5 hour layover in Istanbul on separate tickets, is it enough time?
I will be traveling from the USA to Istanbul airport. My flight leaves from Denver and I have a connection in Frankfurt, Germany. I will arrive in Istanbul around 1730. I then take a flight to Tunis, Tunisia.
I have to go and collect my luggage and recheck it into Tunis Air because I had to buy two separate tickets. I have 5 hours and I hear that this airport is difficult to navigate. I do have a Turkish visa. Is this enough time, and is there anyway to ensure I do this in the fastest/most efficient way?
Best Answer
You have plenty of time for your transit. I have been at the new airport and only had 2 hours on 2 seperate tickets. Here is a map of the airport. The airport has good signs and live tables that show how much time you will need to walk to a gate area. To expedite your transit:
- Exit the airplane as early as possible so you can be the first on security check (which they always have in Turkey) though you dont have to be too feared (Border control is always well staffed, so large queues are unlikely)
- Make sure you know where your departure gate is after checking in your bags
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How long of a layover do I need in Istanbul?
For layover in New Istanbul Airport, we recommend you always have a layover of at least 10\u201312 hours so you can enjoy your time in Istanbul's city center; however you choose to spend it. The recommended layover duration is higher because New Istanbul Airport (IST) is located far away from the city center.Do I have to go through security again for connecting flight in Istanbul?
In Turkey, as in most of the world, clearing immigration is not required for an international to international connection. The passenger can remain airside, and does not need to enter Turkey. HOWEVER, the transfer passenger may have to go through transfer security inspection.What happens if you miss a connecting flight Turkish Airlines?
If you will miss a connecting flight Turkish Airlines will take care of that \u2014 mostly, according to the Turkish Airlines missed flight policy, you will be offered another flight completely for free. If it is a self transfer flight (you booked flights separately) \u2014 it is your responsibility.Can I go out of the airport during a layover in Istanbul?
You can definitely leave the airport and see the city and enjoy yourself. In fact if both of your flights are with Turkish Airlines, then you can have either a free hotel (if you qualify with a "forced layover") or free guided tours, whichever is more convenient for you.5-Hour IST Istanbul INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT LAYOVER Guide!!
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