Samsun-Çarşamba Airport

Overview

Samsun Çarşamba Airport (IATA: SZF, ICAO: LTBQ) is the primary air gateway to the central Black Sea region of Turkey. Located in the Çarşamba district, the airport serves the city of Samsun and the surrounding provinces of Amasya, Ordu, and Tokat. It handles a mix of domestic and limited international flights, primarily connecting to Istanbul (both IST and SAW), Ankara, and other Turkish hubs. The airport is a vital link for both leisure and business travellers, providing access to the agricultural heartland of the region and the historic city of Samsun, a key port on the Black Sea. The terminal operates on a limited schedule—not 24 hours daily—with peak passenger traffic typically around 9 pm to 10 pm, reflecting the arrival of evening flights from Istanbul.

Location & Access

Samsun Çarşamba Airport is situated approximately 23 kilometres east of Samsun city centre, within the boundaries of Çarşamba district. The address is Çarşamba Havaalanı, 55500 Çarşamba/Samsun, Turkey. The airport is easily accessible by road via the D010 coastal highway, which runs along the Black Sea shore. For passengers driving from Samsun, the journey takes about 20 to 30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. From Ordu (to the east), the drive is roughly 90 minutes; from Amasya (to the south), about 1.5 hours.

Public transport options include Havaş shuttle buses, which connect the airport to Samsun city centre and major hotels. Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals hall, with fixed fares to central Samsun. Rental car agencies (such as Avis, Budget, and local firms) operate from the terminal, offering convenient self-drive options for exploring the region. The airport's paid parking lot is located adjacent to the terminal, providing short-term and long-term spaces.

Facilities

Samsun Çarşamba Airport is a relatively compact terminal but offers essential amenities for travellers. Confirmed on-site facilities include:

• Wheelchair-accessible car park: Designated spaces close to the terminal entrance.
• Wheelchair-accessible entrance: Ramped access and automatic doors for ease of entry.
• Wheelchair-accessible toilet: A dedicated accessible restroom within the terminal.
• Baggage storage: Lockers or a storage desk for passengers needing to leave luggage.
• Toilets: Clean and well-maintained public restrooms.
• Changing table(s): Baby changing facilities are available in the restrooms, making the airport family-friendly.
• Paid parking lot: On-site parking with fees payable at machines or a kiosk.
• On-site services: While not detailed, general on-site services may include car rental desks, a small café/snack bar, and a souvenir shop. Wi-Fi is typically available free of charge for a limited period.

Accessibility is a priority, with the terminal designed to accommodate passengers with reduced mobility. The airport is compact, making navigation straightforward.

About the Region

Samsun is the largest city on the Turkish Black Sea coast, a bustling port and agricultural hub. The region is renowned for producing high-quality tobacco, hazelnuts, and tea, and its fertile plains are watered by the Yeşilırmak and Kızılırmak rivers, which form extensive deltas and wetlands. These deltas are important bird sanctuaries, attracting nature enthusiasts for birdwatching.

Historically, Samsun holds a significant place in modern Turkish history: it was here, on 19 May 1919, that Mustafa Kemal Atatürk arrived to launch the Turkish War of Independence, an event commemorated by the Bandırma Ferry Museum and the Atatürk Monument on the coast. Other nearby attractions include the ancient city of Amisos (located on a hill overlooking the city), the Amazon Village (celebrating the mythical warrior women), and the scenic highlands of the surrounding mountains. The region's cuisine features abundant seafood, especially anchovies (hamsi), and hearty dishes like kuymak (a cornmeal and cheese fondue). Travellers often use Samsun as a base to explore the Black Sea coast or to venture inland to the historic towns of Amasya and Tokat.

Practical Information

• Operating Hours: Samsun Çarşamba Airport is not open 24 hours a day. Its hours generally align with flight schedules, typically opening around 5:00–6:00 am and closing after the last departure, which is often before midnight. The busiest period is during the evening peak (9–10 pm). Passengers with early or late flights should check with their airline for specific terminal access.
• Website: www.dhmi.gov.tr – the official site of Turkish State Airports Authority (DHMi) dedicated to Samsun Çarşamba Airport. The site provides real-time flight information, parking details, and contact options.
• Phone: +90 362 844 88 30 – for inquiries about lost property, general information, or accessibility assistance.
• Parking: Paid parking is available directly in front of the terminal. Rates are moderate and can be paid in cash or by credit card at the exit payment machines.

When flying from Samsun, it is advisable to arrive at least 1.5 hours before domestic departures and 2 hours before international flights, as security screening can be thorough. The airport is small but efficient, and the friendly staff help ensure a smooth travel experience.