How to Connect to WiFi at Istanbul Airport (IST): A Quick Guide

Rachel Tran

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Published: September 2024

Connecting to WiFi at Istanbul Airport (IST) is easy, but only free for the first hour. Afterward, passengers must pay for additional time.

Istanbul airport (IST), a major international hub in Turkey, welcomes millions of travelers each year. If you arrive at Istanbul airport, staying connected to the Internet is essential for navigating the airport, arranging transportation, and staying in touch.

Whether you are on a short layover or starting a longer trip, this article will provide you with a quick and easy guide on how to connect to WiFi at Istanbul Airport (IST) and suggest some other connectivity options, ensuring you can access the Internet easily and affordably.

I. Is there FREE WiFi at Istanbul airport?

Yes, Istanbul Airport offers passenger one hour of free WiFi access from the Turkish Telecommunication kiosks.

You can find these kiosks throughout Istanbul airport’s terminals, from arrival and departure halls, waiting areas, and most restaurants and cafes. However, remember that after one free initial hour, you have to pay supplementary fees.

If you have some trouble connecting, get help from Turk mobile Telekom staff at the customer service desk. In addition, you can also contact Hotline 4440145 for additional support.

How fast is Wireless Internet at Istanbul Airport?

While generally reliable, Istanbul Airport’s WiFi speeds can vary depending on the number of users connected.

You should expect decent speeds for browsing, checking emails, and using social media. However, large downloads or streaming may be slower.

Now, learn how to connect to the WiFi kiosks at Istanbul Airport.

II. Istanbul Airport WiFi price

It is FREE if you use WiFi at Istanbul Airport in less than 1 hour.

After 1 hour, you will need to use paid WiFi (we will discuss more about this in the next section) or if you still want to get free unlimited WiFi, you can connect to the iGA Lounge network, even without entering the lounge itself.

This method involves receiving a new access code via your mobile number every 60 minutes, effectively granting you unlimited usage.

III. How many spots offer free WiFi at Istanbul Airport?

You can find many designated spots offering free WiFi at Istanbul International Airport:

• 3 near the C-E doors
• 12 at Bosphorus
• 1 on the domestic departures floor
• 6 on the departures level
• 6 on the transfer level
• 2 in the iGA Lounge
• 3 in the arrivals halls
• 1 in the International baggage claim area

IV. How to connect free WiFi at Istanbul airport

Istanbul airports provides WiFi connection through Turk Telekom’s wireless internet kiosks. You need to choose one of the WiFi kiosks throughout the airport to start connecting to WiFi there.

You can connect from different devices like smartphones, tablets, laptops, and more.

There are 02 ways to connect to Istanbul Airport WiFi: Login with your passport number and login with your phone number.

1. Login with your passport number

• Find one of the Turk Telecom WiFi kiosks located throughout the airport
• Follow the on-screen instructions and enter your passport details for verification.
• After verified, you will receive a unique access code. Take note of this code to use as your access password.
• On your device, find the network named “IstanbulAirportTurkTelecomFree” and select it
• Select the “Passport login” option and enter your passport number along with the access code that you received.
• Accept the terms and conditions and start connecting to the Internet.

2. Login with your phone number (SMS)

• Find a Turk Telecom WiFi kiosk and choose the “Mobile Access” option
• Choose your country’s flag and enter your phone number (no need to enter country code)
• Accept the terms and conditions and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process
• You then will receive an SMS message with a verification code. Enter this code on the kiosk screen.
• There you will be connected to the WiFi network.

V. Paid Internet Options at Istanbul airport

While free WiFi is readily available, Istanbul Airport also provides other paid internet services for travelers:

1. In-flight WiFi

Some Turkish airlines offer in-flight connectivity services, allowing you to stay connected even at cruising altitude.

To get more details about availability, pricing, and data packages, it is advised to check directly with your airline or visit their official website. Keep in mind that in-flight WiFi is often a paid service and will probably be offered on specific routes or to certain cabin classes.

2. Istanbul Airport Lounge WiFi

If you are a departing or transit passenger seeking to stay connected while at Istanbul Airport for more than one hour, consider accessing one of the airport’s many lounges. Istanbul Airport offers a wide range of lounges for passengers to enjoy, including:

• iGA Lounges: including International Lounge and Domestic Lounge,
• SkyTeam Lounge
• Turkish Airlines Lounges: encompassing several lounges, including Turkish Airlines Business Lounges, Turkish Airlines Miles & Smiles Lounge, and Turkish Airlines Domestic Lounge.
• Other lounges: such as HSBC Premier Lounge, the IS Bank Lounge, the CardFinans Lounge, and more.

Passengers can expect to get WiFi in these lounges as a standard amenity for airport lounges. While most lounges offer complimentary WiFi, ideal for watching TV or casual browsing, some may provide premium high-speed WiFi for an extra fee, catering to those seeking a more exclusive experience.

► See details about services in lounges at Istanbul Airport.

How long can a passenger use WiFi in an Istanbul airport lounge?

Lounge access is typically granted for a specific timeframe, often around 4 hours. This timeframe usually applies to both the lounge facilities and the included WiFi. However, access can often be extended for a fee or through pre-booking.

How to connect to free WiFi in the Istanbul Airport Lounge?

You can connect to the airport lounge WiFi in 06 steps:

1. In the Instanbul Airport Lounge, find the WiFi access kiosk on the right side, near the duty-free shop.
2. Get your passport swiped through the side of the kiosk.
3. On your device, choose the on-screen “4 hours free” button to get your password.
4. Select “connect with password from kiosk” and enter your password and your passport number.
5. Check the first box and tap “Continue”
6. Start enjoying the Internet during your waiting period.

How much does it cost to use WiFi in an Istanbul Airport lounge?

Most Istanbul airport lounges offer free WiFi including the lounge access fee.

However, the specific cost of accessing this WiFi depends on the lounge and its access policies.

For example, if you want to use the iGA lounges, access is grated for a fee, which includes WiFi access.

Here are the rates for iGA lounges as of 2024:

• Adults (12 years and older): €85 (~$100) + VAT
• Children (7 to 12 years): €42.50 (~$50) + VAT
• Infants (0 to 6 years): Free

While free WiFi at Istanbul airport is available, tourists who are going to travel further in the country, venturing into different destinations in Turkey, may need more than airport WiFi. That is when they need to find alternative internet solutions.

VI. 4 Alternative internet options to Free WiFi at Istanbul Airport

Besides airport WiFi, travelers to Istanbul Airport can also use other internet options to stay connected during their trip both at the airport and in Istanbul city:

1. International Turkey eSIM

eSIM is a convenient connectivity option that eliminates the hassle of inserting a SIM card. It is 100% digital, can be bought online, installed through scanning a QR code, and get online the moment you land at Istanbul airport. Using an eSIM, you can retain your primary phone number as usual. Just option allows you to stay connect for more than one hour, unlike free airport WiFi.

When purchasing an eSIM for Turkey, choose eSIM plans from a reputable eSIM provider like Gigago, which offers a variety of plans, comprehensive customer services, and does not require any personal identification documents.

Note: To use Turkey eSIM, your phone needs to be carrier-unlocked and eSIM-compatible.

2. Prepaid SIM cards

Prepaid Turkey SIM cards are offered by major Turkish mobile carriers (Vodafone Turkey, Turkcell, Turk Telecom). However, if you buy a Turkey airport SIM card, be prepared for language barriers, higher prices due to airport fees, and complicated procedures with passport registration.

Here is a quick overview of Turkey SIM plans for major carriers:

• Turkcell: “Welcome Plan” with 20GB of data, 200 minutes, unlimited SMS, and unlimited WhatsApp, used in 30 days.
• Turk Telecom: plans starting at 110 TL (about $3.73) with options for cellular data, local minutes, and social media access, used in 28 days.
• Vodafone Turkey: Plans with various data allowances (from 20GB to 70GB), 750 local minutes, and unlimited social media use (including Telegram, WhatsApp, and Messenger).

Note: To use Turkey prepaid SIM cards, your phone needs to be carrier-unlocked to receive signals from Turkish networks.

3. International roaming

Roaming with your home country’s SIM card in Turkey is easy, but it often comes with expensive roaming charges. You had better check with your provider for rates, but it is often the priciest option.

4. Pocket WiFi Istanbul

Pocket Wifi devices, also known as portable hotspots, are a convenient connectivity option for tourists who need to connect multiple devices or prefer their own secure Wireless network.

You can rent pocket WiFi devices for Turkey Istanbul like Rentnconnect, Soowifi, Traveldir, etc. This option has some advantages over using free airport WiFi like shareable connection, secure network, and convenient pickup and return. However, there are also drawbacks like limited battery life, potential for damage or loss, and added up daily rental fees.

For most tourists, a Turkish eSIM offers the best combination of convenience, affordability and flexibility.

VII. FAQs