Chicago Department of Aviation | Chicago Department of Aviation
Chicago Department of Aviation | Chicago Department of Aviation
The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) and iGA Istanbul Airport have announced a new Sister Airport agreement between O’Hare International Airport and iGA. This partnership links America’s best-connected hub with one of Europe’s fastest-growing global gateways.
“This sister airport agreement marks an exciting new chapter in the partnership between two global aviation powerhouses,” stated Selahattin Bilgen, CEO of iGA Istanbul Airport. “By joining forces with O’Hare International Airport, we are not only strengthening the bonds between continents, cultures, and commerce, but also laying the foundation for a future defined by deeper collaboration, innovation, and shared excellence.”
Michael J. McMurray, CDA Commissioner, expressed his enthusiasm: “On behalf of Mayor Brandon Johnson, I’m proud to welcome iGA Istanbul Airport as O’Hare’s latest Sister Airport. I’m excited to grow our international relationships and share best practices to help keep the world connected to Chicago and Chicago connected to the world.”
The agreement was formalized at a ceremony on June 20 at O’Hare’s Terminal 5. The event was attended by executives from both airports and Türkiye's Consul General in Chicago, Tahir Bora Atatanır. This alliance is expected to enhance bilateral relations between the United States and Türkiye.
Phil Clement, President & CEO of World Business Chicago, remarked on the significance of this agreement: “Chicago is a global city, and our strength lies in the deep, lasting ties we enjoy with partners around the world.” He added that this partnership unites two dynamic cities serving as gateways between East and West.
iGA Istanbul Airport was ranked seventh busiest globally by passenger numbers in 2024. It serves as a hub for Turkish Airlines with nonstop service to over 330 destinations worldwide. The new partnership marks iGA's first sister airport relationship in the Americas.
This Sister Airport agreement covers joint working groups focusing on areas such as airport management and sustainable development. It is part of CDA’s existing network of nine other Sister Airports across various countries.
To date, iGA Istanbul Airport has similar agreements with airports in South Korea, China, Denmark, Thailand, and Vietnam.
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