When did you last fly abroad from the Atatürk Airport International Terminal?
HALİL ERGÜN:
I went to Switzerland from Atatürk Airport with Turkish Airlines. I have family and relatives there. I often fly to Switzerland both on business and for pleasure.
LEVENT ÜZÜMCÜ:
I flew to Batumi in February. We went on to Artvin-Hopa from there. We went on a theater tour.
How do you feel about international terminals, where passengers from around the world spend time?
HALİL ERGÜN:
I always get excited at international terminals. I feel like I am at a world class resort, nowhere but everywhere... Like a parade where people from around the world attend, a unique place where there is friendship.
LEVENT ÜZÜMCÜ:
People at international terminals are more relaxed. You feel a sense of freedom there. Despite the fact that you are in a hurry, at times you make lasting memories that are also shared by others around you. International airports are like places where there are no borders.
Where exactly within Atatürk Airport do you prefer to spend time? What do you prefer to purchase from Duty Free? What was the last thing you bought?
HALİL ERGÜN:
I like having coffee, watching people go by. I prefer to visit Coffee Shops in the middle of the airport. Atatürk Airport International Terminal offers a large variety of choices. I buy gifts for my friends from Duty Free and other shops. I am usually interested in cosmetics departments. I often look for wine selections. Last time I bought myself a perfume which I often use named Hermes.
LEVENT ÜZÜMCÜ:
Like most people I look for foreign alcoholic beverages. I have coffee to relax. I sometimes go to Akbank’s Lounge or Gloria Jeans. I buy perfumes for my wife and myself and some chocolates for the kids. There are times when I buy alcoholic beverages. Last time I bought Blue Label for myself but had to leave it behind as I found out Batumi is not classified as an international destination.
If your plane is delayed, which airport terminal In Turkey and in the world you would prefer to spend the night?
HALİL ERGÜN:
My first choice in Turkey would be Atatürk Airport as it is comfortable and expansive....
My second choice in Turkey would be Izmir Adnan Menderes International Terminal. Outside Turkey, I like Frankfurt Airport.
LEVENT ÜZÜMCÜ:
I honestly think it wouldn’t make much difference to me, as most airports offer reasonable standards. Besides, it’s quite boring having to wait for a delayed flight, regardless where you are in the world. However, as I said, I could stay the night at any airport because I don’t find the facilities offensive at airports.
If you were given the opportunity to go anywhere in the world with an airline of your choice, without having to wait for a visa, which destination and airline would you prefer?
HALİL ERGÜN:
I would like to go to Italy. I would of course fly with THY. Not because of bias, I sincerely think THY’s services are competitive and extensive. I also feel much more comfortable amongst people who speak the same language.
LEVENT ÜZÜMCÜ:
I would most certainly want to go to Los Angeles. And on a Turkish Airlines non-stop flight if possible....