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Türkiye inaugurated the Ankara Airport on Monday, bringing a second civilian airport into service in the capital ahead of the NATO summit in July, where world leaders are expected to arrive through the newly modernized facility.
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan officially launched the airport, formerly known as the military-use Etimesgut Airport, during a ceremony in Ankara. Operating under the code "ANK," the airport will handle both domestic and international flights after an eight-month modernization project.
The facility is expected to play a central role during the NATO summit scheduled for July 7-8, helping accommodate increased diplomatic traffic while easing pressure on Ankara's main gateway, Esenboga Airport.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Erdogan highlighted Ankara's growing place in international diplomacy as Türkiye prepares to host another major global gathering.
"Ankara's importance in diplomatic traffic is increasing day by day. The circulation of foreign delegations coming to Ankara is also rising," Erdoğan underscored.
He noted that Türkiye recently hosted participants from 183 countries at a Zero Waste event and is preparing to welcome NATO leaders next month. According to Erdogan, more than 51,962 flights and over 7 million passengers were served across the country during the recent nine-day holiday period.
The president also described the project as the revival of a historic aviation facility originally built in 1933. "We not only brought a new project to our capital but also restored an important asset," Erdogan said.
The redevelopment expanded the runway from 2,450 meters to 3,000 meters and increased its width from 42 meters to 60 meters, enabling wide-body aircraft to operate safely. Authorities also built two turning bays with a combined area of 15,000 square meters and added a 160,000-square-meter apron capable of accommodating up to 44 aircraft simultaneously.
Transport and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu said earlier that the upgraded hub will support both national and international flights while helping Ankara manage growing diplomatic and protocol-related travel.
The overhaul included the reconstruction of taxiways, new parallel and connecting routes, upgraded lighting and navigation systems, and the renewal of mechanical, electrical and drainage infrastructure in line with international aviation standards.
Additional facilities include a 4,800-square-meter state guesthouse and an open parking area with capacity for 310 vehicles.
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