As Türkiye’s capital city, Ankara is the center of government, diplomacy, and business, making it a frequent destination for corporate and government-related private aviation traffic. The city is served by Ankara Esenboğa Airport (LTAC)—the sole airport for civil operations and the designated gateway for business aviation. Whether you’re supporting a diplomatic mission, government summit, or business delegation, here’s what you need to know about operating into LTAC.

Airport Overview

Ankara Esenboga International Airport in Ankara. Turkey

Ankara Esenboğa Airport (LTAC) is the only airport serving the city for civil aviation, located 30 km from Ankara’s city center. The airport is open 24/7, with no curfews, offering excellent flexibility for business aviation operations.

Slot Requirements & Parking

LTAC is a slot-coordinated airport, and slots are mandatory for both arrivals and departures—whether international or domestic. Operators must advise slot coordination of all operations, including schedule changes and delays, with requests submitted at least 24 hours before ETA.

Important Notes:

• Arrival slots cannot be changed after the aircraft has departed from the origin airport.

• Slot validity is ±20 minutes for both arrival and departure.

• For flights with more than 6 hours of enroute time, arrival slot validity remains ±20 minutes.

• Fines may be issued for non-compliance with approved slot times.

Parking is generally available year-round. Parking stands are assigned upon approach, and while hangar space is not available, Universal Aviation Türkiye can assist in coordinating extended stays with authorities.

General Aviation Terminal (GAT)

Use of the General Aviation Terminal (GAT) is mandatory at LTAC for all business aviation traffic. The GAT is operated by TAV and includes private lounges and fast-track CIQ services.

A GAT usage fee is charged per person, per usage, applicable to both international and domestic operations.

Note: A special permit is required for any aircraft carrying more than 21 passengers to use the GAT.

Universal Aviation Türkiye provides full Representation, Supervision, and Management services on-site at LTAC to ensure seamless handling.

Customs, Immigration & Agriculture

CIQ processing is available 24/7 for both international and domestic flights. Upon arrival, a Universal Aviation Türkiye representative, along with a customs official and police officer, will meet the aircraft at the parking area to conduct a headcount, passport check, and onboard inspection.

Once this is complete, passengers are transported by VIP vehicle to the General Aviation Terminal (GAT) for immigration processing. The entire process typically takes 10–15 minutes, though timing may vary depending on passenger count and airport traffic.

To help reduce delays, operators are encouraged to submit passenger information in advance so it can be shared with the appropriate authorities ahead of arrival.

Handling Services

LTAC has full service ground handling companies, including Universal Aviation Türkiye.

While most standard equipment is available, towbars and pushback vehicles are not provided, so operators must plan accordingly.

Fuel Availability

Jet A-1 fuel is available 24/7 at LTAC. The airport supports heavy commercial and governmental traffic, and fuel supply is consistent and reliable. However, it’s strongly recommended to submit a Fuel Release (F/R) through Universal Aviation Türkiye in advance to avoid potential delays, especially during VIP events or peak periods.

Inflight Catering

Inflight catering is available via authorized local providers.

• Storage at the airport is not permitted due to health regulations.

• Catering orders must be placed at least 24 hours in advance, with revisions allowed up to 12 hours prior to departure.

Hotels

Recommended hotels for crew and passengers include:

• JW Marriott Ankara
• Sheraton Ankara
• HiltonSA Ankara

All are located within a reasonable distance from LTAC and provide suitable accommodations for business aviation personnel.

Ground Transportation

Ahmet Hamdi Akseki Mosque in Ankara Turkey, taken from rooftop of TOBB Twin Towers.

Transportation options for VIP passengers are diverse and reliable. The preferred method is a pre-arranged chauffeured vehicle, such as a Mercedes E/S-Class or VIP minivan.

• Taxis and Uber are available on request

• Metro/subway services are not available

Security

Security at LTAC is robust and managed by airport authorities and police with 24/7 surveillance, fencing, and patrols.

• Armed private security is not permitted airside

• Unarmed aircraft security can be arranged via approved third-party providers

Given the existing infrastructure, additional security is generally not necessary.

Peak Season & High-Traffic Events

While Ankara does not experience a conventional tourism peak season, certain government events, national holidays, and diplomatic summits may temporarily affect traffic at LTAC.

Events to watch for:

• Republic Day – October 29

• Victory Day – August 30

• National Sovereignty Day – April 23

• Occasional international summits or state visits

Universal Aviation Türkiye can help monitor event schedules and assist with proactive planning.

Weather Considerations

Panoramic Ankara view with Anitkabir in winter time.

Ankara experiences a continental climate with hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. Snow and ice during winter months may impact flight operations and should be accounted for in planning. Summer conditions are generally stable, but heat can affect aircraft performance.

Conclusion

Ankara Esenboğa Airport (LTAC) offers a solid infrastructure and efficient services for business aviation operators flying into Türkiye’s capital. With its mandatory GAT, all-year slot coordination, and VIP-friendly handling, LTAC ensures a professional arrival experience.

Advance planning is essential, especially during national events or high-profile government activity. Universal Aviation Türkiye is available on-site to provide complete mission support, from slot coordination and fuel releases to CIQ processing and VIP handling.