🇹🇷 Etimesgut Air Base

Etimesgut Air Base (LTAD (ANK)) is a military airbase of the Turkish Air Force located 15 km west of Ankara, Turkey. It is jointly operated by the Turkish Air Force and the Turkish Aeronautical Association (Türk Hava Kurumu - THK).

Type of Facility and Operations: The facility primarily serves military purposes, with the 11th Air Logistics Command operating two squadrons for military transport, cargo, ambulance, electronic warfare, and personnel transport using aircraft such as CASA CN-235M-100s, Cessna 550s, Cessna 650s, Gulfstream IVs, and Bell UH-1H helicopters. The THK utilizes the southern part of the airport for its Etimesgut Türkkuşu Training Center, which includes flight schools, maintenance, logistics, and ground support units, operating various aircraft like Antonov An-2s, Cessnas, Dornier Do 28s, and PZL models. Etimesgut Air Base also hosts events such as the International Defense Industry, Aerospace and Maritime Fair (IDEF) and civil aviation airshows.

Notable Features or History: Established in 1933, the airport has a significant history as a center for aviation training, with the Etimesgut Türkkuşu Training Center being founded in 1935. The base features two runways, both oriented in an east-west direction, with the northern part assigned to military use and the southern portion to the THK. The Ankara Aviation Museum, which is open to the public, is situated at the northeastern corner of the airport.

Current Status: Etimesgut Air Base is currently active and undergoing a major renovation and expansion process. These upgrades are in preparation for the 2026 NATO Summit, with plans to extend the main runway to 3,000 meters, expand apron and parking areas to accommodate 45-50 aircraft, and construct a 2,400 m² State Guesthouse/Honor Hall for official protocol use. While ownership will remain with the Turkish Air Force, the operation of the facility is slated to transfer to the General Directorate of State Airports Authority (DHMİ) as it transforms into a State Protocol Airport capable of accommodating large-body commercial and government aircraft in addition to private jets.