The Istanbul New Airport has officially unveiled its air traffic control tower, an architectural marvel conceived by the world-renowned design houses AECOM and Pininfarina.
Strategically located in the Arnavutköy district on Istanbul's European side, the airport’s design competition drew top global architects. The winning submission, a striking tulip-inspired silhouette, was awarded to AECOM and the legendary Italian firm Pininfarina—famed for their expertise in both aviation and automotive design.
The partnership between AECOM and Pininfarina delivered a vision that merges advanced aerodynamics with contemporary aesthetics.
“Our tulip-shaped tower stands as a powerful new symbol for Istanbul, reflecting both the city’s rich cultural heritage and its dynamic future as a global aviation nexus,” shares Yusuf Akçayoğlu, CEO of İGA, the airport’s operator. “With Istanbul Airport now ranked among the world’s largest and busiest aviation hubs, this iconic structure celebrates Turkey’s pivotal role in international air travel.”
Soaring 96 meters above the terminal, the elliptical tower is instantly recognizable. Its architectural motif pays homage to the tulip—an enduring emblem of Turkish artistry and history. The flower’s botanical term, “tulipa,” traces its roots to the Turkish word "tulbend," meaning turban, which the tulip’s shape recalls.
The tower’s prominent position within Istanbul Airport’s expansive campus ensures it serves as both a functional nerve center and a visual landmark for travelers and aviation professionals alike.
Jennifer Dixon, Head of Architecture, Europe, Middle East, India, and Africa at AECOM, explains, “Our approach was to blend Pininfarina’s dynamic, fluid forms—so prominent in automotive design—with AECOM’s deep experience in aviation infrastructure. Together, we have created a structure that is both operationally efficient and visually captivating, enhancing the traveler experience at this critical crossroads between Europe and Asia.”
Now fully operational, Istanbul Airport is recognized as one of the world’s largest, with an annual capacity exceeding 150 million passengers as of 2025. The airport has replaced Atatürk Airport as the city’s primary international gateway, serving as a central hub for global air traffic and cementing Istanbul’s status on the world stage.
