Trabzon International Airport

Overview

Trabzon Airport (TZX) is an international airport serving the city of Trabzon and the surrounding Black Sea region of northeastern Turkey. It handles both domestic and international flights, connecting this historic port city to major Turkish hubs like Istanbul and Ankara, as well as seasonal routes from European cities. The airport is a vital gateway for tourists heading to the Pontic Mountains, Uzungöl, and the famed Sumela Monastery, as well as for business travellers and the local population. With its single terminal, the airport offers a compact but functional experience for passengers.

Location & Access

Trabzon Airport is situated in the Ortahisar district, approximately 6 kilometres (4 miles) east of Trabzon’s city centre. Its coastal location means that the airport lies right along the Black Sea shoreline, with the runway running parallel to the sea. The main highway (D010) passes directly in front of the terminal, making it easy to reach by car or taxi.

By Taxi: Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals hall. The journey to the city centre takes around 15–20 minutes, depending on traffic. Fares are metered, and it is advisable to confirm the price before starting the trip.

By Public Transport: Municipal buses and dolmuş (shared minibuses) connect the airport to central Trabzon and nearby towns. Bus stops are located just outside the terminal. The most common route is to the central square (Atatürk Alanı).

By Car: The airport has a paid parking lot with spaces for short-term and long-term parking. The car park is wheelchair-accessible. Rental car agencies have desks in the arrivals area, offering convenient options for exploring the region.

Nearby Areas: The airport is also used by travellers heading to the provinces of Giresun, Rize, and Artvin, as well as to the popular plateau of Uzungöl, which is about a 1.5-hour drive away.

Facilities

Trabzon Airport provides essential amenities to ensure a comfortable travel experience. The terminal is equipped with:

• Wheelchair Accessibility: The car park, entrance, and toilets are all wheelchair-accessible, making the airport navigable for passengers with reduced mobility.
• Baggage Storage: A left-luggage service is available for passengers who wish to store bags for a few hours or days.
• Toilets and Changing Tables: Clean toilet facilities are provided, and there is a changing table for families with infants.
• On-Site Services: The terminal houses a small selection of shops, cafes, and a duty-free area (for international departures). Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal.
• Paid Parking: A secure parking lot is located adjacent to the terminal building.

While the airport is not large, it covers the basic needs of travellers. For more extensive shopping or dining, passengers may prefer to visit the city centre before their flight.

About the Region

Trabzon is the largest city on Turkey’s eastern Black Sea coast, with a history stretching back to ancient Greek and Roman times. It was the capital of the Empire of Trebizond (1204–1461) and later became an important Ottoman port. Today, it is known for its stunning natural scenery: lush green mountains, tea plantations, and dramatic cliffs plunging into the sea.

Key attractions:

• Sumela Monastery: A Greek Orthodox monastery clinging to a cliff face in the Pontic Mountains, about 50 km south of Trabzon. It is a UNESCO World Heritage candidate and the region’s top tourist site.
• Uzungöl: A picturesque lake surrounded by alpine meadows and dense forests, popular for hiking and photography.
• Trabzon City Centre: The historic Hagia Sophia (now a museum), the Atatürk Mansion, and the bustling bazaar are highlights.
• Black Sea Cuisine: Trabzon is famous for its anchovy (hamsi), kuymak (a cornmeal and cheese dish), and hazelnuts.

The region experiences a temperate oceanic climate with high rainfall, especially in autumn and winter. Summers are mild and pleasant, making it a popular escape from the heat of southern Turkey. The airport’s location at sea level means fog and low clouds can occasionally disrupt flights, particularly during winter.

Practical Information

• Website: Trabzon Airport Official Site
• Phone: +90 462 328 09 41
• Hours of Operation: The airport is not open 24 hours. It typically opens early in the morning (around 4–5 AM) and closes after the last flight, around midnight. Passengers arriving late at night may need to arrange transport in advance, as public buses stop running.
• Peak Hours: The busiest times are 8 PM and 9 PM, coinciding with the arrival or departure of multiple flights. Allow extra time for security queues during these periods.
• Currency: Turkish Lira (TRY) is the local currency. ATMs are available in the arrivals hall, and some shops accept credit cards.

For the most current flight information and any changes to services, passengers should check the official website or contact the airport directly.