Turkey: High winds causing significant flight disruptions in Istanbul Nov. 29

Event

High winds are causing significant flight disruptions at Istanbul Airport (IST) as of the evening of Nov. 29. Authorities were forced to suspend arrivals in the mid-afternoon, and most inbound flights diverted to Ankara (ESB), Antalya (AYT), or Izmir (ADB). Arrivals have since resumed in Istanbul, but inbound flights are still heavily delayed and having difficulty landing. Some inbound flights are continuing to divert.

Departures from IST are also being delayed or canceled, mostly due to the diversions of inbound aircraft. Flight disruptions will likely continue through the remainder of Nov. 29, even if the weather situation improves.

High winds have also delayed flights at Istanbul's Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), but disruptions at that airport have been less severe than those at IST.

Travelers should expect long lines at customer service desks, check-in desks, and security checkpoints at IST through the remainder of Nov. 29. Travelers should also expect high demand for alternative flights.

Advice

Confirm all flights. Consider alternative transportation options. If necessary, book alternative flights as soon as possible. Allow extra time for transit through IST airport.

Resources

Istanbul Airport: www.istairport.com

Sabiha Gökçen International Airport: www.sabihagokcen.aero