On April 17, 2025, Istanbul Airport (IST) conducted a triple independent take-off, the first time this feat has been achieved in Europe.
It was undertaken by three Turkish Airlines aircraft which departed Istanbul at the exact same time, using each one of the three parallel runways.
Only a handful of airports in the world are capable of handling triple independent operations, although not all of them use this capability on a regular basis. Most of these airports in question are in either the US or East Asia. The list includes the world’s busiest airport, Atlanta-Hartsfield (ATL), as well as Hong Kong International Airport (HKG), which started simultaneous triple runway operations in November 2024.
“This is not merely a technical achievement for us, but also a strategic milestone. The Triple Independent Runway Operation we are launching today stands as one of the most critical cornerstones of this ecosystem.” stated iGA Istanbul Airport Board Member Mehmet Kalyoncu in the press release announcing the successful conclusion of the operation.
The implementation of triple independent operations will increase hourly air traffic at Istanbul Airport from 120 to 148 aircraft movements, enhancing its growth potential and aiding it to consolidate as a global hub.
It will also assist in shortening taxi times, thereby helping to reduce delays and carbon emissions.
