Sivas Nuri Demirağ Airport (VAS)

Sivas Nuri Demirağ Airport (IATA: VAS, ICAO: LTAR) serves as the primary aviation gateway to the city of Sivas and the surrounding Central Anatolia region of Turkey. It plays a crucial role in connecting this historically significant area with major domestic hubs, facilitating business, tourism, and travel for local residents. The airport provides a modern and efficient entry point for visitors exploring the city's rich Seljuk heritage and natural landscapes.

Originally established as a military airbase, the facility opened to civilian air traffic in 1990. A significant milestone occurred in 2010 when a new, modern terminal building was inaugurated, substantially enhancing its capacity and passenger comfort. That same year, the airport was renamed in honor of Nuri Demirağ, a Sivas-born industrialist and a pioneering figure in the history of Turkish aviation and railway construction, recognizing his contributions to the nation's development.

The airport is conveniently situated approximately 23 kilometers (14 miles) northwest of the Sivas city center. The typical travel time by road is about 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Travelers can access the city using several ground transportation options. Taxis are readily available outside the terminal, and various car rental agencies maintain desks in the arrivals hall. Additionally, Havaş airport shuttle buses offer a reliable and cost-effective service, with schedules typically synchronized with flight arrivals and departures.

Operations at Sivas Nuri Demirağ Airport are predominantly domestic. Regular flights connect Sivas with Turkey's main aviation hubs, including Istanbul (IST and SAW) and Izmir (ADB). The primary carriers serving these routes are Turkish Airlines, its subsidiary AnadoluJet, and Pegasus Airlines. The airport also handles seasonal international and charter flights, particularly to destinations in Europe during the summer months to serve the Turkish diaspora.

The airport features a single, well-organized terminal building that simplifies the travel process. Inside, passengers have access to essential facilities, including check-in counters, a baggage claim area, and a few cafes and snack bars for light refreshments. For eligible passengers, a CIP lounge provides a quiet space to wait for their flight. As a smaller regional airport, its retail and dining options are limited but sufficient for travelers' basic needs. For a smooth experience, it is advisable for passengers to arrive 90 minutes before domestic departures. The compact layout of the terminal ensures that navigating from check-in to the boarding gate is a quick and straightforward process.