Zafer Airport (KZR)

Zafer Airport (KZR) is a modern regional airport located in the Altıntaş district of Kütahya province in western Turkey. It serves as a key transportation hub for the surrounding provinces of Kütahya, Afyonkarahisar, and Uşak, providing essential air connectivity for a region rich in thermal tourism, historical sites, and industrial activity. The airport's primary role is to connect this inland area with major domestic and international destinations, facilitating both business and leisure travel.

Opened in November 2012, Zafer Airport holds the distinction of being Turkey's first regional airport constructed under a build-operate-transfer (BOT) model, a significant milestone in the country's aviation infrastructure development. Its strategic placement was intended to stimulate economic growth and accessibility for the three neighboring provinces. The airport is situated in a rural area, approximately 45 kilometers from Kütahya city center, 60 kilometers from Afyonkarahisar, and 100 kilometers from Uşak. Travelers typically access the airport via D-650 and D-615 highways, using private cars, rental vehicles, taxis, or dedicated airport shuttle services like Havaş, which coordinate their schedules with flight times.

Operations at Zafer Airport include both domestic and international flights. Turkish Airlines is the primary carrier, operating regular scheduled flights to Istanbul, which serves as a major gateway for onward connections. International traffic is largely seasonal, with charter and scheduled flights operated by airlines such as SunExpress and Eurowings, primarily connecting the region with destinations in Germany and other European countries during the summer months to serve expatriate communities and tourists. While passenger volume is modest compared to major hubs, it provides a crucial service for its catchment area.

The airport features a single, well-maintained terminal building designed to handle both domestic and international passengers efficiently. Facilities for travelers include check-in counters, a comfortable departures lounge, a small selection of cafes and snack bars for refreshments, and a duty-free shop for those on international flights. Car rental agencies also have desks within the terminal, offering convenient options for onward travel.

For those traveling through Zafer Airport, it is advisable to pre-arrange ground transportation due to its remote location. Shuttle bus schedules should be confirmed in advance, as they are directly tied to flight arrivals and departures. While the airport's smaller size allows for a relatively quick check-in and security process, arriving 90 minutes before a domestic flight and two to three hours before an international flight is still recommended.