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Cengiz Topel Airport (KCO) is a dual-use military and civil airfield located in Kartepe, Kocaeli Province, in Turkey's Marmara region. Named after Cengiz Topel, a celebrated Turkish Air Force fighter pilot and martyr of the 1974 Cyprus Peace Operation, the airport primarily serves the industrial Kocaeli metropolitan area and offers an alternative gateway to Istanbul's Asian side. It is a medium-sized facility with limited scheduled commercial traffic, mainly handling charter, private, and training flights.
💡 Local Tip
If you have a long layover or flight delay, the nearby Kartepe Ski Center (in winter) and Sapanca Lake (year-round) are within a 30–40 minute drive and offer a refreshing break from the usual airport routine.
🚖 Getting There
The most practical way to reach the airport is by private car or taxi, as there is no direct rail or metro service. The D-100 and TEM highways connect Kartepe to Istanbul, Izmit, and other Marmara cities, making driving straightforward outside peak hours. Shared shuttle services are uncommon, so arranging ground transport in advance is strongly advised.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How far is Cengiz Topel Airport from Istanbul?
A: The airport is roughly 80–100 km east of central Istanbul, depending on the district, with a typical drive of about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Q: Does Cengiz Topel Airport have international flights?
A: Scheduled international service is very limited; most international travel from the region is handled via Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport. KCO mainly serves domestic charter and general aviation flights.
Q: Is Cengiz Topel Airport shared with the military?
A: Yes, it is a joint civil-military facility operated alongside the Turkish Air Force, which has historically used it for training and defense purposes.
Q: Are there car rental services at KCO?
A: Car rental options are limited compared to major Turkish airports, so booking in advance is recommended, especially for visitors without local contacts.
AI-generated content · Generated Jun 26, 2026 · MiniMax-M3