Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) - Istanbul's Premier Gateway

Located within the precincts of Istanbul's Pendik district, Sabiha Gökçen International Airport stands as a monument to modern aviation and Turkish legacy. Named in honor of the world's first female fighter pilot, Sabiha Gökçen, the airport commenced its operations in 2003 under the aegis of Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB). ISG, short for Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport Yatırım Yapım ve İşletme A.Ş., is entrusted with its operations, including cargo, ground handling, and security. Predominantly servicing domestic routes, the airport also caters to destinations across North Africa and Europe, making it Turkey's second busiest airport, following Istanbul International Airport.

About the Airport: The 2008 refurbishment and expansion of Sabiha Gökçen Airport underscored its commitment to providing passengers with avant-garde facilities. Its state-of-the-art design, cutting-edge technology, and strategic location make it an optimal choice for travelers. The hub predominantly houses low-cost carriers like Anadolujet and Pegasus Airlines, comprising a terminal equipped with two runways.

Recent Developments: As of October 2022, Sabiha Gökçen Airport proudly announced the inauguration of the Kadıköy Metro line, enhancing its connectivity to the heart of Istanbul. This integration facilitates smoother transitions between the airport, Metrobus (at Ünalan Metrobus station), Marmaray (from Ayrılıkçeşmesi to Sultanahmet), and the M4 metro line.

While Istanbul boasts three prominent airports, Sabiha Gökçen has carved a unique niche for itself. Following the transition of Ataturk Airport, Sabiha Gökçen has witnessed an uptick in its international and domestic operations, though its capacity remains secondary to Istanbul Airport.

Accessibility and Proximity: Sabiha Gökçen Airport, situated a mere 30 km southeast of Üsküdar, offers unparalleled accessibility to major districts like Kadıkoy and Harem. Though primarily serving Istanbul, its strategic location makes it a preferred choice for neighboring provinces as well. Detailed below are approximate distances and travel times to key destinations:

• Gebze and Kocaeli: 30-40 km
• Bursa: 120 km (1:30 hours by car)
• Yalova: 60 km (1 hour by car)
• Sapanca: 100 km (1:15 hours by car)
• Sakarya (Adapazarı): 120 km (1:30 hours by car)
• Bolu: 230 km (2:30 hours by car)

Taxi Services at Sabiha Gökçen: For those seeking prompt transportation, Sabiha Gökçen Airport taxis, affiliated with the Saw Cooperative, are stationed outside both domestic and international terminals. Prices are determined by km rates added to a base fare, with no distinction between day and night rates. Notably, bridge and highway fees are excluded. As of 2023, an approximate fare from the airport to Istanbul's city center stands at 500/600 TL.

Airlines Operating at Sabiha Gökçen Airport

Sabiha Gökçen Airport hosts a diverse range of airlines providing both domestic and international flights. The following airlines operate regularly from this airport:

Sabiha Gökçen Arrival Terminal

The state-of-the-art terminal at Sabiha Gökçen Airport caters to both domestic and international flights. The ground floor houses the arrival halls for both segments, while the upper floor is dedicated to departures. Once you've collected your baggage, you'll find a range of amenities including ATMs, GSM kiosks for SIM card purchases, a post office, car rental services, and various eateries such as Starbucks and fast-food giants like McDonald's and Burger King. Exiting the terminal will lead you to airport taxis and buses for your onward journey.

Accommodations Near Sabiha Gökçen Airport

For travelers seeking convenient lodgings close to the airport, we've curated a list of top hotels across various price points:

On-Site Accommodations and VIP Services

Saw Airport ISG Hotel: This 4-story, 128-room hotel, accessible both from the airside and landside, is conveniently located adjacent to the terminal. A mere five-minute walk from the arrivals section will bring you to its entrance.

VIP Terminal: This exclusive 400 m², two-story terminal is reserved for domestic and international government officials and distinguished guests as designated by the Prime Ministry.

Sabiha Gökçen International Terminal Sleeping Rooms: Newly introduced sleeping quarters are available for transit passengers at a rate of 7 Euros per hour. With separate accommodations for men and women, these rooms are equipped with bathrooms and nearby secure luggage lockers. Options for single or group bookings, including family rooms, ensure that all travelers find a space that suits their needs.

If you're looking to enjoy some shopping and entertainment during your layover at Sabiha Gökçen Airport, Viaport is your perfect destination.

Viaport Asia Outlet shopping center stands as Turkey's premier shopping destination, making it an excellent choice for transit passengers and avid shoppers alike. While Sabiha Gokcen Airport is not typically associated with extensive shopping opportunities, you'll be pleasantly surprised by the offerings at Viaport, including Luna Park, cinemas, and a variety of outlets for your entertainment. It's worth noting that the Crowne Plaza Istanbul Asia hotel, conveniently located within the Viaport Asia mall, offers superior accommodation options compared to the airport hotel, just 5 km or a 10-minute drive away.

Car Rentals at Sabiha Airport: Convenience at Your Fingertips

Renting a car or minibus at Istanbul Sabiha Airport is now easier than ever. You can choose from a range of international car rental companies that provide friendly service, the latest model vehicles, and competitive daily or weekly rates. Whether you need a sedan or a minibus for work or leisure, simply visit one of the rental car companies situated on the arrivals floor of Sabiha Gokcen Airport. Don't forget to bring your driver's license, a valid credit card, and an identity document (passport).

Sabiha Airport Public Transportation: Multiple Options for Your Convenience

The distance between Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport and the city center is approximately 50 kilometers, with a travel time of around 70 minutes by car. For transportation to and from the airport, we recommend considering various alternatives such as private cars, the metro (subway), taxis, and private transfers.

Metro Connection to Sabiha Airport

Since October 2022, the Kadıköy-Sabiha Gökçen Airport Metro line has been in operation. This 33.5 km-long metro line features 23 stations, providing passengers with a convenient connection between Kadıköy and Sabiha Gökçen Airport. The majority of the line is underground, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey.

HAVABUS: A Hassle-Free Option for Airport Transportation

HAVABUS offers a convenient transportation option from Sabiha Gokcen Airport. Travel times are approximately 45 minutes to Yenisahra, 1 hour to Kadıkoy, and 1.5 hours to Taksim, though these times may vary depending on traffic conditions.

Havabus Schedule for Sabiha Gokcen – Taksim and Taksim – Sabiha Gokcen

Havabus operates every 30 minutes between 04:00 in the morning and 01:00 at night for Sabiha Gokcen – Taksim and between 03:30 in the morning and 01:00 at night for Taksim – Sabiha Gokcen.

Navigating Istanbul's traffic after arriving at Sabiha Gokcen Airport can be overwhelming, often causing more stress than convenience. For those seeking an efficient and comfortable travel experience, consider our car hire with driver service. Imagine having an experienced driver who knows the city's traffic patterns, taking you directly to your destination without the need to search for addresses. Click here to book an affordable vehicle and enjoy the comfort of a chauffeur with foreign language proficiency, requiring just 2 hours' notice.