Süleyman Demirel International Airport

Overview

Isparta Süleyman Demirel Airport (IATA: ISE) is a regional airport serving the province of Isparta and the surrounding Lakes District of southwestern Turkey. Named after Süleyman Demirel, Turkey’s ninth president and a native of Isparta, the airport primarily handles domestic flights, with connections to Istanbul and Ankara from carriers such as Turkish Airlines and AnadoluJet. It also occasionally accommodates international charter flights, particularly during the summer months when tourists visit the region’s natural and historical sites. The airport is a vital gateway for passengers travelling to Isparta city, the nearby town of Burdur, and the wider Göller Bölgesi (Lakes Region), offering a more convenient alternative to the larger Antalya Airport for those headed inland.

Location & Access

The airport is located in the Keciborlu district of Isparta Province, approximately 45 kilometers northwest of Isparta city center and 30 kilometers west of Burdur. Its position in the fertile plain between the Taurus Mountains and the lakes makes it easily reachable by road. By car, the drive from Isparta takes about 40 minutes via the D650 highway, while from Burdur it is roughly 30 minutes. For those coming from Antalya (about 130 kilometers southeast), the journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.

Public transport options include regular shuttle services operated by Havaş and municipal buses that connect the airport to Isparta’s main bus terminal and city center. Taxis are also available outside the terminal, offering fixed fares to destinations in Isparta and Burdur. Rental car desks in the arrivals hall provide flexibility for exploring the region. Passengers should note that there is no direct rail connection, so road transport is the primary means of access.

Facilities

Despite its modest size, Isparta Süleyman Demirel Airport offers essential facilities for passenger comfort. The terminal is fully wheelchair-accessible, with designated parking spaces, an accessible entrance, and wheelchair-accessible toilets. Baggage storage is available, allowing travellers to secure luggage if they wish to explore the area before a flight. The restrooms include changing tables, a useful feature for families with infants. The airport’s peak hours are between 2:00 pm and 3:00 pm, when flights to and from Istanbul and Ankara are scheduled. During these times, the terminal can become moderately busy, but queues typically move quickly. Note that the airport is not open 24 hours a day; it operates according to flight schedules, so passengers are advised to confirm opening hours on the day of travel.

About the Region

Isparta Province is celebrated as the “City of Roses” due to its extensive rose fields, which supply the bulk of Turkey’s rose oil and rosewater used in perfumes and cosmetics. The region is equally famous for its apple orchards and hand-woven carpets, particularly the Isparta halı. Beyond agriculture, the area is a hub for outdoor activities, thanks to the Göller Bölgesi – a cluster of freshwater lakes including Lake Eğirdir (one of Turkey’s largest), Lake Burdur, and Lake Beyşehir. These lakes offer swimming, fishing, and boating, as well as birdwatching for species such as flamingos and pelicans.

History enthusiasts can visit the ancient city of Sagalassos, an impressive archaeological site with well-preserved Roman monuments, located about 40 kilometers east of Isparta. The city of Isparta itself has a charming old quarter, a large bazaar, and the 16th-century Ulu Mosque. The region’s mild Mediterranean climate makes it a year-round destination, with spring and autumn offering the most pleasant conditions for sightseeing.

Practical Information

Address: Isparta Süleyman Demirel Havalimanı, Keciborlu, Isparta, Turkey.
Phone: +90 246 559 20 08
Website: dhmi.gov.tr/Sayfalar/Havalimani/Suleymandemirel/AnaSayfa.aspx
Operating hours: The airport opens around flight times; it is not operational 24/7. Peak passenger flow occurs between 2:00 pm and 3:00 pm. For the most current flight and facility information, always check the official website or contact the airport directly. The terminal provides adequate seating, Wi-Fi, and a small café for refreshments. With its convenient location and essential amenities, Isparta Süleyman Demirel Airport serves as a comfortable entry point to one of Turkey’s most scenic and culturally rich regions.