Hi, my daughter and I are flying from NYC to Athens connecting in Istanbul on Turkish Airlines all the way - with two hours to connect. Do we go through Customs in Istanbul? If so we're worried that 2 hours may not be enough.
Posted by
Camarillo, California
3122 posts
No. You'll stay in the transit area and wait for your flight.
Posted by
Washington DC Region, USA
7049 posts
No, that's not the purpose of customs (customs is not the same thing as Passport Control either). Customs is when you declare items (including agricultural) you are exporting from the country you just visited to a Customs Official. You "clear customs" as you exit the airport. What you're describing is a connecting flight, where you simply transit through to the correct gate. Two hours should be plenty. If not, they'll put you on the next flight (if you're flying Turkish Air, there are multiple flights to Athens, so nothing to worry about).
Posted by
Tel Aviv
15585 posts
You may have to go through a security check. See this thread (and my detailed reply). I emphasize that luggage gets delayed on short connections.
Posted by
OP
28 posts
You’re right Agnes. My question should have been whether we will have time to go through security check before our connecting flight. Thank you all for your replies.