If you’re arriving by plane, you won’t have to think too long which airport to fly into. Ankara has just one – Esenboga Airport (ESB).

If you’re staying in central Ankara, it’s wise to organize how you’ll get into the city before you land. The downtown area is approximately 23 kilometers from ESB.

Ankara Esenboğan Airport is the main airport in Ankara. Before you step on the plane, it’s a good idea to research a little about it. The terminal sits around 23 kilometers from the downtown area.

There are 15 airlines connecting Ankara to 60 airports globally.

Turkish Airlines operates most of the flights to Ankara. Grabbing a Turkish Airlines flight from Istanbul is the preferred way of getting there.

With approximately 631 nonstop flights running every week, you’ll be hitting the runway in Ankara before you can say, “Are we there yet?”

Travelers often jet off from Istanbul, Antalya and Izmir airports when going to Ankara.

If you’re flying to Ankara from Istanbul, you’re looking at a flight duration of 1 hour and 5 minutes. Those setting off from Izmir can expect to be in the air for 1 hour and 15 minutes. From Antalya it’s about 1 hour and 5 minutes away.

Don’t leave booking your flight to Ankara until the last possible moment. That’s one move frequent travelers use to get the best prices. Booking well in advance means more choices and more affordable flights. Don’t stop there, however. Do some research and check if there are multiple airports at your destination. Ticket prices often differ depending on the airport you fly into. Be sure to compare fares across airlines as well. Last of all, another easy way to save some money is be ready to book at a moment’s notice. If you see a fantastic bargain, don’t hold off — snap it up while you’ve got the chance.

If you’re not prepared, airports and flying can be a real challenge. But don’t hit the panic button just yet. Follow these useful tips and enjoy a trouble-free start to your vacation in Ankara.What to pack in your hand luggage:

• First, put in your passport, official ID, credit cards and medications. Next, you’ll want some entertainment to while away the hours. A thrilling book and a phone crammed with your favorite shows are good options. If you hope to take a quick nap, a neck pillow and a pair of noise-canceling headphones will also come in handy. Finally, make room for a toothbrush and some deodorant to ensure you hop off the plane feeling fresh as a daisy.

Do not pack the following items in your hand luggage:

• While the list of prohibited items differs between air carriers, the general rule to follow is avoid carrying anything sharp, flammable or explosive. This includes things like screwdrivers, blades, aerosol cans and bleaching agents. Sports equipment like ice skates, and objects that could injure passengers, such as firearms and swords, won’t be allowed on board either.

What to wear on a flight:

• The aisles of an airplane are no fashion runway. Layer yourself up with comfortable clothes and take a sweater as it can get quite cool in the cabin during long-haul flights. Flat, slightly roomy shoes are also a good choice.
• A serious condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a risk on long-haul flights. It’s the result of blood clotting due to inactivity and poor circulation. Walking around the cabin and doing regular leg and foot exercises in your seat helps to prevent this from occurring. Wearing a quality pair of compression socks is also a wise idea.

As savvy travelers know, the secret is to be well organized before you reach the security gate. That way, you’ll be boarding that plane to Ankara in a flash. Follow these tips and get your trip off to a spectacular start:

• Airport security personnel first need to know that you have a valid ID and travel documents before you’re allowed to proceed any further. Have them in your hand, ready for inspection.
• Time to strip down. Well kind of. Your jacket, belt, keys and other contents of your pockets, like your earphones, will be required to go through the X-ray machine. Make your life easier by removing them as your turn draws near.
• All electronic gadgets, including your phone and tablet, will also need to be separately scanned.
• Traveling with your favorite cologne or perfume? As long as it’s in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and it’s stored in a zip-lock bag, you’re permitted to bring it with you on board.
• There’s a possibility that you’ll be asked to remove your shoes for scanning, so wearing lightweight sneakers is always a good idea.
• Sharp items such as knives and scissors are prohibited in the cabin. They’ll be seized at security, so pack them safely away in your checked bags.