Work on the fourth main runway of Istanbul Airport has reached its final stage, according to Turkish Minister of Transport and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloğlu.
The new runway is built on an east-west axis and measures 2,820 meters in length and 45 meters in width.
Width of the new east-west runway
Currently, Istanbul Airport operates with three main north-south oriented runways and two reserve runways.
The new runway is intended to support the goal of four-runway independent operations at the airport. It is also expected to contribute to safe operations during crosswind conditions and allow for more independent general aviation operations due to its proximity to hangar areas.
Operational impact and timeline
Minister Uraloğlu stated that the new runway will reduce taxi times and increase operational flexibility. He added that east-bound take-offs will be carried out from this runway during periods of suitable weather conditions.
Regarding the timeline, the temporary acceptance process is expected to be completed in August, though some indications suggest the process may be completed this month. Following technical tests, the new runway is aimed to begin operations in the last quarter of the year.
Uraloğlu said the runway would begin operations in the last quarter after technical tests.
