CHP Şanlıurfa Deputy Mahmut Tanal made a strong statement regarding the closure of Van Ferit Melen Airport for 1 months between May 15 and August 2025, 3,5. In his statement on his social media account, Tanal stated that the closure of the airport would cause great harm to Van's tourism, economy and the transportation rights of the local people.
Van's Tourism and Economy Will Be Damaged
Tanal emphasized that Van has a high tourism potential, but the closure of the airport will prevent the flow of tourists. He stated that while local and foreign tourists are expected to come to the region at the beginning of the summer season, the hotel and tourism sectors will suffer great losses with the closure of the airport. He also noted that trade will be disrupted and the business world will suffer, and that the regional economy will suffer serious losses.
Closure Decision Without Alternative Solution Criticized
Tanal described the complete closure of the airport as an unplanned and unlawful decision, stating that such a practice had not been implemented in any other major city in Türkiye. He also said that it was unacceptable to implement such a practice on the people of Van without an alternative runway or solution being produced.
Reaction to DHMİ: Wrong Decision Must Be Reversed Immediately
Finally, Tanal stated that the State Airports Authority (DHMİ) and related institutions should immediately reverse this wrong decision that destroyed Van's tourism, economy and transportation rights. He demanded that this decision, which will cause victimization to the people of Van and the regional economy, be reviewed.
