Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloğlu announced that with the triple independent runway operation starting today at Istanbul Airport, three aircraft will be able to land or take off on completely independent runways simultaneously. Uraloğlu highlighted that a historical step has been taken in air traffic management at Istanbul Airport. The “simultaneous triple independent runway operation” will commence today at Istanbul Airport. Uraloğlu stated that the system will begin at 10.00 and mentioned, “With this system, Istanbul Airport will be capable of handling three aircraft landing or taking off on completely autonomous runways simultaneously.” This system, already implemented in the U.S., will make Istanbul Airport the first in Europe to adopt the triple runway operation. Uraloğlu emphasized that the implementation of this system will optimize the usage of runways efficiently.

Uraloğlu also underscored that with the triple independent runway operation, the traffic flow at Istanbul Airport will accelerate, and its dynamic capacity will increase. He stated, “This system has been successfully applied in the U.S., and Istanbul Airport will be the first in Europe to adopt the triple runway operation.” Uraloğlu mentioned that the project planning started in the fourth quarter of 2022, with meetings, risk analyses, safety drills, and simulations conducted in collaboration with EUROCONTROL, State Airports Administration, Civil Aviation General Directorate, and Turkish Airlines in 2023 and 2024. Uraloğlu confirmed that all necessary preparations have been completed following the safety analysis report prepared by EUROCONTROL. He added, “New airspace design has been implemented, control systems have been adjusted for triple operations, airlines have been informed. Our air traffic controllers have been trained with our domestic and national simulator. The technology required to support triple runway operations is highly advanced and complex. The system includes advanced radars, precise navigation aids, and robust air traffic control protocols.” These elements ensure the safe execution of simultaneous operations and uninterrupted air-to-ground traffic. The system also features automated structures to predict flight paths and flows, playing a crucial role in preventing runway violations and ensuring smooth traffic management.