Istanbul Airport Safety: Is It Secure Now?

Istanbul Airport is considered one of the safest airports in the world, with travellers going through multiple security checks. The airport has a strong security presence, with 13 special teams and 2,000 police officers on duty, in addition to around 5,150 private security officers. However, some travellers have reported incidents of theft and unprofessional behaviour by customs officers. There have also been reports of overpriced food and other amenities, as well as negative experiences with staff.

Istanbul Airport is one of the safest in the world

The airport also has a "Special Team" that responds to emergency situations. This team consists of 82 police officers and a commissioner who have been trained for 12 days in the use of OC sprayers, police intervention, and the use of effective force. In addition, there are approximately 2,000 police officers and 5,150 private security officers throughout the airport, ensuring that the airport is always safe. As a result of their efforts, there have been over 1,350 incidents in the airport's police responsibility area, leading to the capture of approximately 2,150 wanted persons.

Istanbul Airport's focus on security and the presence of well-trained security personnel make it one of the safest airports in the world. Travellers can feel confident in the extensive measures taken to ensure their safety.

The airport has many security checks

Istanbul Airport is known for its many security checks. A traveller passing through Istanbul Airport can expect to go through multiple security checks. In fact, one traveller reported going through seven security checks before boarding their flight.

The first security check occurs upon entering the terminal, where you will go through a scanner and put your bags on a belt. The second check takes place when you get your boarding pass. Here, security personnel will examine your passport. The third check is standard procedure, where the counter agent checks your passport and takes your checked bags. The fourth check is another standard procedure, passport control. The fifth check is the same as that conducted at every airport, where you put your carry-ons through an x-ray machine. The sixth check takes place while boarding the flight, where your passport and boarding pass are scrutinised once more. The seventh and final check is the most intrusive, with a thorough pat-down and inspection of all carry-on bags.

Istanbul Airport also has a strong security presence, with approximately 2,000 police officers and 5,150 private security officers on duty. The airport has implemented an "Emergency Response Team" to prevent emergencies and bad situations. The "Special Team" was created by the Istanbul Police Chief to respond to emergency situations, with 82 police officers and 1 commissioner trained for 12 days on topics such as OC sprayer use and police intervention.

There are around 5,150 private security officers at the airport

Istanbul Airport is considered one of the most secure airports in the world. The airport's security measures include multiple checkpoints, with passengers undergoing several security checks before boarding their flights. These checks involve bag scans, pat-downs, and passport examinations.

The presence of a robust security apparatus at Istanbul Airport is further emphasised by the significant number of security personnel. Notably, there are around 5,150 private security officers stationed throughout the airport. This large security force complements the work of the Istanbul Airport Branch Directorate, which consists of approximately 2,000 police officers organised into 13 units.

The extensive security personnel at Istanbul Airport undergo specialised training to ensure the safety of passengers and visitors. This training encompasses Civil Aviation Basic Training, Border Gates Basic Training, Travel Document Counterfeiting Expertise Training, Behaviour Analysis Training, and Emergency Response Training. Additionally, they receive social training to enhance their interactions with the public.

The establishment of the "Special Team" and the "Emergency Response Team" further bolsters the airport's security capabilities, enabling them to effectively handle emergency situations.

The combination of rigorous security checks, a substantial security force, and specialised training contributes to the perception of Istanbul Airport as a safe and secure aviation hub.

Turkish Airlines is considered safe

Turkish Airlines is considered one of the safest airlines in the world. It has an impressive safety record, ranking 16th on Forbes' list of the top 25 airlines. Aviation safety organisations such as AirlineRatings.com give the airline high marks for its safety rating, reflecting the airline's commitment to operational and passenger safety. The airline has also invested in advanced flight safety protocols and aircraft safety measures, including the latest Boeing and Airbus models equipped with modern emergency systems, redundant avionics, and fail-safe technologies.

The airline has a good track record when it comes to security and safety. It has stringent security measures in place, with multiple security checks at the Istanbul International Airport (IST), ensuring that passengers feel safe and secure throughout their journey. These security checks include passport examinations, boarding pass checks, and thorough pat-downs, ensuring that all passengers and their belongings are properly screened before boarding.

In addition to its focus on safety, Turkish Airlines also prioritises customer satisfaction. The airline has been rated as one of the best in Europe for eight consecutive years, offering amenities such as a business-class lounge, comfortable seats, and a wide selection of in-flight entertainment. The food served on board has also received positive reviews, with some considering it to be "amazing".

While there have been some negative comments about the high prices at the Istanbul International Airport and the attitude of certain staff members, the safety and security measures implemented by Turkish Airlines and the airport itself are generally regarded as thorough and efficient.

Overall, Turkish Airlines is considered a safe and reliable choice for air travel, with a strong commitment to ensuring the security and well-being of its passengers.

The airport is expensive

Istanbul Airport is considered one of the safest airports in the world, with stringent security measures in place. However, it has also gained a reputation for being extremely expensive.

One of the most prominent complaints about the airport is the high cost of food and beverages. Many travellers have expressed outrage at the exorbitant prices, with a Big Mac combo costing around 40 Australian dollars, a bottle of water priced at 100 lira, and a cappuccino costing 7.50 euros. The prices are significantly higher than those at other large transit airports, and some travellers have even vowed never to return to Turkey because of this.

In addition to food and drinks, other services and products at the airport are also reportedly overpriced. For example, accessing the internet beyond the first free hour can be very expensive. Using a trolley in transit is also a costly affair, and some travellers have mentioned feeling scammed by the additional expenses.

The high prices at Istanbul Airport are not limited to food and services. The shopping options, including designer brands like Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Hermes, are also priced whimsically. While Duty-Free shopping is available, the items are not affordable for most travellers.

Overall, while Istanbul Airport boasts impressive safety measures and infrastructure, its reputation for excessive prices may deter some travellers. The cost of essential services and products is significantly higher than at other comparable airports, leading to a negative perception of the airport's value for money.

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