Ercan Airport History

Establishment of Ercan Airport

When was Ercan Airport established?

Foundation process and historical developments

Ercan Airportwas established in 1975 as the most important air transportation hub of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC). Named after the martyrs who were martyred during the Cyprus Peace Operation Turkish Air Force pilot Fehmi ErcanErcan Airport is the largest civilian airport in the north of the island. Initially used for military purposes, Ercan Airport has been opened to civilian air traffic over time and has become a point providing international connections to Northern Cyprus.

Ercan Airport's Development and Relocation to the New Terminal

New terminal building and expansion works

Renovated terminal and new settlement

Ercan AirportIn 2023, the airport was modernized and moved to its new terminal building within the scope of a major renovation and expansion project. This new terminal building contributes greatly to the international air traffic of Northern Cyprus with its architecture and modern services. With the relocation process, the airport has reached the capacity to serve more passengers and larger aircraft.

Services offered at the new terminal

The new terminal building features larger check-in areas, modern security systems and more waiting areas for passengers. The new terminal also offers duty-free shops, restaurants and other passenger services. Thanks to this new infrastructure, Ercan Airport is now able to host more international flights.

The Importance of Ercan Airport

Importance for tourism and trade in Northern Cyprus

Contribution to tourism

Ercan Airport is the main entry point for tourists to Northern Cyprus. As the only major airport providing air transportation to the north of the island, it plays a major role in the tourism sector. The increasing number of tourists, especially in the summer months, brings vitality to the hotels and holiday villages in the region. The fact that tourists can reach Northern Cyprus easily and quickly also positively affects the economy of the region.

Center of trade

Ercan Airport is of great importance not only for tourism but also for trade and logistics. Especially in the trade between Turkey and Northern Cyprus, Ercan Airport is used as an important logistics connection point. The increase in commercial flights has supported the commercial activities of Northern Cyprus.

Ercan Airport's International Connections

International flights from Ercan Airport

Links with Turkey

Ercan Airport's busiest international connections are with Turkey. Direct flights are provided to major cities in Turkey such as Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir. The air traffic between Turkey and Northern Cyprus is the most important connection point of Northern Cyprus with the outside world. Especially for international students and tourists studying at universities in Northern Cyprus, worldwide connections are provided through Turkey.

Indirect flights with other countries

Since Northern Cyprus is not recognized internationally, international flights from Ercan Airport are limited. However, it is possible to reach many countries around the world via Turkey. Although this situation constitutes an obstacle to improve the international connections of Northern Cyprus, international air transportation continues thanks to the strong ties with Turkey.

The Future of Ercan Airport

Future projects of Ercan Airport

Expansion projects and new investments

The future of Ercan Airport is being shaped by new terminal projects and runway expansion works. These projects are aimed at increasing the airport's passenger capacity and enabling it to serve larger aircraft. In addition, the airport is expected to open to more international flights and contribute more to the tourism sector.

New opportunities for tourism and trade

Given the tourism and trade potential of Northern Cyprus, the expansion projects of Ercan Airport will contribute greatly to these areas as well. More tourists coming to the island and increased trade will have a direct impact on the economic development of Northern Cyprus. Therefore, the modernization of the airport and its future projects are of great importance.