Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW)

Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) is the second major international airport serving Istanbul, located on the city's Asian (Anatolian) side. It functions as a primary hub for numerous low-cost and full-service carriers, significantly increasing the region's aviation capacity. The airport is named after Sabiha Gökçen, the first female combat pilot in the world and one of Turkey's first female aviators. Opened in January 2001, it was developed to alleviate air traffic from the then-primary Atatürk Airport. Its capacity was substantially increased with the inauguration of a new international terminal in 2009, and a second runway became operational in late 2023 to accommodate growing passenger demand.

Situated in the Pendik district, the airport is approximately 45 kilometers southeast of central tourist areas like Taksim and Sultanahmet. Travelers can reach the airport via several methods. The most direct public transport option is the M4 metro line, which terminates at the airport and connects to the city's wider rail network, including the Marmaray line for crossing the Bosphorus strait. Havabus airport shuttle buses also provide direct services to key hubs such as Kadıköy and Taksim, while municipal buses and taxis offer alternative ground transportation. Travel time by road can vary significantly, often exceeding 90 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

As one of Europe's busiest airports, Sabiha Gökçen handles a high volume of both domestic and international flights, serving over 37 million passengers in 2023. It is the main operational base for Pegasus Airlines and a major hub for AnadoluJet, a subsidiary of Turkish Airlines. The airport operates from a single, large integrated terminal building that houses both domestic and international flights under one roof, simplifying transfers. Facilities for passengers include a large duty-free area, numerous retail shops, a diverse food court with restaurants and cafes, several airport lounges, and an attached hotel for convenient overnight stays.

For a smooth journey, travelers departing from Sabiha Gökçen should allow ample transit time, especially when traveling by road from the European side. Using the M4 metro is often the most predictable and time-efficient option. It is recommended to arrive at the terminal at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international flight, as check-in and security lines can be long during peak periods. Within the terminal, clear signage directs passengers to the separate wings for domestic and international departures.