Erzincan Airport

Overview

Erzincan Airport (IATA: ERC) is a domestic airport serving the city of Erzincan in eastern Turkey. Located on the Erzincan Plain, it primarily handles flights from Istanbul and Ankara, connecting this inland region to the rest of the country. The airport is operated by the Turkish State Airports Authority (DHMİ) and is a small but modern facility designed for regional traffic. It serves both business travellers and tourists visiting the province’s historical and natural sites, as well as local residents. The terminal is compact, making navigation easy, and it processes a steady flow of passengers throughout the day, with peak activity observed in the late afternoon.

Location & Access

Erzincan Airport is situated about 10 kilometres east of the city centre, in the Erzincan Merkez district. The journey by road takes approximately 15–20 minutes via the D100 highway, which connects the airport to the city and beyond. The airport’s location on the plain means it is easily accessible by private car, taxi, and local minibus services. Taxis are available at the terminal, and the fare into town is reasonable. For those driving, the airport has a car park with designated spaces for passengers with reduced mobility. There is no direct rail or metro connection, so road transport is the primary option. The airport also serves as a gateway to nearby attractions such as the Kemaliye (Eğin) district, famous for its canyon and historical houses, and the Munzur Valley National Park, about two hours’ drive away.

Facilities

Erzincan Airport offers a straightforward set of amenities suitable for a domestic terminal. Wheelchair accessibility is well catered for: the car park has dedicated accessible spaces, the entrance is step-free, and there are wheelchair-accessible toilets inside the terminal. The airport also provides baggage storage services, ideal for travellers who want to explore the city without their luggage. Standard toilets are available, and there is a baby changing table in the restroom, making the facility family-friendly. While the airport does not have extensive shopping or dining options, there is typically a small café or snack bar in the departures area. Given the limited facilities, passengers are advised to carry any essential snacks or reading material. The terminal is clean and well maintained, with clear signage in Turkish and English.

About the Region

Erzincan is a province in the Eastern Anatolia region, known for its dramatic landscapes and historical significance. The city lies in a fertile plain surrounded by the Munzur, Keşiş, and Esence mountains, which offer opportunities for trekking, rafting, and winter sports. The Euphrates River flows through the province, and the region is part of the larger historical area of Armenia and Byzantium. Notable sites include the Erzincan Castle, the 13th-century Çadırçukuru mosaic in Altıntepe, and the Kemaliye Canyons, a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The local cuisine features dishes like Erzincan tulum cheese, a tangy aged cheese, and various kebabs. Earthquakes have shaped the region’s history; the 1939 Erzincan earthquake was one of the largest in Turkey, and the city has been rebuilt since. Today, Erzincan is a growing provincial capital with a university and a mix of modern and traditional architecture. Travelers often pass through the airport en route to nearby hot springs, such as those at Çağlayan, or to explore the remote valleys of the Eastern Anatolia region.

Practical Information

• Airport Code: ERC
• Address: Erzincan Airport, Erzincan Merkez, Erzincan Province, Turkey
• Phone: +90 446 226 21 06
• Website: Official DHMİ page
• Hours of Operation: The airport operates daily but is not open 24 hours. It serves flights during daytime and early evening hours, with peak traffic around 5 pm and 6 pm. Passengers should check their flight times and arrive at least 1.5 hours before departure, as the terminal may not be open outside scheduled flights.
• Parking: On-site parking is available, with accessible spaces.
• Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY) is used. There is no currency exchange desk at the airport, so visitors should obtain cash in town. Most establishments in the city accept credit cards.
• Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is available in the terminal, though speeds may vary.
• Baggage: Baggage storage is offered; rates can be confirmed at the information desk.

For current flight schedules and additional services, consult the official website or call the airport directly. Given the limited facilities, passengers are recommended to carry essential items and allow extra time for check-in and security procedures.