Turkish Airlines implements Europe’s first Triple Independent Runway Operations
The new operations became effective on 17th April
Turkish Airlines marked a historic milestone in Türkiye’s aviation journey as iGA Istanbul Airport became the first in Europe to implement Triple Independent Runway Operations on Thursday, 17th April.
This remarkable advancement reinforces the airport’s role as our global hub and solidifies Türkiye’s strategic position at the heart of international air travel.
The launch was attended by Türkiye’s minister of transport and infrastructure Abdulkadir Uraloglu, General Directorate of State Airports Authority (DHMI) chair and general director Enes Çakmak,Turkish Airlines’ chairman of the board and executive committee Ahmet Bolat, and iGA Istanbul Airport board member Mehmet Kalyoncu among others.
The launch saw three Turkish Airlines aircraft take off simultaneously under live operations, highlighting not only the capabilities of iGA Istanbul Airport but also the strength and sophistication of Türkiye’s aviation ecosystem.
A notable first
Emphasising that the Triple Independent Runway Operations mark a first for Türkiye and European aviation and a historic step for global aviation, Uraloglu expressed pride on how Türkiye is currently the only country to implement this system.
He said: “Istanbul Airport has now risen to the top tier of global aviation: not only with its traffic volume but also in terms of operational capacity and technical capability. With this system, air traffic flow will accelerate, the dynamic capacity of our airport will significantly increase, and we will offer our passengers faster and safer service. When Istanbul’s strategic location, which bridges continents, is combined with this new capability, our airport will take on an even more critical role in global aviation logistics.”
Bolat added: “As Turkish Airlines, we are proud to be part of yet another historic moment for Turkish aviation. With the simultaneous take-off of three of our aircraft, our main hub iGA Istanbul Airport has achieved a first in Europe. This operational capacity will enhance the efficiency of our flights and serve as a significant milestone on our path toward continued growth.”
With the integration of Triple Independent Runway Operations, iGA Istanbul Airport has increased its hourly aircraft movement capacity, significantly boosting operational efficiency.
For Turkish Airlines, this means shorter taxi times, fewer delays, and enhanced punctuality, thus delivering a smoother, faster, and more sustainable experience for flag carrier’s guests.
The system also contributes to reducing carbon emissions, aligning with global airline’s long-term environmental commitments.
