Let me clear my throat. You can't be too annoyed at an airport that doesn't lose your luggage and…read moregets you from point A to point B safely; however, my word of wisdom--and what I believe would truly elevate the experience--is stronger, clearer communication.
My husband and I arrived at the airport 4.5 hours before our flight and immediately went to the Turkish Airlines counter to check our bags before heading to the VAT tax counter to handle other business. As we approached the counter, no one was there. It was completely desolate. We looked around, checked underneath the counters, peered behind the computer monitors--calling on all angels to locate a human being. We waited about 20 minutes, and during that time, other travelers approached us asking if this was the correct counter, whether the airline was operating, and if anyone was coming. We had no answers either.
Eventually, I walked to another counter to inquire about what was happening. That's when we were informed that Turkish Airlines staff do not arrive until three hours before departure.
Let me be clear--who would reasonably know that other than employees or someone who has previously experienced this? A simple sign stating, "Counter opens at ____," would have resolved the confusion instantly.
Airports are already high-stress environments. Travelers are navigating time constraints, security lines, and tight schedules. Clear signage isn't a luxury--it's basic customer care. A small communication effort would make a significant difference.
It doesn't take a rocket scientist.
