Why are Istanbul and Sabiha Gokcen Airports so expensive?

Istanbul Airport and Sabiha Gokcen Airport are Türkiye’s main aviation hubs, together providing services to over 120 million in 2024 to destinations across the globe.

While they serve as critical transit points, these airports have also gained a reputation for being among the most expensive in the world. Travelers, including tourists, expatriates, and locals, frequently voice their frustrations over high food, beverage, and service costs.

Istanbul Airport: Leading the world in expense

A report by Corriere della Sera declared Istanbul Airport the most expensive in the world, based on an analysis of 17 major European airports.

The study examined the costs of essential food and beverages, and Istanbul Airport consistently ranked at the top for its exorbitant prices.

Key price examples include:

• A 500 ml bottle of Evian water: $6.50, compared to $6.40 in Berlin and $4.90 in London Luton
• An espresso: $6.50; a cappuccino: $9.80.
• A croissant and sandwich combo: $17.90.

The high prices have sparked significant backlash on social media, with many travelers criticizing what they perceive as opportunistic practices.

Responding to the criticism in January 2025, Istanbul Grand Airport (IGA) defended its pricing strategy, emphasizing that the airport benchmarks its prices against major international hubs such as Amsterdam, Dubai, and Heathrow.

The IGA also expressed efforts to cater to diverse budgets by offering options like vending machines, free water stations, and affordable food items.

Saadettin Cesur, CEO of the airport’s food and beverage operator, explained:

Our pricing reflects the operational challenges of running a world-class hub. We provide alternatives for every budget, from premium restaurants to vending machines.

Regular audits, he noted, ensure that pricing remains competitive and transparent.

Sabiha Gokcen Airport: A different story, similar complaints

Sabiha Gokcen Airport, Istanbul’s secondary hub, has faced its own share of criticism.

• Viral social media posts, such as one highlighting a receipt of $92 (₺2,500) for a meal including borek, ayran, tea, and water in April 2024, have fueled outrage.
• The high prices, compared to local markets, were labeled “excessive even by airport standards.”

Alp Er Tunga Ersoy, CEO of Sabiha Gokcen Airport, addressed these concerns, noting that when converted to euros or dollars, the prices are competitive with European airports. For example, he cited vending machines that offer basic items like water and coffee at lower prices.

Our goal is to balance operational costs with passenger affordability.

Ersoy stated

In 2024, Sabiha Gokcen Airport announced a $36 million investment in 24 projects aimed at improving passenger experience, including expanded terminals, new X-ray machines, and renovated facilities, with work ongoing throughout the year.

Ersoy emphasized that these developments necessitate higher operating expenses but ultimately enhance the airport’s quality.

Why are airport prices in Istanbul, Türkiye so high?

The steep costs at Istanbul and Sabiha Gokcen Airports can be attributed to several factors:

1. Operational expenses:
   • Food and beverages undergo stringent security and customs checks, increasing logistics costs
   • Istanbul and Sabiha Gokcen Airports charge high rents for retail spaces, a cost passed on to consumers
2. Inflation in Türkiye:
   • The country’s inflationary environment has significantly raised prices for goods and services across industries, including aviation
3. Global pricing standards:
   • Both airports align their pricing with international benchmarks. For instance, vending machine water at Istanbul Airport costs $2.20, similar to Dubai’s $2.70
   • Premium sandwiches start at $10.30 but can reach $17.90 in premium outlets
4. Infrastructure investments:
   • Istanbul and Sabiha Gokcen Airports have undertaken massive expansions. Istanbul Airport’s construction cost over $10,2 billion, ranking it among the world’s most expensive airports to build. Sabiha Gokcen’s ongoing upgrades, including new terminals and expanded facilities, add to operational expenses.

Comparing Istanbul’s airports with global counterparts

When compared to other major international airports, Istanbul Airport’s prices remain high:

• Water:
  • Istanbul: $6.50
  • Heathrow: $4.60
  • Copenhagen: $4.90
  • Dubai: $2.70
• Sandwiches:
  • Istanbul: $17.90
  • Amsterdam: $10.30
  • Frankfurt: $8.80
  • Dubai: $15.20

While these comparisons underline Istanbul Airport’s premium pricing, the airports defend their practices by highlighting the quality and range of services offered.

Tips for those traveling to Istanbul and Sabiha Gokcen Airports

For passengers concerned about high prices, there are practical strategies to mitigate costs:

• Pack snacks and an empty water bottle: Many airports, including Istanbul, offer free water stations for refilling bottles
• Use vending machines: Affordable options like $2.20 water and budget sandwiches are available
• Plan ahead: Familiarize yourself with airport facilities and food outlets to make cost-effective choices.

Looking ahead, both airports have ambitious plans. Sabiha Gokcen aims to expand its capacity to 80 million passengers annually, with new terminals and improved infrastructure.

Istanbul Airport continues to position itself as a global leader, leveraging its premium services and strategic location.