Sabiha Gokcen Airport: The Gate of Istanbul
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Key facts: Sabiha Gokcen Airport
- Official source: According to DHMİ, Türkiye’s State Airports Authority, Sabiha Gökçen’s second runway, 3,540 metres long, opened on 25 December 2023.
- It allows wide-body aircraft to land.
What is Sabiha Gokcen Airport?
Sabiha Gokcen Airport, officially known as Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (SAW), is one of the main airports serving Istanbul, Turkey. Location: Sabiha Gokcen Airport is located on the Asian side of Istanbul, approximately 35 kilometers southeast of the city center. It is situated near the town of Pendik. Facilities: The airport has a range of facilities and services to cater to the needs of passengers. These include various shops, duty-free stores, restaurants, cafes, currency exchange, ATMs, car rental services, prayer rooms, and free Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal. Airlines and Destinations: Sabiha Gokcen Airport serves as a hub for several domestic and international airlines. It offers flights to numerous destinations in Turkey, Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. Some of the major airlines operating at the airport include Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, and AtlasGlobal. Transportation Options: There are several transportation options available to and from Sabiha Gokcen Airport, including: Taxi: Taxis are readily available outside the terminal. It is advisable to use official taxi services and agree on the fare beforehand or use a taxi meter. Airport Shuttle: HAVABUS operates shuttle services between Sabiha Gokcen Airport and various locations in Istanbul, including Taksim Square and Kadikoy. The shuttle buses are a convenient and affordable option for transportation. Public Transportation: There are also public bus services that connect the airport to different parts of Istanbul. The bus stops are located near the airport terminal. Car Rental: If you prefer to drive, several car rental companies have counters at the airport, allowing you to rent a car for your transportation needs. Terminal Expansion: Sabiha Gokcen Airport has undergone significant expansions and improvements in recent years to accommodate the growing number of passengers. The airport currently operates two terminals, namely Terminal 1 (domestic and international flights) and Terminal 2 (international flights). It’s important to check the latest information and updates regarding transportation options, flight schedules, and any specific requirements before traveling to or from Sabiha Gokcen Airport.
How do you get to Sabiha Gokcen Airport?
There are several transportation options available to get to Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW) in Istanbul, Turkey. Taxi: Taxis are a convenient option for getting to Sabiha Gokcen Airport. You can easily find taxis throughout the city, and most taxi drivers are familiar with the airport. It is advisable to use official taxi services and agree on the fare beforehand or use a taxi meter. Airport Shuttle: HAVABUS operates shuttle services between Sabiha Gokcen Airport and various locations in Istanbul. The shuttle buses are a popular and affordable option. They run on scheduled routes and offer comfortable transportation to and from the airport. You can check the HAVABUS website for schedules and fares. Public Transportation: Istanbul has an extensive public transportation network, including buses and metro lines. You can use public buses to reach Sabiha Gokcen Airport from different parts of the city. The bus stops are located near the airport terminal. Check the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality website or use public transportation apps for route and schedule information. Car Rental: If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car from various car rental companies in Istanbul and drive to Sabiha Gokcen Airport. The airport has designated car rental counters where you can pick up and drop off your rental vehicle. Private Transfers: Another option is to book a private transfer service. Many companies in Istanbul offer private transportation to and from Sabiha Gokcen Airport. This option provides convenience and comfort, especially if you have a lot of luggage or prefer a more personalized experience.
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Frequently asked questions about Sabiha Gokcen Airport
Which airport is Sabiha Gokcen?
Sabiha Gokcen, code SAW, Istanbul’s second airport, on the Asian side of the city. It is the main base for low-cost carriers flying into Turkey.
How do you get from Sabiha Gokcen into Istanbul?
The M4 metro connects the airport towards Kadikoy, Havabus coaches run to Taksim and Kadikoy, and taxis are available. If you are heading to the European side, add time for the Bosphorus crossing.
Should you fly into Sabiha Gokcen or Istanbul Airport?
It depends where you are staying. Sabiha Gokcen is the better choice for the Asian side and often for Kadikoy. For Sultanahmet and Beyoglu, Istanbul Airport is usually the easier arrival despite being further out.
How far is Sabiha Gokcen from the old city?
Around fifty kilometres, and the journey means crossing the Bosphorus. Allow an hour and a half in ordinary traffic and considerably more at peak times.
How long is the second runway at Sabiha Gökçen?
DHMİ records that Sabiha Gökçen’s second runway, 3,540 metres long, entered service on 25 December 2023. (DHMİ — State Airports Authority)
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