Elazığ Airport
Elazig Airport (EZS) Travel Guide
Your gateway to Eastern Anatolia: a practical guide to Elazig Airport (EZS) with information on transport, car rental, weather and terminal services.
General Information About Elazig Airport
Elazig Airport (IATA: EZS, ICAO: LTCA) serves the city of Elazig in Eastern Anatolia and handles both domestic and international flights. First opened to air traffic in 1940, it is one of the oldest airports in Turkey still in operation and today functions as a modern regional hub with a renewed runway and passenger terminal.
The airport is located on the Elazig–Diyarbakir highway, approximately 11–12 km from Elazig city centre. Depending on traffic conditions, the journey between the airport and downtown usually takes around 10–15 minutes by road.
Key Facts
- Location: Elazig–Diyarbakir Highway, Elazig, Turkey
- Distance to city centre: About 11–12 km
- Airport type: Civil / Military (joint use)
- Annual passenger volume: Around 1 million passengers
- Operator: State Airports Authority (DHMI)
Airlines and Routes
Elazig Airport offers regular flights to major Turkish cities, especially Istanbul and Ankara. Airlines such as Pegasus Airlines, Turkish Airlines, SunExpress and AJet operate flights to and from Elazig.
- Direct flights to Istanbul (IST, SAW)
- Connections to Ankara and other domestic destinations
- Seasonal and charter international flights
Transportation to and from Elazig Airport
Thanks to its relatively short distance to the city centre, getting to and from Elazig Airport is simple and convenient. Travellers can choose between airport shuttle buses, public buses (when available), taxis and private transfers.
Airport Shuttle Buses and Public Transport
Shuttle services coordinated with flight schedules depart from outside the terminal building and run to key stops in Elazig city centre. Most shuttles leave shortly after flight arrivals and the journey usually takes around 25–30 minutes.
- Services adapted to arrival and departure times
- Direct links to central points in Elazig
- Generally more affordable than taxis or private transfers
Depending on the period, municipal or private bus lines may also connect the airport with the city centre. It is advisable to check current routes and timetables before your trip.
Taxi Services at Elazig Airport
24/7 taxi services are available at the terminal exit and are particularly convenient for travellers with heavy luggage or late-night arrivals. Given the distance of around 11 km, the taxi ride between the airport and the city centre typically takes 10–15 minutes.
- Fast and comfortable transfer to your hotel
- Available around the clock
- Ideal for business travellers and families
Private Transfers and Hotel Shuttles
For those seeking extra comfort or travelling in groups, private transfer services are an excellent option. Some hotels in Elazig offer airport–hotel transfers for their guests at an additional charge. Transfer companies also operate routes from Elazig Airport to nearby cities such as Bingol, Tunceli and Malatya.
Car Rental at Elazig Airport
If you plan to explore Eastern Anatolia at your own pace, renting a car at Elazig Airport is highly recommended. Inside the terminal and in the immediate vicinity, you will find several international and local car rental companies.
Main Rental Companies
- International brands
- Nationwide Turkish rental companies
- Local Elazig-based car hire offices
Things to Check Before You Rent
- Compare prices and make an early reservation
- Review insurance coverage and collision damage waiver carefully
- Clarify the fuel policy (full–full, full–empty, etc.)
- Check the terms for additional or young drivers
- Inspect the vehicle on pick-up and note all existing damage in the contract
With a rental car you can easily visit popular attractions around Elazig, such as Harput, Lake Hazar, Keban Dam and nearby towns. Having your own vehicle gives you maximum flexibility and allows you to create a tailor-made itinerary.
Weather at Elazig Airport and Best Time to Travel
Elazig has a continental climate with hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. As a result, weather conditions such as fog, snow and ice may occasionally affect flight operations at Elazig Airport, especially during the winter months.
- Spring (April–May): Mild temperatures and blossoming nature make this a pleasant time to visit.
- Summer (June–August): Temperatures can get quite high, but Lake Hazar and highland areas nearby offer cooler escapes.
- Autumn (September–October): Generally stable weather and beautiful colours – ideal for sightseeing and road trips.
- Winter (December–March): Cold and snowy; always check the weather forecast and flight status before travelling.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always consult the official website of the State Airports Authority (DHMI) and your chosen airline for real-time weather updates and flight status at Elazig Airport.
Terminal Facilities and Passenger Services
Elazig Airport features a modern terminal building that provides all essential services for passengers. The layout is compact yet functional, ensuring smooth passenger flow even during busy hours.
- Domestic and international arrival and departure halls
- Cafés, snack bars and basic food & beverage outlets
- Duty free and gift shops on the international side
- ATMs and limited currency services
- Information desk and lost & found office
- Baby-care rooms and facilities for passengers with reduced mobility
Practical Travel Tips for Flying to Elazig
- Book early: Keep an eye on early-bird deals from Istanbul and Ankara to Elazig to secure better fares.
- Choose the right transfer: Shuttle buses are budget-friendly for solo travellers, while taxis and private transfers are ideal for families and business trips.
- Plan your stay: In addition to city-centre hotels, you will find charming accommodation options around Harput and Lake Hazar.
- Rent a car for flexibility: A 2–3 day car rental allows you to comfortably explore attractions across Elazig and neighbouring provinces.
- Consider the season: In winter, account for possible delays due to snow or fog when planning connecting flights.
- Elazığ Airport