Istanbul Airport has cemented its position as Europe's busiest airport, according to the latest data from the European Organisation for the Safety of Air Navigation (EUROCONTROL). With an average of 1,482 daily flights between 21 and 27 April 2024, the airport outperformed its European counterparts, including Amsterdam Schiphol, London Heathrow, Paris Charles De Gaulle, and Frankfurt. This achievement marks the third consecutive year Istanbul Airport has held this prestigious title, showcasing its growing influence in global aviation.

The airport's success is attributed to its state-of-the-art infrastructure, including the recent commencement of simultaneous triple runway operations on 17 April 2024. This feature not only positions Istanbul Airport as the first in Europe to operate three runways simultaneously but also as the second in the world, trailing only behind the United States. Such advancements have significantly enhanced the airport's capacity and efficiency, contributing to its record-breaking performance.

In 2024, Istanbul Airport handled approximately 80 million passengers, further solidifying its status as Europe's largest and second-busiest airport. The airport's passenger traffic saw a 4% increase year-on-year and a remarkable 24% surge compared to the same period in 2019. Additionally, it emerged as Europe's busiest air cargo hub last year, as per the Airports Council International (ACI) Europe's 2024 Annual Traffic Report, highlighting its pivotal role in both passenger and cargo transportation.

The continuous growth and achievements of Istanbul Airport underscore Turkey's strategic investments in the aviation sector, aiming to establish the country as a key global transit hub. With its unparalleled infrastructure and operational capabilities, Istanbul Airport is set to maintain its leadership in European aviation, fostering economic and tourism benefits for Turkey and beyond.

A man in his 50s remains in life-threatening condition after sustaining a serious head injury during an altercation with door staff outside licensed premises in Lurgan, County Armagh. The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday morning around 12:55am in the William Street area of the town, according to police statements from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI).

Detective Inspector Handley confirmed that the man had been attempting to re-enter the licensed premises when he became aggressive toward two members of the door staff. Police reports indicate that the door staff pushed the man backward, causing him to fall and strike his head on the ground, resulting in the serious head injury that now threatens his life.

The door staff provided immediate medical treatment to the injured man before he was transported to hospital, where he remains in critical condition. Police have not released additional details about the man's identity or current medical status, focusing instead on their ongoing investigation into the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.

PSNI detectives are continuing their enquiries and have appealed for witnesses or anyone with information, CCTV footage, or mobile phone recordings of the incident to come forward. The police reference number for the investigation is 75 of 19/10/25, and information can be provided through multiple channels including the PSNI website or anonymously via Crimestoppers.