Cukurova International Airport to create 3,000 jobs and generate €297M in revenue
Türkiye’s new Çukurova International Airport, strategically located between Adana and Mersin, has been inaugurated by President Erdogan. The airport, with a capacity to serve 9 million passengers annually, is expected to become a key driver for economic development in the Mediterranean region.
President Erdogan’s remarks
- Impact on trade and tourism: Erdogan highlighted the airport’s world-class standards, emphasizing its potential to enhance trade, tourism, and regional production.
This project will play a significant role in the development of the Mediterranean
President Recep Tayyip Erdogan
- Criticism of the opposition: Erdogan also criticized the opposition for attempting to undermine such investments, accusing them of “political jealousy.” He remarked, “They have no substantial contributions to our country’s infrastructure. There’s no tree they’ve planted in this country. Their only focus is to oppose our services and projects.”
Employment and economic impact
- Job creation: The Cukurova International Airport is expected to create 3,000 jobs, directly benefiting the local economy.
- Major infrastructure: The airport is constructed on an 800-hectare site in Tarsus, featuring a 110,000-square-meter terminal, a 217,000-square-meter apron capable of handling 48 aircraft, and specialized areas including a 62,000-square-meter cargo apron for 4 aircraft and a 56,000-square-meter general aviation apron for 34 aircraft.
- Long-term financial gains: Built under the build-operate-transfer model with an investment of approximately €244.5 million, the airport is projected to generate €297.1 million in rental income over 25 years. It’s anticipated to double the region’s cargo traffic, establishing itself as Türkiye’s second-largest cargo hub.
Airport investments boom in Türkiye
During the ruling AK Party’s tenure, Türkiye has seen a significant expansion in airport infrastructure:
- Regional developments: The newly opened airports, such as Amasya Merzifon (2008), Gazipasa-Alanya (2009), and Zafer (2012), have boosted tourism and commerce in their respective regions.
- Unique projects: Türkiye has also pioneered in constructing offshore airports like Ordu-Giresun (2015) and Rize-Artvin (2022), the latter being the country’s second airport built over the sea, further demonstrating the government’s commitment to enhancing regional connectivity.
