Natalie Dalaman Airport, one of Turkey’s top three touristic airports, handles millions of passengers annually. Also called Dalaman International Airport, this air travel hub has wholly transformed since opening in 1976.
Along with Antalya and Bodrum major airports, Dalaman airport is responsible for tourism on the southwestern coast, giving travellers easy access to their chosen destination. Many holiday home owners and expat who live on the southern coast also use Dalaman airport to get to their property.
It wasn’t until 1989 that Dalaman started handling international air traffic. Still, these days, such is the volume of passengers going through it, the airport now covers 6 million square meters. With the airport codes of IATA: DLM, ICAO, and LTBS, Dalaman, which sits in Turkey’s Mugla province, is, without a doubt, a smooth operating transport hub, with many cheap flights for sale.
Alongside Turkey’s national carrier, Turkish Airlines, many other airlines fly to and from there. But what do you need to know about this fantastic airport experience if you are passing through?
About Dalaman Airport – DLM in Turkey
Dalaman International Terminal
Dalaman International Terminal is Turkey’s third-largest terminal building, with 12 boarding gates and 8 bridges. With the ability to handle up to 35 direct international flights at any one time, this terminal opened in 2018 to cope with Turkey’s growing tourism industry.
Designed by the renowned Turkish architect Emre Arolat, the terminal covers 95,000 square meters. If you are using the Dalaman International Terminal for foreign flights, head to the upper two levels for the departure hall, while arrivals of international flights are on the lower two levels. 87 check-in desks can also get 5,000 passengers through every hour.
Domestic Flights at Dalaman
In 2018, when the new terminal opened, the old terminal was designated for domestic flights only. 60 check-in desks can handle up to 4000 passengers an hour. Terminal 2 is for international flights only, while Terminal 1 is domestic. Both are serviced by an entry road for drop-offs and pick-ups and a parking capacity for 550 cars. In both terminals, departure times are displayed on screens throughout the lounges. Domestic flights head to many other places, including Istanbul, Trabzon, and Gaziantep.
Prices of Food and Drink
While YDA Dalaman Airport excels in cleanliness and handling air traffic passengers, there is one common complaint across the review boards. That is exorbitant prices of food and drink, especially for families. Everyone knows that price in airports across the world are hefty. However, soft drink prices for Dalaman and food consistently receive complaints that they are out of touch with average day price calculations, making this an expensive airport. With this in mind, you might want to eat before you leave for the airport.
WIFI Kiosks and Premium Access
Passengers are offered 30 minutes of free internet access with the WIFI kiosks. WIFI kiosks are in the Check-in Area, Domestic Baggage Claim Area and International Arrivals before the Passport Control Area. Just use your passport or Turkish ID information to access it.
Additionally, Internet access is free at the CIP Lounges. Premium internet service exceeding 30 minutes is offered by DorukNet WiSpotter Dalaman for a fee. To use superior internet, purchase it with credit cards online by connecting to the “WiSpotter Dalaman” Wi-Fi network at the airport.
Are there Hotels Near Dalaman Airport?
Yes, there are hotels and accommodations near Dalaman Airport – DLM for those who want to rest before their flight. Karacan Park Hotel, 10 10-minute drive away, is 3-star and available to book on various websites. Dolphin Park Hotel, also 3-star, is 15 minutes’ drive away. For more choices of accommodation, use common booking sites. Dalaman is a brilliant airport, though, and offers short transfer times to many places.
Be Prepared for lots of Security Checks.
There are extreme security searches at Dalaman airport so be sure to arrive quickly. Upon entering, place your bags on the scanner belt, handbags, belts, and other attire. Remember to take laptops out of cases, then pass through the security barrier. If they bleep, you will be asked to re-enter or search. This is the first security search. Proceed to the check-in counter, and after this, go through border control.
After this, arrive at the second security barrier and airport staff may also pat you down. The third and last security barrier is at the gates once through to the departure lounge and the duty-free shops. Although there are many security checks, passengers can rest assured they can fly safely. Please note that the fast-track service includes priority check in and security checks, and bottles of water cannot be taken through security.
Luggage Handling system
Dalaman Airport uses the EDS luggage facilities system that is common across airports worldwide. This system aims to mitigate the risks of luggage loss due to mechanical issues and prevent luggage from being sent to the wrong locations or the wrong aeroplane. There is a machine opposite the check-in counters to wrap luggage items.
Parking Facilities at Dalaman Airport
There are parking facilities in front of the domestic terminal at Dalaman Airport. The parking facilities are monitored via CCTV cameras. Please check the website for information on parking fees; however, passengers will find it affordable compared to other places like the UK.
Other Transport
From the car park, catch the HAVAS or Muttas airport shuttle bus services. They head to Marmaris bus station, Gocek, and Fethiye city centre. You can check the schedule, route and rates on their official website. Many people, however, book private or shared transfer services from airport transfer companies in resorts they are heading to. The transfer services usually are no more than 10 to a van, and they drop you off at your door.
Otherwise, coming out of departures, you will find car rental offices with some excellent deals. Please don’t get an airport taxi unless it is an emergency because these are not cost-effective. There are also exchange offices here, should you need Turkish lira.
Disabled Passengers
Disabled passengers can use reserved parking, accessible toilets, wheelchair assistance, disabled check-in desks, and special seats within terminals.
About the Dalaman Region
Dalaman airport sits within the picturesque Dalaman region of southwestern Turkey, that is a top tourism spot and also hub for foreigners buying real estate. Named after Dalaman town in the Mugla Province, the area encompasses broad areas along the Turkish coast. It is characterized by diverse geography, including beautiful beaches, lush forests, fertile valleys, and rugged mountains.
The Dalaman region has many natural wonders, including the Blue Lagoon, Saklikent Gorge and Butterfly Valley, a hidden paradise accessible by boat or hiking, and named after the many butterfly species found there. The Dalyan Delta is also a protected area to take riverboat tours and observe diverse wildlife.
The region’s rich history boasts various archaeological sites and historical attractions, including ancient Lycian and Carian cities like Kaunos, Tlos, and Lydae. Also, discover impressive rock-cut tombs, particularly in Dalyan and Fethiye. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in several activities, including hiking, mountain biking, water sports, and sailing.
Average Distances to Surrounding Holiday Resorts
Average distances from Dalaman Airport (DLM) to surrounding places vary depending on your destination. Here are approximate distances from Dalaman Airport to some popular towns and resorts.
- Marmaris city centre: Approximately 95 kilometres (59 miles), taking 1.5 to 2 hours by road
- Fethiye: Approximately 49 kilometres (30 miles) and about a 45-minute journey to 1 hour by road
- Göcek: Approximately 22 kilometres (14 miles) and about 25-30 minute journey by road
- Dalyan: Approximately 24 kilometres (15 miles) and about 30-40 minutes by road
- Bodrum (via Bodrum Airport): Approximately 240 kilometres (149 miles) and about 3.5 to 4 hours by road
Which Major Holiday Resorts Does Dalaman Airport Service?
Please note: Some websites say Dalaman also services the Aegean region on the western coast. However, to head there to significant holiday resorts like Altinkum, Kusadasi or the Bodrum peninsula, it is better to use Milas – Bodrum Airport or Izmir Airport for shorter transfer times.
Marmaris Town Centre: Approximately 95 kilometres (59 miles) southwest, this town is one of the major holiday destinations in Turkey. Explore the historical Marmaris Castle, which houses the Marmaris Museum and offers panoramic views. Stroll through the charming old town of narrow streets, local shops, and traditional Turkish cafes.
Discover the elegant Marmaris Marina, a hub for yacht enthusiasts and a great place to dine and shop. Enjoy water sports like jet skiing, parasailing, and scuba diving in clear Mediterranean waters. Marmaris city centre is also famous for vibrant nightlife scenes, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues along Bar Street.
Fethiye City Centre: Approximately 49 kilometres (30 miles) southeast of the Dalaman region, Fethiye city centre earns fame for sites of natural beauty and historical value. Visit Oludeniz and the postcard-perfect Blue Lagoon and opportunities for paragliding. Explore the historic Old Town (Paspatur) to shop for souvenirs, dine at Turkish restaurants, and visit the fish market.
Stroll along Fethiye Marina and enjoy Mediterranean views. Venture to Tlos, an ancient Lycian city with ruins, a theatre, and stunning mountain views. Fethiye city centre also offers excellent outdoor activities such as hiking, boat trips to secluded coves, and exploring ancient ruins.
Göcek: Approximately 22 kilometres (14 miles) southeast of Dalaman Airport, Gocek boasts upscale marinas, pristine bays, and sailing opportunities. Take boat tours to explore the beautiful Göcek Islands, offering secluded beaches and crystal-clear waters. Visit Göcek’s world-class marinas to rent yachts or enjoy fine dining with harbour views. Discover nearby ancient Lycian and Carian sites, such as Kaunos and Lydae. Göcek, a paradise for sailing enthusiasts, offers yacht charters and water sports like windsurfing and scuba diving.
Dalyan town centre: Approximately 24 kilometres (15 miles) northeast of Dalaman Airport, Dalyan boasts ancient rock tombs and therapeutic mud baths. Relax on Iztuzu Beach, a protected nesting ground for loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta). Experience the healing properties of Dalyan mud baths and hot springs. Explore the ancient ruins of Kaunos, including rock tombs, a theatre, and Roman baths. Take a riverboat tour to visit the rock tombs and enjoy the picturesque surroundings. Dalyan is beautiful and full of lovely people for a family with kids.
Also About Southern Turkey
International Airlines: Whether you are planning to live in Turkey or just holiday here, many international airlines fly to Turkey from the UK, so you can find direct or connecting flights no matter what time of the year. Most major UK airports offer flights to Turkey, including London Heathrow Airport, Manchester Airport and London Stansted Airport. Istanbul Airport, Antalya Airport and Dalaman Airport are popular airports to fly into when travelling from the UK.
Owning a Holiday Home in Turkey: When buying holiday homes in the sun, one destination that clients offer favour is the turquoise coast of Turkey. Also called the Turkish Riviera, southwest Turkey boasts ancient ruins and historical sites, sleepy villages, beautiful bays, and many beaches, making the region an ideal destination for anyone investing in homes abroad.
