Trabzon Airport

Trabzon Airport (TZX), opened in 1957, is the aerial gateway to north-eastern Turkey, situated directly on the picturesque Black Sea coast. Its runway, stretching along the shore, offers travellers breathtaking views during take-off and landing. As one of the busiest airports in the region, it plays a key role in serving both domestic and international flights, connecting Trabzon with major cities in Turkey and the world. This air hub is particularly important for tourists seeking to explore the unique culture and nature of the Black Sea coast.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

One of the main advantages of Trabzon Airport is its incredible proximity to the city: the distance to the centre is only about 6 kilometres, making transfers quick and convenient. The airport has two terminals—for domestic and international flights—which helps to efficiently distribute passenger flows. Despite its relatively small size, the airport offers all necessary services for a comfortable journey: there are cafes, relaxation zones, and shops. Its strategic location makes it an ideal starting point for travels across the entire Black Sea region of Turkey.

For your convenience, we have collected the main contact information for Trabzon Airport. We recommend checking the validity of the data on official resources before your trip.

• Official Website: www.trabzon.dhmi.gov.tr
• Help Desk Phone: +90 462 328 09 40
• Address: Trabzon Havalimanı, Konaklar Mahallesi, 61010 Ortahisar/Trabzon, Turkey
• Email: infotrabzon@dhmi.gov.tr
• Social Media: The airport does not have separate official pages on social media. All up-to-date information can be found on the official website.
• Lost & Found: If you have lost luggage or personal items on board the aircraft, you should first contact your airline's representative. For items lost within the terminal building, please contact the information desk.
• Passenger Support: For enquiries and assistance, you may use the airport help desk phone number.

Getting to Trabzon Airport (TZX) from the city centre or, conversely, from the airport to the city, is quite simple due to its close location. The journey takes little time, and the variety of transport options allows you to choose the most suitable one for your budget and comfort level. The airport is located just a few kilometres from the central Meydan Square, making it one of the most accessible in Turkey.

Public Transport is the most economical method. The main option is buses. Specialised Havaş shuttles operate between the airport, the centre of Trabzon, and some other key points in the region, such as Rize. This is a convenient and reliable method with a fixed schedule linked to flights. Additionally, you can use municipal city buses that pass near the airport—this is an even more budget-friendly option but may require more time. A bus ride from the city centre (Meydan Square) to the airport usually takes 15-30 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Taxis and Private Transfers offer maximum comfort. Taxi stands are located right at the exit of the arrival terminal. A taxi ride to the city centre will take just 10-15 minutes. It is recommended to ensure the driver has switched on the meter (taksimetre) or to agree on a fixed price before starting the journey. For greater convenience, especially if you are travelling with family or large luggage, you can book a private transfer in advance. In this case, you will be met with a name sign, and the cost will be known beforehand.

Car Rental is an excellent choice for those planning to actively travel along the scenic Black Sea coast and mountainous areas. Both international and local rental companies operate offices at Trabzon Airport. By booking a car in advance, you can set off on your journey immediately after arrival, for example, to Uzungöl Lake or Sumela Monastery. The drive to the city centre in a rented car will also take no more than 15 minutes.

For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented vehicle, convenient parking is provided. The territory features zones for both short-term and long-term parking, located in immediate proximity to the terminal.

Trabzon Airport (TZX) has a simple and clear structure, making it convenient for passengers. It consists of two main terminals located in separate but adjacent buildings: Domestic and International.

The Domestic Terminal (İç Hatlar Terminali) serves all flights within Turkey. This is the older and larger building, which is generally busier due to the high frequency of internal flights. Most check-in counters, cafes, and shops are concentrated here. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated but located within the same building.

The International Terminal (Dış Hatlar Terminali) is a modern building designed for all flights outside the country. It is smaller in size and usually not as crowded as the domestic one, except during peak dates of the tourist season. It also has its own check-in zones, passport control, departure areas, and arrivals with customs control.

The airport layout is extremely simple. Since the terminals are in close proximity to each other, moving between them is done on foot and takes no more than 5-7 minutes. No special shuttles or buses are required for this, which is very convenient for transfers. Signs in both terminals are duplicated in English, facilitating navigation for foreign tourists.

For check-in and security screening, it is recommended to allow standard time: about 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight and 2-3 hours before an international one. In summer months and on national holidays, passenger traffic increases significantly, so it is better to arrive with a little extra time. The main tip for navigation is to check in advance from which terminal (domestic or international) your flight operates, so you can head straight to the correct building.

The history of Trabzon Airport (TZX) is closely linked to the development of the entire Black Sea region of Turkey. Officially opened in 1957, it initially served both civil and military purposes, highlighting its strategic importance on the coast. Originally, it was a modest airfield, but with the growing popularity of Trabzon as a tourism and trade hub, the need for expansion arose.

A key stage in the airport's development began at the start of the 21st century. Due to the rapid growth in passenger traffic, particularly driven by tourists from the Gulf countries, a decision was made to build a new terminal. In 2008, a modern international terminal was inaugurated, significantly increasing capacity and improving service levels. Later, the terminal for domestic flights was also modernised. Today, Trabzon Airport consistently ranks among the top ten busiest in the country in terms of passenger volume, especially during the summer season.

One of the most remarkable features of the airport is its location. It is built in immediate proximity to the sea, and its single runway runs parallel to the coastline. Part of the land for the runway and aprons was created artificially by reclaiming land and filling it with soil. Thanks to this, passengers can enjoy breathtaking views of the Black Sea and the picturesque hills surrounding the city during take-off and landing, making arrival in Trabzon truly unforgettable.

Trabzon Airport (TZX) provides passengers with all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the terminal is well-equipped and offers various amenities for both domestic and international travellers.

Several cafes and fast-food outlets operate in the airport, where you can have a snack or drink Turkish coffee before departure. For those planning to shop, there are stores, including a Duty-Free zone, featuring a standard assortment of perfumes, tobacco products, and souvenirs. For a more comfortable wait, passengers can use the services of the CIP lounge, offering a cosy atmosphere, snacks, and beverages.

Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected. Charging stations for electronic devices are also provided. For financial matters, there are bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points. In case of necessity, passengers can visit the first aid station.

Mother and child rooms are equipped for travellers with children. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with special assistance for moving around the terminal, as well as adapted restrooms and ramps. Although there are no hotels directly within the airport building, many accommodation options are located in close proximity, in the city of Trabzon itself, which can be reached in a few minutes by taxi.

At Trabzon Airport, passengers will find several establishments where they can pleasantly spend time waiting for a flight, whether for a quick snack or a full meal. Food outlets are conveniently located both in the public area before security control and in the "airside" departure zone. Passengers of both the domestic and international terminals are served, so no one will go hungry.

If time is limited, several cafes are at your service where you can energise yourself with a cup of aromatic Turkish coffee or tea, as well as grab sandwiches, fresh pastries, or desserts. This is an excellent choice for a light breakfast. For those with time to spare, restaurants operate in the departure zone. Here, in a calm atmosphere, dishes of Turkish and international cuisine are served, including hot soups, kebabs, and other hearty treats.

Even while at the airport, do not miss the opportunity to experience the gastronomy of Turkey. Pay attention to local pastries: for example, the famous sesame bagel simit or the savoury bun poğaça. Some establishments may also offer adapted versions of restaurant favourites, such as pide—a traditional boat-shaped flatbread with various fillings.

It is worth noting that prices in airport establishments are generally noticeably higher than the city average, which is standard practice. Most cafes and restaurants synchronise their operations with the flight schedule, and some key points are open 24/7. Finding Halal dishes will be effortless, as this is the standard for the country. Vegetarians also have access to various salads and snacks. It may be more difficult to find vegan and gluten-free items, so it is better to study the menu in advance or check with the staff.

To ensure your journey through Trabzon Airport goes as smoothly as possible, use our tips. These recommendations will help you save time, stress, and money, as well as prepare for various situations.

Arrival Time at the Airport. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure for domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights. During the peak tourist season (summer) and during religious holidays, the airport can be particularly busy, so it is better to allow extra time for completing all formalities.

Check-in and Security Control. To save time, use online check-in for your flight if your airline provides this option. This allows you to proceed directly to the baggage drop counter or, if you are travelling light, head straight to the security zone. Have your passport and boarding pass ready in advance. During security control, be prepared to remove laptops, tablets, and liquids from your hand luggage into a separate tray.

Seat Selection on the Plane. If it is possible to choose a seat in advance, consider your preferences. Window seats will offer you magnificent views of the Black Sea coast during take-off or landing. Aisle seats are convenient if you plan to get up during the flight without disturbing your neighbours.

Hand Luggage. Standard rules for most airlines allow carrying liquids in containers of no more than 100 ml each, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited in hand luggage. Be sure to pack valuables, documents, necessary medication, a portable charger, and a change of clothes in your carry-on in case of luggage delay.

Connecting Passengers. Trabzon Airport mainly serves direct flights, but if you have a connection, check at check-in whether you need to collect your luggage and re-register it. Leave enough time between flights, especially if the connection is organised by different airlines.

Customs Control. Standard customs rules apply when entering Turkey. If you have no goods to declare, feel free to pass through the "Green Channel". If you are carrying items exceeding duty-free allowances (for example, large quantities of tobacco products or cash), you must pass through the "Red Channel" and declare these goods.

Saving Time and Money. Book a transfer from the airport to the city online in advance—this is often cheaper than taking a taxi on the spot. Bring an empty water bottle to fill at drinking fountains after passing security control and avoid spending money on overpriced water.

In Case of Flight Delay. Remain calm and monitor the information on the departure boards. Contact your airline representative for information on the flight status. Depending on the duration of the delay, the airline is obliged to provide you with drinks, meals, and for long delays, hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts for expenses that may be compensated.