Çukurova International Airport

Çukurova International Airport (COV) is one of the newest and most modern airports in Turkey, having opened its doors in August 2024. It represents an ultramodern transport hub, strategically located to serve the entire thriving Çukurova region, including major cities such as Adana and Mersin. Conceived as the new aerial gateway to the country's Mediterranean coast, this airport symbolises a new era in the development of tourism and the regional economy, offering passengers advanced infrastructure and a high level of comfort.

Çukurova Airport stands out not only for its scale but also for its meticulously planned infrastructure. Its runway, 3,500 metres in length, is capable of accommodating all types of aircraft, including the largest wide-body jets. The airport apron is designed to service 48 aircraft simultaneously, guaranteeing high throughput capacity even during peak seasons. For passenger convenience, a developed transport network has been created: new highway sections connect the airport to Mersin and Adana, and a high-speed train service is planned for the future.

The main advantage of the airport is its role as a key transport hub for the entire eastern Mediterranean region of Turkey. It has replaced the old airport in Adana for most international and some domestic flights, significantly increasing passenger flow to the region. The airport facilitates the development of not only tourism but also trade, serving as an important centre for cargo transportation. Travellers will appreciate the modern terminal, numerous shops, restaurants, and comfortable waiting lounges, which make the stay at the airport as pleasant as possible.

For your convenience, we have compiled the essential contact information for Çukurova International Airport (COV):

• Official Website: cukurova.dhmi.gov.tr
• Information Desk Phone: +90 (324) 221 21 00
• Address: Yenice Mahallesi, 33400, Tarsus, Mersin Province, Turkey
• Email: infocukurova@dhmi.gov.tr
• Social Media: We recommend checking the airport's website for official pages and up-to-date links.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of lost items or baggage, please contact your airline's representative first. Additional information can be obtained via the general airport phone number.
• Passenger Support Service: For all enquiries related to your stay at the airport, please contact the information desk at the number listed above.

Çukurova International Airport (COV) serves as a convenient transport hub for the entire region, covering major cities such as Adana, Mersin, and Tarsus. To travel to or from the airport, passengers can choose from several methods based on their budget, time, and comfort level. The airport's transport accessibility is well thought out and offers options for every preference.

Public Transport is the most economical way to travel. Specialised shuttle buses, such as those from HAVAŞ, connect the airport with the central districts of Adana, Mersin, and Tarsus. Their routes pass through key city points, including bus terminals. This is an excellent choice for those travelling without large amounts of luggage. It is recommended to check current schedules and fares on the carriers' websites before your trip.

Taxi and Private Transfer is the fastest and most comfortable option. The official taxi stand is located directly outside the arrivals terminal exit. A trip to the centre of Tarsus will take about 20-30 minutes, to Mersin — 30-40 minutes, and to Adana — approximately 45-55 minutes. The cost is higher than the bus, but it is justified by the convenience, especially if you are travelling with family, heavy luggage, or arriving late at night. For greater peace of mind, you can book an individual transfer in advance — the driver will meet you in the arrivals hall.

Car Rental is the ideal solution for those planning to actively explore the coast and attractions of Turkey. Inside the airport building, you will find offices of both international and local rental companies. Having your own car offers freedom of movement and allows you to plan your route at your discretion, without being tied to public transport schedules.

For travellers arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, convenient parking is provided. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking. This is a secure, though not the cheapest, way to leave your car for the duration of your trip.

When planning your route, it is worth noting that there are other airports in the region. Depending on your final destination, it might be more convenient to fly into Hatay Airport, Kayseri Airport, or Gaziantep Airport, which also accept international and domestic flights.

Çukurova International Airport (COV) is distinguished by a modern and thoughtful layout, created for maximum passenger comfort. A key feature of the airport is its single large and functional terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. This unified structure eliminates the need to move between different buildings and makes the transfer process simple and fast.

The terminal map is intuitive. Typically, the departure zone with numerous check-in counters and baggage drop-off points is located on the upper floor. From there, passengers proceed to pre-flight security screening. The arrival zone is located on the ground floor, where baggage claim belts and customs control are situated. Lifts and escalators are provided for convenient movement between levels.

Although there is only one terminal, passenger flows are smartly separated. After check-in, you will proceed to the appropriate zone: for Domestic or International flights. The international sector includes passport control booths and a more extensive area with duty-free shops. The domestic sector ensures quick access to boarding gates for those travelling within Turkey.

Thanks to modern equipment, passing through check-in and security control at Çukurova Airport usually does not take much time. Nevertheless, standard recommendations remain in force: it is advisable to arrive at the airport 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight. This time will be sufficient to complete all formalities without rushing, enjoy a coffee, and find your boarding gate.

Navigation through the terminal will not cause difficulties. Clear and understandable signs in Turkish and English are placed everywhere. Be sure to monitor information on the electronic boards — they display up-to-date data about your flight and gate number. Thanks to the compact and logical layout, orienting yourself in Çukurova Airport is easy even for first-time visitors.

The history of Çukurova International Airport (COV) is not a tale of decades of flights, but rather a modern saga of massive construction and high expectations. Unlike many older airports, its story began not with the first flight, but with an ambitious project intended to become the new transport heart for the entire region, including the cities of Adana, Mersin, and Tarsus.

The idea of building a new major airport in the Çukurova region emerged in the early 2010s. The main reason was the necessity to replace the existing Adana Şakirpaşa Airport, which is located within the city limits and has limited possibilities for expansion. Construction of Çukurova Airport began in 2013, however, the project faced numerous delays. The opening was postponed several times, making it one of the most anticipated infrastructure projects in modern Turkey. Finally, on 10 August 2024, the airport officially commenced operations, opening a new chapter in the development of air travel in the country's south.

Since the airport is brand new, its history does not yet contain stages of renovation or modernisation — it was designed and built to the most modern standards from the start. From day one, it boasts a spacious terminal, runways capable of accepting the largest passenger and cargo aircraft, as well as advanced technologies for passenger service and baggage handling.

One of the most interesting facts about the airport is its name. "Çukurova" is the name of the fertile plain on which it is situated. The project was conceived from the very beginning not only as a passenger hub but also as a powerful cargo hub intended to stimulate the economy and agriculture of the region. Thus, the history of Çukurova Airport is a story of how modern engineering and strategic planning create a future for an entire region, and its main achievement is its opening after more than a decade-long journey from blueprint to first flight.

Çukurova International Airport (COV) is a modern and well-equipped transport hub, designed with all travellers' needs in mind. Passengers are offered a wide range of services for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the terminal, you will find numerous restaurants and cafés where you can have a quick snack or a full meal, enjoying dishes of local and international cuisine. For shopping enthusiasts, stores are open, including a Duty Free zone with a large selection of perfumes, cosmetics, and souvenirs.

For those who value enhanced comfort, business lounges and VIP lounges are provided at the airport. Here you can relax in a quiet atmosphere, utilise additional services, and have a snack away from the main bustle. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous charging stations for gadgets will allow you to stay connected at all times. Simply find the nearest socket or USB port in the waiting areas.

At Çukurova Airport, all practical matters are also addressed. At your service are bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points, where you can easily conduct necessary financial transactions. In case of unforeseen health situations, a medical point operates in the terminal, ready to provide first aid at any time of day.

The airport cares for passengers of all categories. For travellers with small children, special mother and child rooms are equipped, where you can change and feed your baby in comfortable conditions. Passengers with reduced mobility can count on full accessibility of the environment: ramps, lifts, specially equipped restrooms, and an assistance service, which is recommended to be booked in advance through your airline.

Business travellers can make use of conference rooms and business services to hold meetings or work while waiting for a flight. If you have a long layover or an early departure, there are numerous hotels of various price categories located in the immediate vicinity of the airport, as well as in nearby cities such as Adana and Mersin, offering convenient accommodation and transfers.

In the new Çukurova International Airport (COV), passengers have access to a wide choice of establishments where they can have a snack or a full lunch while waiting for their flight. As in any modern transport hub in Turkey, options are presented here for every taste and budget.

Most cafés and restaurants are concentrated in the "airside" zone, after passing passport control and security screening. However, in the public arrivals and departures area (landside), you can also find coffee shops where it is convenient to drink a cup of coffee or tea while saying goodbye to those seeing you off. In the departure zone (airside), the choice is significantly wider: from fast-food outlets to restaurants with à la carte service.

For those who want a quick and filling bite, international fast-food chains are available. If you wish to experience local cuisine, look for establishments offering traditional Turkish dishes. Be sure to try fresh pastries, for example, the famous sesame bagel simit or the layered pastry börek with various fillings. This is an excellent option for a light breakfast or snack combined with aromatic Turkish tea.

In full-service restaurants, you can order more substantial dishes, such as kebabs, meze (a set of appetisers), and other classic items of Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine. Regarding dietary restrictions, Halal dishes are the standard for the majority of establishments. Vegetarians will easily find salads, vegetable side dishes, and meat-free pastries. If necessary, you can always check the ingredients of a dish with the staff.

The price range varies: from affordable prices in fast-food outlets to medium and above-average levels in restaurants. Main establishments, especially in the international departures zone, typically operate around the clock or adjust their schedule to flight times, so you will be able to find an open café even early in the morning or late at night.

To ensure your journey through Çukurova International Airport goes smoothly, take advantage of these tips. Planning in advance will help avoid stress and save time, especially if this is your first trip to Tarsus or Turkey.

Arrival at the Airport and Check-in. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2.5–3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 1.5–2 hours. This time is sufficient to go through all procedures without rushing, especially during the peak tourist season. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight if your airline provides this option. This will allow you to head straight to the baggage drop-off counter or, if you are travelling light, to the security screening zone.

Passing Control and Hand Luggage. During screening, be prepared to remove laptops, tablets, and other large gadgets from your hand luggage. Remember the rule for carrying liquids: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in a single transparent bag. Check the current weight and dimension limits for hand luggage on the airline's website in advance. Sharp and cutting objects are not allowed in it, and there are power restrictions for carrying power banks.

Seat Selection and Waiting for the Flight. When checking in, try to choose a seat that suits your preferences: by the window — for beautiful views, by the aisle — for freedom of movement. Seats by emergency exits usually offer more legroom but may have restrictions. In case of a flight delay, contact your airline representative. Depending on the length of the wait, you may be offered drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Check the terms of your travel insurance for such cases.

Customs Rules and Transfers. When entering or leaving the country, follow the "Green Channel" if you have no goods to declare. Large sums of cash and certain cultural valuables (for example, antique carpets or antiques) require mandatory declaration in the "Red Channel". If you have a connecting flight, clarify in advance whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage in Tarsus yourself or if it will be automatically forwarded to your final destination.