Hello! Flying from ATH with Turkish Airlines ATH Terminal was an excellent experience. The terminal itself was well kept and new, so checking in was a breeze. The staff was helpful and quick, and the lounge was quiet and relaxing before my flight. Security was efficient, and I had no issue getting to my gate. Boarding was smooth, and the flight itself was comfortable. Turkish Airlines consistently provides great service, and my flight from Athens was no exception. Highly recommend!

Introduction

Turkish Airlines, Turkey’s national flag carrier and a leading global airline, operates flights to and from Athens International Airport (ATH), officially known as Eleftherios Venizelos Airport. As one of Europe’s busiest hubs, ATH plays a crucial role in facilitating Turkish Airlines’ connectivity between Greece and major global destinations. This document provides an in-depth overview of Turkish Airlines’ operations at ATH, covering terminal details, check-in procedures, passenger amenities, lounges, and more.

Terminal Information

Turkish Airlines operates from the Main Terminal at Athens International Airport. ATH has two primary terminals: the Main Terminal and the Satellite Terminal. The Main Terminal handles the majority of international and domestic flights, making it the primary facility for Turkish Airlines operations.

Passengers arriving or departing with Turkish Airlines will use the Main Terminal’s Schengen or Non-Schengen areas, depending on their final destination. Flights to and from Turkey typically operate from the Non-Schengen section of the terminal, which is dedicated to international flights outside the Schengen zone.

Check-in and Baggage Drop-off

Turkish Airlines offers multiple options for check-in at Athens International Airport:

1. Online Check-in: Passengers can check in online via the Turkish Airlines website or mobile app up to 24 hours before departure.

2. Airport Check-in Counters: Turkish Airlines check-in counters are located in the Main Terminal’s departure area. It is recommended that passengers arrive at least three hours before international flights to allow sufficient time for security clearance and boarding.

3. Self-Service Kiosks: ATH features self-service kiosks where passengers can print boarding passes and baggage tags before proceeding to the baggage drop-off counters.

Security and Immigration Procedures

After check-in, passengers flying with Turkish Airlines will proceed to security screening and immigration control. Since Turkey is outside the Schengen zone, travelers will need to clear passport control both upon departure from ATH and upon arrival in Turkey.

Turkish Airlines Lounge at ATH

Turkish Airlines offers access to the Goldair Handling CIP Lounge, located in the Non-Schengen area of the Main Terminal. This lounge provides premium services for business class passengers and elite members of the Miles&Smiles loyalty program. Amenities include:

1. Comfortable seating areas

2. Complimentary food and beverages

3. Free Wi-Fi

4. Business center with workstations

5. Shower facilities

Passengers can also access other airport lounges at ATH through Priority Pass or similar programs.

Boarding Gates and Procedures

Turkish Airlines flights typically depart from the Non-Schengen gates located in the Main Terminal’s international departures area. Passengers should check their boarding passes and monitor flight information screens to confirm their assigned gate.

Boarding usually begins 45 minutes before departure, with priority given to business class travelers, Miles&Smiles elite members, and families with young children. Passengers should ensure they arrive at the gate in advance, as gates close approximately 15 minutes before takeoff.

Arrivals and Baggage Claim

Upon arrival at ATH, Turkish Airlines passengers will proceed through passport control (for international arrivals) and then collect their baggage from the designated carousel in the Main Terminal. The airport offers baggage services, including lost-and-found assistance, in case of any luggage-related issues.

Turkish Airlines Routes from Athens International Airport

Turkish Airlines operates multiple daily flights between ATH and Istanbul Airport (IST), one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs. These flights offer seamless connections to Turkish Airlines’ extensive global network, which includes destinations in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

The frequency of flights between ATH and IST makes Turkish Airlines a popular choice for passengers traveling from Greece to international destinations. Seasonal increases in flights may occur during peak travel periods.

Customer Service and Support

Turkish Airlines provides comprehensive customer service at ATH, including:

1. Ticketing and reservations counter in the departure area

2. 24/7 customer support via the Turkish Airlines website and call centers

3. Baggage assistance desk for lost or delayed luggage inquiries

Ground Transportation and Connectivity

Athens International Airport is well-connected to the city center and surrounding areas through various transportation options:

1. Metro Line 3: The airport metro connects ATH to downtown Athens in approximately 40 minutes.

2. Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Available outside the terminal, with fixed fares to central Athens.

3. Airport Buses: Several bus lines operate between ATH and key city locations, including Syntagma Square and Piraeus Port.

4. Car Rentals: Multiple car rental agencies operate at the airport for passengers needing private transport options.

Conclusion

Turkish Airlines’ operations at Athens International Airport provide travelers with convenient access to Istanbul and beyond. With a well-equipped terminal, smooth check-in procedures, premium lounge access, and efficient ground transportation, passengers flying Turkish Airlines from ATH can enjoy a seamless travel experience. Whether connecting through Istanbul or heading to a final destination, Turkish Airlines remains a reliable choice for travelers seeking comfort, quality service, and extensive route options.