack. Do not expect the same variety of restaurants and cafés here as in the major international airports of Turkey.

The main offering is concentrated in the main and only terminal. Typically, there is a small café or buffet available to all visitors in the general area (before security control). Its menu usually includes:

• Quick snacks: Ready-made sandwiches, toast.
• Turkish pastries: Fresh simits (sesame bagels), poğaça (small buns), and böreks (layered pastries with cheese or other fillings).
• Beverages: Traditional Turkish tea, coffee, water, juices, and carbonated drinks.
• Packaged snacks: Chips, chocolate, biscuits.

Options for a full lunch or dinner at the airport are practically non-existent. If you wish to have a substantial meal before your flight, it is recommended to do so at one of the restaurants in the city of Kocaeli (Izmit), which is located nearby. Regarding special dietary preferences, vegetarians will be able to find pastries with cheese; however, specialised vegan or gluten-free dishes are unlikely to be available here. Passengers with strict dietary restrictions are advised to bring food with them.

The opening hours of the cafés are directly linked to the flight schedule — they are open when there are passengers at the airport and close after the departure of the last aircraft. Prices for food and drinks here are higher than in the city, which is standard practice for airports.

Planning a trip through Cengiz Topel Airport in Kocaeli, Turkey? These tips will help make your journey as comfortable as possible and avoid unnecessary stress. Cengiz Topel Airport (KCO) is a small and relatively quiet aviation hub, but proper preparation is always important.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure, and for international flights — 2.5-3 hours. Although the airport is not as busy as the Istanbul giants, it is better to have a time buffer. To save time, complete online check-in on your airline's website if this option is available. This allows you to head straight to baggage drop or, if you are travelling light, to the security checkpoint.

Security Control and Hand Luggage. Before passing through security control, ensure that all liquids (shampoos, creams) are in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag. Laptops and other large electronics must be removed from your bag and placed in a separate tray. Following these simple rules will significantly speed up the screening process. Do not pack sharp or cutting objects, including nail scissors and penknives, in your hand luggage.

Seat Selection and In-flight Comfort. When checking in, choose a window seat if you wish to enjoy the views during take-off and landing, or an aisle seat if you value the ability to stand up and stretch your legs freely. A small neck pillow, sleep mask, and earplugs will make even a short flight more comfortable.

Transfer Passengers and Customs. If you have a connecting flight, check with your airline in advance whether you need to collect your luggage and re-check it. When passing through customs control, follow the signs for the "Green" channel (if you have nothing to declare) or the "Red" channel. Be mindful of restrictions on the import and export of currency, tobacco products, and other regulated items.

Saving Time and Money. To avoid excess fees, weigh your luggage at home and ensure it meets the airline's standards. Bring an empty water bottle with you — after passing security, you can fill it at a drinking fountain. It is often cheaper to book an airport transfer online in advance than to take a taxi on the spot.

In Case of Flight Delay. If your flight is delayed, remain calm. First, contact your airline representative for the latest information and clarification. Monitor updates on the information screens. Depending on the length of the delay, the airline is obliged to provide drinks, meals, and in some cases, hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses.