Istanbul Airport has been crowned the ‘most punctual airport’ of 2025, a prestigious accolade granted by the aviation analytics firm Cirium. The airport received the coveted Platinum Award in Cirium’s ‘On-Time Performance Review’ report, which assessed 38.9 million flights globally throughout the year.
Operational Excellence Recognized
Cirium’s report highlighted institutions that demonstrated operational excellence despite challenges such as staff shortages, adverse weather conditions, and geopolitical restrictions. Istanbul Airport’s performance stood out, earning it the top honor.
The firm emphasized that Istanbul Airport has evolved into a significant hub, serving over 84 million passengers and connecting to 330 destinations worldwide. This remarkable growth and operational efficiency were key factors in its recognition.
Triple Independent Runway Operations Boost Capacity
A significant milestone mentioned in the report was Istanbul Airport’s initiation of triple independent runway operations in April 2025, a first for Europe. This strategic move increased the airport’s capacity from 120 to 148 movements per hour, showcasing its commitment to enhancing efficiency and handling increased air traffic.
Cirium further underscored Istanbul Airport’s ability to manage its considerable size and operational complexity with remarkable stability, a testament to its robust infrastructure and management. This award solidifies Istanbul Airport’s position as a leading global aviation facility.
The recognition comes at a time when the Turkish economy is navigating various challenges, including central government debt and inflation, as reported by [hurriyetdailynews.com](https://www.hurriyetdailynews.com/central-government-debt-stock-totals-294-billion-in-july-212750) and [dailysabah.com](https://www.dailysabah.com/business/economy/turkiye-strengthens-institutional-capacity-to-counter-informal-economy). Despite these broader economic contexts, the aviation sector, particularly Istanbul Airport, continues to demonstrate strong performance and contribute significantly to the country’s infrastructure and global connectivity.
