Erzurum International Airport

Overview

Erzurum Airport (Erzurum Havalimanı) serves the city of Erzurum and the surrounding region in eastern Turkey. It functions as a domestic and international gateway, handling flights primarily from Istanbul, Ankara, and other major Turkish cities, as well as seasonal international charters, particularly during the winter ski season. The airport is operated by the Turkish State Airports Authority (DHMİ) and plays a vital role in connecting this high-altitude region with the rest of the country and beyond. Passengers using this airport typically include tourists heading to the Palandöken Ski Center, one of Turkey’s premier winter sports destinations, as well as business travellers and local residents. The airport is relatively compact but well-appointed for its passenger volume.

Location & Access

Erzurum Airport is located approximately 11 kilometres (7 miles) southwest of the city centre, in the Yakutiye district. The airport is situated on the Erzurum plain, at an elevation of about 1,758 metres (5,768 feet) above sea level, making it one of the highest airports in Turkey. The region’s mountainous terrain and cold climate influence operations, with occasional winter disruptions due to snow or fog.

By car: The airport is easily reached via the D-100 highway (E-80) that connects Erzurum to the west (Refahiye, Sivas) and east (Kars, Iran). From the city centre, follow the Yakutiye direction towards the airport; the drive takes approximately 15–20 minutes in normal traffic. Paid parking is available directly in front of the terminal, with both short-term and long-term options.

By taxi: Taxis are readily available at the airport for trips to the city centre or to ski resorts. The fare to the city centre is generally fixed or metered; it’s advisable to agree on a price before departure if not using a meter. For those heading to Palandöken (about 20 km from the airport), taxi is the most convenient option.

By public transport: Municipal buses (Havaş or similar) and minibuses connect the airport to the city centre, with schedules aligned to flight arrivals. In Erzurum, the central bus station (Otogar) is located near the city centre, and local dolmuş services operate on main routes. The airport bus stop is just outside the terminal.

Nearby cities: The airport also serves travellers bound for other eastern Anatolian destinations. Kars is about 200 km northeast (2.5 hours by road), while the historic city of Trabzon on the Black Sea coast is about 260 km northwest (3.5 hours). The ski resort town of Palandöken is only 20 km east of the airport.

Facilities

The terminal offers essential services to ensure a comfortable journey. Confirmed amenities include:

• Accessibility: The airport is equipped with wheelchair-accessible parking, entrance, and toilets, making it suitable for passengers with reduced mobility. Changing tables are available in restrooms.
• Baggage storage: Left-luggage facilities are present, allowing passengers to store bags securely for a few hours or days if needed.
• Toilets: Clean, well-maintained restrooms are located in both arrivals and departures areas. Baby changing tables are fitted in accessible toilets.
• Parking: A paid parking lot operates directly in front of the terminal, with clearly marked spaces for disabled drivers. Payment can be made at the exit gate using cash or credit card.

While the airport does not have extensive shopping or dining, there is a small café and a newsstand after security. For those with time to spare, the waiting areas are comfortable and have charging points. Free Wi-Fi is typically available.

About the Region

Erzurum is a historic city situated on a high plateau in eastern Anatolia, at an altitude of nearly 1,900 metres. The region has a harsh continental climate, with cold, snowy winters and mild summers. It has been a crossroads of civilizations for millennia, bearing traces of Seljuk, Ottoman, and Armenian heritage. Notable landmarks include the Çifte Minareli Medrese (a 13th-century theological school) and the Erzurum Castle.

Most travellers visit Erzurum for winter sports. The Palandöken Ski Center, located just 20 km from the airport, offers excellent skiing and snowboarding on well-groomed slopes that are among the longest in Turkey. The ski season typically runs from December to April. In summer, the region attracts hikers and nature enthusiasts drawn to the nearby Tortum Waterfall and the historic ruins of Ani (near Kars).

The local cuisine is hearty, featuring dishes such as cağ kebabı (horizontal rotisserie lamb) and su böreği (layered pastry). Erzurum is also known for its traditional crafts, including handwoven carpets and metalwork.

Practical Information

• Address: Erzurum Havalimanı, Yakutiye, Erzurum, Turkey.
• Phone: +90 442 327 28 37
• Website: DHMİ Erzurum Airport
• Hours: The airport terminal is not open 24 hours; it operates according to flight schedules. Peak traffic typically occurs in the evening around 8–9 pm when multiple flights arrive. Passengers should check their flight times and plan accordingly. For early morning departures, the airport opens approximately two hours before the first flight. It is advisable to arrive at least 90 minutes before domestic flights and two hours before international departures.

Travellers are advised to confirm opening hours with the airport directly or through their airline, as they may vary seasonally. The parking lot, however, is accessible at all times for those leaving vehicles.