It is a major destination during the European summer leisure season due to its location at the country's Mediterranean coast.

[4] The airport was built to accommodate the millions of passengers who come to Turkey's Mediterranean beaches in summer.

The construction of International Terminal 1 started in 1996 by Bayindir Holding and it was ready for service on 1 April 1998.

The Antalya Tramway has been extended to the airport to provide a railway link to the city.

[citation needed] There is a military base on the western side of the airport, serviced by the third runway (18R / 36L), which is reserved for use by the Turkish Air Force.