In a statement by İGA, the operator of Istanbul Airport, it was announced that the airport has risen to global leadership in the industry’s most comprehensive connectivity index, compiled to measure and rank airport connectivity.
Istanbul Airport increased its global hub connectivity by 59% compared to 2019, overtaking Frankfurt Airport—which had long held the top spot—to become the world’s most connected hub.
Following Istanbul Airport in the ranking were Dallas-Fort Worth Airport and Frankfurt Airport, the latter of which has experienced a 21% decline in global connectivity since 2019.
The report also highlighted that Istanbul Airport maintained its leadership in Europe in the “direct connectivity” category for the second consecutive year, as it did in 2024. The airport has increased its direct connections by 13% compared to 2019. While it ranked fifth before the pandemic, it now holds the title of Europe’s most directly connected airport.
“We will continue to offer our passengers an exceptional travel experience.”
In the statement, İGA CEO Selahattin Bilgen emphasized that Istanbul is now at the heart of global aviation thanks to its expanding flight network, strategic location, and high-quality services:
“This leadership position is not only a great source of pride for us but also for our country and region. The ACI EUROPE data once again proves that İGA Istanbul Airport is a strategic hub not just for Turkey, but for global aviation. With our strong performance in both direct and connecting flights, our airport continues to serve as a vital bridge within the global air transport network.”
Bilgen also stressed how Istanbul Airport rapidly and strategically adapted to the evolving dynamics of aviation in the post-pandemic era:
“Thanks to our strategic investments, passenger-centric service approach, and strong partnerships, we have transformed Istanbul into a global transfer hub. In the coming period, we will continue to grow, develop innovative solutions, and deliver an exceptional travel experience for our passengers.”