May 31, 2025
Flying with Pets Through Istanbul Airport
Flying with Pets Through Istanbul Airport: What You Need to Know
If you’re from a country where seeing pets at airports—let alone sitting beside you on a flight—is a rarity, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how incredibly pet-friendly Istanbul Airport (IST) is. I had the opportunity to experience it firsthand while flying both domestically from Istanbul to Dalaman and internationally to Abu Dhabi, and I was genuinely impressed by the excellent facilities available in both terminals. Istanbul has two main airports. Istanbul Airport (IST) is the largest and newest airport, opened in 2018. It serves as a major international hub and is one of the busiest airports in the world. Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) is located on the Asian side of Istanbul and primarily handles domestic flights but also serves a significant number of international flights, especially to European destinations. In this post, however we are focussing on Istanbul Airport (IST).
You can find out more information by visiting Turkish Airlines’ FAQs about travelling with pets.
Istanbul International Airport (IST):
Istanbul Airport serves as a hub for Turkish Airlines, which offers direct flights to more destinations than any other airline in the world. This makes IST a key connecting point for travellers between Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. It has direct flights to over 300 destinations worldwide, and that number is expected to grow as the airport expands.
What I particularly loved seeing at this airport was the Turkish Airlines’ pet-friendly check-in desk making it easier for people travelling with pets. Let’s take a closer look at the facilities provided and where they are located in the airport.
Where to find the Pet Relief Rooms
The Pet Relief Room can be found after you exit passport control. Turn left and head towards Gates A to C. Look out for Yotelair on your left and take the elevator upstairs one level and you’ll see IGA Lounge on your right at top of escalator, but for the Pet Relief Room head left in the opposite direction, towards the Airport Museum. Fortunately, it’s well sign posted so you can’t miss it. There is also another Pet Relief Room next to the toilet by Gates D 1-17
What you’ll find inside Pet Relief Rooms
The Pet Relief Rooms are designed with both pet and owner comfort in mind. The spaces are spacious, clean, and have a dedicated area for pets to relieve themselves. The rooms are typically equipped with artificial grass, pet kibble, water, free waste bags and disposal bins available to ensure cleanliness.
Ideal for All Pets: The rooms cater to various types of pets – whether it’s a cat, dog, or small animal. They offer a calm and stress-free environment for pets that may be feeling the strain of travel or simply need a quick break.
Istanbul Domestic Airport (IST)
The Domestic Terminal also features a spacious pet relief area equipped with similar features as the international terminal, ideal for a quick stop before your flight. However, I found this one harder to find despite the airport being smaller. Located near the pharmacy, I used another useful feature at the airport – an interactive information station, where you can speak to someone virtually to help you find what you are looking for.
Tips for Flying with Pets through Istanbul Airport
- Arrive early to allow time for pet check-in and relief breaks.
- Prepare for your pet’s comfort during the flight (e.g., bringing snacks or familiar blankets).
- Know where the nearest pet care services are located at the airport.
Navigating a busy international hub like Istanbul Airport with your pet can be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time flying together. From managing check-in to ensuring your pet’s comfort during transit, preparation is key. You can read more in our guide to keeping your dog safe while flying here.
Comparison to Other Airports
Compared to pet policies at airports in other major cities (e.g., London, Dubai, Sydney), Istanbul is a clear standout. While many airports around the world have strict or limited regulations regarding pets, Istanbul’s airports are known for their more relaxed and pet-friendly approach. Passengers can expect well-designed pet relief areas, and comprehensive services for travelling with pets. Additionally, Istanbul’s airports allow pets in certain terminal areas, making the experience smoother for travellers with pets. This stands in contrast to other airports where there are more restrictions and fewer amenities overall. The thoughtful infrastructure and services available in Istanbul reflect a growing trend in the city’s commitment to improving the travel experience for pet owners, and I hope that others can follow suit.
More International Pet Travel Tips
If you’re planning to travel through other airports with your pet, it’s worth checking out Dogs on Planes’ comprehensive airport guide. This site provides up-to-date details on pet relief areas and amenities for pet travellers at major international and U.S. airports. It’s a fantastic resource for ensuring a smooth journey—especially if you’re navigating multiple stopovers or want to compare facilities across airports.
Considering Your Dog’s Breed Before Flying
If you’re traveling with a brachycephalic (short-nosed) dog such as a French Bulldog, Pug, or Boxer, it’s crucial to understand the additional risks associated with air travel. These breeds are more susceptible to respiratory issues and heatstroke during flights. For detailed information on which dog breeds are at higher risk when flying, refer to our comprehensive guide here.
Conclusion
Whether you’re flying domestically to Dalaman or heading further afield, Istanbul Airport’s exceptional pet facilities ensure a stress-free journey for both you and your furry companion.
Have you travelled through Istanbul with your pet? We’d love to hear from you!
Read next: 7 Pet-Friendly International Airports
Author Bio: Carla Francis is an Australian author, pet travel expert, and feline psychology writer. She is the author of The Zen of Cat, The Cat with Three Passports, and Travelling with Pets (7th edition). Her work has been published in multiple languages and featured in various international media outlets.