Çanakkale Airport, opened in 1995, is a strategic air transportation hub that plays a role in both civil and military fields. With the modernization and expansion projects carried out over the years, the airport has become a preferred hub for national and international flights, as well as regional transportation.
Thanks to the new terminal, apron, ARFF building, and runway extension projects carried out since 2008, its capacity and service quality have been increased. The facility, which stands out with features such as barrier-free access and a green airport certificate, contributes to the regional economy and tourism with its infrastructure and direct flight opportunities to Istanbul and Ankara.
Establishment and Initial Service Period
Çanakkale Airport was first opened in 1995 with civil and military (Turkish Naval Froces) status. Planned to serve both domestic and international flights from the day it opened, the airport has played a critical role in the region's aviation infrastructure.
Re-Opening Process (2006)
The airport became idle a few years after its opening, but was reactivated as part of the Ministry of Transportation's regional aviation policy. On December 3, 2006, the airport was reopened with the participation of Minister of Transportation Binali Yıldırım, and the first flight to the airport was operated by Atlasjet on the Istanbul-Çanakkale route. During this period, international flights connecting to Istanbul via Çanakkale were also made possible.
Expansion and Modernization Works
- 2008: Construction of the new terminal building and apron was completed.
- 2010-2011: Construction of the ARFF (Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting) building began, entering service in July 2011.
- 2012-2014: The infrastructure was modernized with runway extension, PAT areas maintenance and repair projects, and the airport was reopened to air traffic.
- 2015-2017: Within the scope of the new terminal building and annexes project, a new apron with parking positions for three aircraft and an expanded terminal building came into service.
Physical and Technical Specifications
Basic Information
- City: Çanakkale
- Opening Year: 1995
- Status: Civil/Military
- ICAO Code: LTBH
- IATA Code: CKZ
- Traffic Type: Domestic and International
- Geographical Coordinates: 40º08'18.00"N - 26º25'40.00"E
Terminal and Apron Infrastructure
- Total Terminal Building Area: 12,500 m²
- Domestic Terminal: 1,823 m²
- International Terminal: 1,807 m²
- Total Aircraft Parking Positions: Two aprons with 5 aircraft capacity
- Counter Count: 14 (13 check-in counters + 1 disabled counter)
- Passport Counters: 4 for departing passengers, 3 for arriving passengers
- Baggage Conveyors: 1 for departing passengers, 2 for arriving passengers
- Service Points: VIP lounge, information desk, ticket sales office (THY), car rental company, buffet and ATM
Certificates and Qualifications
- Green Airport Certificate: Has infrastructure compliant with environmental sustainability principles.
- Accessible Airport: Meets accessibility standards.
Commencement of Istanbul-Çanakkale Flights
Launch of THY Flights (March 2019)
Turkish Airlines launched its first flight from Istanbul Airport to Çanakkale Airport on March 15, 2019, providing a new alternative for passenger traffic between the two hubs. Following this flight, the launch of reciprocal flights three days a week (Tuesday, Friday and Sunday) is considered as a strategic step towards strengthening the transportation network in the region. During the ceremony held upon the landing of the first flight, the plane's passage through the "water salute" area and the refreshments offered to passengers were among the prominent elements.
Importance of Flights
It has been stated that these flights not only offer a transportation line connected to Istanbul but also provide access to the whole world via Istanbul. This situation carries strategic importance for the integration of Çanakkale into transportation networks, especially in terms of international connections.
International Connections and Integration
With the re-opening process in 2006, Istanbul-centered international connections were enabled, and regular international flights, such as those to Brindisi (Italy), were launched. This development laid the groundwork for creating a transportation system integrated with Ro-Ro shipping. Thus, Çanakkale has drawn attention with integrated transportation projects that combine sea, land, and air routes.
