Malatya Airport

Malatya Airport (MLX), also known as Erhaç Airport, is the main air gateway of the province, famous worldwide as the apricot capital. Located in the heart of Eastern Anatolia, it serves as a starting point for travelers eager to explore the rich historical heritage and picturesque nature of this authentic region. The airport is used for both civil transport and as a military airbase. From here, roads open up to ancient cities and natural wonders, making it the gateway to the fascinating world of eastern Turkey.

Despite its modest size, Malatya Airport efficiently handles passenger traffic, offering all necessary services for a comfortable start and end to your journey. It ensures stable air connectivity with key cities in the country, such as Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir, and also operates seasonal international flights to certain European cities, such as Düsseldorf and Frankfurt. For passenger convenience, transport links to the city are well-established: you can reach the centre via Havaş shuttle buses, the schedule of which is coordinated with flight arrivals and departures, or by taxi. The trip to the centre of Malatya usually takes about 45 minutes. The airport plays a significant role not only in tourism development but also in the region's economy, facilitating the export of the famous local apricots.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Malatya Airport (MLX).

• Official Website: Generally, up-to-date information on flights and services can be found on the official website managed by the General Directorate of State Airports Authority (DHMI): malatya.dhmi.gov.tr
• Information Desk Phone: For information regarding flight schedules, airport services, and other general inquiries, you can call: +90 422 266 00 46.
• Airport Address: Havaalanı Yolu, Akçadağ, 44600, Malatya, Turkey.
• Email: For written inquiries, you can use the official email address: infomalatya@dhmi.gov.tr
• Social Media: Separate social media pages for the airport may not exist. It is recommended to follow news on official DHMI resources.
• Lost & Found Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline's Lost & Found service directly or their ground handling representative at the airport (e.g., Havaş or Çelebi).
• Passenger Support Service: For assistance and consultation at the airport, please visit the information desk or use the inquiry phone number.

Reaching Malatya Erhaç Airport (MLX), located approximately 34 km west of the city centre of Malatya, is possible via several convenient methods. The most popular and budget-friendly option is the specialized Havaş buses. Their schedule is synchronized with the arrival and departure of domestic flights across Turkey. The buses travel to the city centre, making several stops along the way. The journey usually takes about 45-60 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

For those who value comfort and speed, a taxi is an excellent choice. Taxi ranks are located directly outside the terminal exit. A trip to the centre of Malatya will take approximately 30-40 minutes. The cost will be significantly higher than the bus, but it is the fastest way to reach your destination. You can also pre-book a private transfer, which is particularly convenient for those travelling with large luggage or family—the driver will meet you with a name sign, and the price will be fixed.

If you plan to actively explore the region, renting a car would be the best solution. Offices of both international and local rental companies are present at the airport. It is recommended to book a car online in advance to guarantee the availability of the desired vehicle class at a favourable price. For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented vehicle, paid parking is provided on the premises, offering options for both short-term and long-term stays.

The choice of transport to the airport in Malatya depends on your priorities. To save money, choose Havaş buses; for maximum speed and convenience, opt for a taxi or transfer; and for complete freedom of movement around this picturesque region, choose a rental car. In any case, plan your departure with ample time to avoid rushing before your flight.

Malatya Airport (MLX) is a modern and compact aviation hub, the structure of which is intuitive even for first-time visitors. Navigating the airport will not cause difficulties, as all passenger operations are concentrated in a single terminal.

This single terminal serves both domestic (iç hatlar) and international (dış hatlar) flights. The zoning inside the building follows a classic layout: at the entrance, there is a general hall with several check-in counters and an information board. After check-in, passengers proceed to the security screening area, beyond which lies the departure lounge with several boarding gates. The arrival area is located separately and includes baggage claim belts and customs control for international flights.

Since there is only one terminal, there is no need for transfers between buildings. All services—from check-in to baggage claim—are under one roof within walking distance of each other. This makes the transfer process (if applicable) as fast and convenient as possible.

Due to the small size of the airport, completing all pre-flight procedures, such as check-in and security screening, usually takes significantly less time than in major international hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport according to standard guidelines: 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight and 2-3 hours before an international one, to avoid rushing. To navigate, simply follow the signs in Turkish and English—it is practically impossible to get lost here.

Malatya Airport (MLX), also known as Erhaç Airport, has a rich history beginning in 1941. Initially founded as a military airfield, it still retains its dual-purpose status, serving both military and civil aviation. Such joint usage is a characteristic feature of many regional airports in Turkey, ensuring both the strategic and transport needs of the country.

The transition to full-fledged civil aviation occurred gradually. In the 1980s, the first steps were taken to create infrastructure for passenger transport. A key stage was the construction of a terminal, which served as the city's main air gate for a long time. Over the decades, the airport has been constantly modernized to cope with growing passenger traffic and meet modern standards of aviation safety and comfort.

A real breakthrough in the airport's history occurred very recently. In August 2023, the grand opening of a brand new, modern terminal took place, becoming the main event in its recent history. This massive expansion increased the airport's area to over 26,000 square metres, and its capacity grew to 2.5 million passengers per year. Thanks to this reconstruction, Malatya Airport received modern infrastructure, including jet bridges, spacious waiting halls, and new commercial zones, bringing passenger service to a qualitatively new level.

The history of the airport is marked not only by construction phases but also by its crucial humanitarian role. After the devastating earthquakes in February 2023 that affected southeastern Turkey, Malatya Airport transformed into a vital logistics hub. It received flights around the clock with rescuers, medical teams, and humanitarian aid from all over the world, and also ensured the evacuation of victims, demonstrating its strategic importance for the entire region in an emergency.

Today, Malatya Airport is not just a transport facility, but a modern and dynamically developing air gateway to the historical region of Eastern Anatolia. It plays a key role in the economic and tourism development of the province, giving travellers from all over the world access to the rich cultural heritage of the city of Malatya and its picturesque surroundings.

Malatya Airport (MLX) cares for passenger comfort by offering all necessary services for a pleasant wait for your flight. In the terminal, you will find several cafes and snack bars where you can have coffee, a snack before your flight, or a full meal. For those looking for souvenirs to remember their trip or who have forgotten small items, there are shops selling local products, press, and travel essentials.

To stay in touch with loved ones or handle work matters, passengers can utilize Wi-Fi access. The waiting lounges are equipped with charging stations for mobile phones and other gadgets. For travellers who value privacy and enhanced comfort, the airport has a VIP Lounge. Here you can relax in a calm atmosphere, enjoying drinks and snacks away from the general bustle.

For passenger convenience, ATMs and currency exchange points operate at Malatya Airport, making it easy to resolve financial matters. If you require medical assistance, medical point staff are on duty around the clock within the terminal, ready to provide first aid.

The airport strives to be accessible to everyone. A barrier-free environment has been created for passengers with reduced mobility, including ramps and specially equipped restrooms. Families travelling with small children can use the mother and child room, which has everything necessary for comfortable care of little ones.

Although there are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, you will find a wide selection of accommodation options in the city of Malatya, which can be reached quickly. Regarding business services, basic amenities for work, such as a quiet space and internet access, are provided in the VIP Lounge. Specialized conference rooms are generally not available at the airport.

Malatya Airport (MLX), being an important regional transport hub, offers passengers several convenient options for a snack or a full meal. Although the selection here is not as extensive as in major international hubs, you certainly won't go hungry.

Most dining establishments are concentrated in the main terminal. Typically, there are cafes in both the public zone (landside), accessible to all visitors, and the sterile departure zone (airside), after passing security control. This allows for a snack either before checking in for a flight or while waiting for boarding.

In the menus of local cafes, you will find Turkish fast food classics. For a light snack, fresh simits (sesame bagels), poğaça (small pastries with cheese or potato), and other types of baked goods are excellent. Be sure to try traditional Turkish tea in the characteristic tulip-shaped glasses or strong Turkish coffee. Since Malatya is the apricot capital of Turkey, dried apricots and sweets made from them can often be found in airport cafes and shops—this is a wonderful local delicacy and souvenir.

For a more substantial meal, some establishments offer sandwiches, salads, and sometimes simple hot dishes, such as the soup of the day (çorba) or doner kebab. Regarding special dietary needs, all food is Halal by default. Vegetarians will be able to find options like pastries with cheese or vegetable salads. However, choices for vegans and people on a gluten-free diet may be extremely limited, so if you have strict restrictions, it is recommended to carry your own snacks.

Prices at Malatya Airport can be described as moderate by airport standards—higher than in the city, but quite affordable. Most establishments operate according to the flight schedule, opening a few hours before the first departure and closing after the last one. This ensures that passengers on morning and evening flights will have the opportunity to refresh themselves.

To ensure your journey through Malatya city airport goes as smoothly as possible, make use of these helpful tips. This airport serves both domestic and international flights, and proper preparation will help avoid unnecessary stress.

Time Planning. Always check your airline's recommendations regarding arrival times at the airport for flights within Turkey and abroad. Allow extra time for the journey, especially during peak hours, to avoid rushing and to calmly go through all pre-flight procedures.

Check-in and Security Control. To save time, use online check-in on your airline's website. Be prepared for standard security screening procedures at the airport. Have your documents ready in advance, remove laptops and other large gadgets from your bags, and pack all liquids over 100 ml in your checked luggage.

Seat Selection. When checking in, consider which seat is more comfortable for you. A window seat will allow you to enjoy the views during takeoff and landing. An aisle seat gives you the freedom to stand up and move around without disturbing neighbours, which is especially convenient on longer flights.

Hand Luggage. Carefully check your airline's rules regarding the weight and dimensions of hand luggage. Standard rules prohibit carrying liquids in containers larger than 100 ml, as well as any sharp or cutting objects. Conversely, power banks and other batteries should be carried specifically in your hand luggage.

Transfer Passengers. If Malatya is your transit point, check with your airline in advance whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. Ensure there is enough time between flights to complete all pre-flight formalities, including potential re-screening, so that your connection goes smoothly.

Customs Control. When departing on an international flight, follow the signs to customs. If you are carrying goods subject to declaration (e.g., antiques, jewellery exceeding the limit, or large amounts of cash), familiarize yourself with the customs regulations of Turkey in advance to avoid misunderstandings.

Saving Time and Money. Besides online check-in, booking a transfer in advance helps save money. Food and drink prices at the airport can be high, so bring an empty water bottle that can be filled after security, and some light snacks.

What to do if a flight is delayed? In case of a flight delay or cancellation, do not panic. First, contact your airline's representative counter for information. Depending on the length of the wait, you may be provided with vouchers for food, drinks, or even hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts for necessary expenses for potential compensation.