Istanbul Airport to boost capacity with Europe’s 1st simultaneous triple runways

Istanbul Airport (SAW), already Europe’s second-busiest hub by passenger volume, is set to begin simultaneous triple independent runway operations starting Thursday. The move will make Türkiye the first country in Europe to implement this advanced aviation system, which allows three aircraft to take off and land at the same time on separate runways. The new system is expected to enhance the airport’s efficiency significantly, reducing waiting times and increasing traffic flow and operational capacity. While similar systems are already in use in the United States, Türkiye will be the first European country to implement such operations. Transport and Infrastructure Minister Abdulkadir Uraloglu emphasized that the initiative would optimize the use of the airport’s runways. “With this system, three aircraft will be able to land and three others take off simultaneously,” he said. He added that the enhanced runway capability will accelerate air traffic flow and boost the airport’s dynamic capacity, strengthening Istanbul Airport’s position as a key hub in Europe.<br/>