Istanbul International Airport (IST) has rapidly ascended the global cargo rankings, moving from 47th in 2019 to 17th in 2024, due to significant infrastructure investments, automation, and a strategic focus on e-commerce. Central to this growth is Cargo City, a vast complex capable of handling up to 5.5 million tonnes annually, and the advanced SmartIST facility, which enhances efficiency in cargo handling. With competitive operating costs and a robust airline ecosystem, including major integrators, IST is positioned as a key hub in global logistics and air freight, reshaping Europe’s cargo landscape.

Source: https://www.stattimes.com/cargo-airports/from-47th-to-17th-how-istanbul-airport-redefined-cargo-in-five-year-1356384