Istanbul: Travellers are raising eyebrows over food and beverage prices at Istanbul Airport, which has been described as the "world’s most expensive" airport by global passengers. Reports highlight that even the most basic items, such as a single banana, are being sold for £5 (approximately ₹565), while a beer costs £15 (₹1,697), leading to widespread criticism.

According to The Mirror, passengers were left stunned by the pricing disparity, especially when compared to other international airports. Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera also reported on the issue, with one writer recalling a 90-gram portion of lasagna being priced at £21 (₹2,376). The writer criticised not only the cost but also the quality, describing the lasagna as resembling “a piece of brick with a sprinkling of what looks like grated cheese.”

Istanbul Airport, which handles around 220,000 passengers daily, has come under scrutiny as visitors take to platforms like Reddit to question the high rates. One user noted that prices were “2 to 4 times” higher than at Germany’s Frankfurt Airport, calling the situation “ridiculous.”

Even globally recognised fast-food outlets such as McDonald’s and Burger King are reportedly charging significantly above normal rates for their standard meals. A traveller mentioned that two Big Mac meals in Dalaman, Turkey, cost around €40 (₹3,882), far exceeding typical pricing found in US airports like LaGuardia or Orlando MCO.

Many passengers have expressed disappointment that while the terminal's architecture is impressive, the excessive pricing tarnishes the travel experience. As of now, no official statement has been issued by Istanbul Airport authorities regarding the pricing strategy or vendor regulations.

With food costs becoming a growing concern for international travellers, Istanbul Airport’s reputation as a luxury-priced transit hub may continue to draw criticism in the months ahead.