ISTANBUL SABIHA GÖKÇEN AIRPORT (SAW) INFORMATION

Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (IATA: SAW) (Turkish: Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Uluslararas Havaliman) is one of two international airports that serve Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey. The airport's official name is Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Uluslararas Havaliman.

Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport is in the Asian portion of the bi-continental city, and it is situated 32 kilometers (about 20 miles) to the southeast of the city center. It is used by AnadoluJet and Pegasus Airlines as their primary hub, and Turkish Airlines uses it as their secondary base of operations.

Sabiha Gökçen, the daughter of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, was honored with the naming of this facility. It is still one of the largest airports in the country. However, Istanbul Airport, which is situated 63 kilometers (39 miles) east of Istanbul on the European side of the city, is more well-known.

History of Sabiha Gökçen International Airport

Atatürk International Airport, situated on the city's European side, was deemed insufficient to satisfy the surging demand for air travel, which prompted the construction of the new airport (both domestic and international).

On January 8, 2001, the airport first opened for business. Limak Holding, a Turkish conglomerate, India's GMR Group, and a consortium representing Malaysia Airport Holding Berhad (MAHB) won the contract to upgrade and manage the airport in June 2007.

Midway through the year 2008, construction began on an expansion of the international terminal that would allow it to process 25 million passengers per year. On October 31, 2009, the new terminal was officially opened to the public.

The number of passengers that passed through Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport in 2010 was 11,129,472. At the World Low-Cost Airlines Congress that took place in London that same year, the airport was chosen as the Best Airport in the World.

At the moment, the airport only has one terminal that is used for both domestic and international flights. However, all five of the airport's runways—three major and two backups—are now operational. The length of both of the runways at 17/35 is 4,100 meters (13,451 feet), while the length of both of the runways at 16/34 is 3,750 meters (12,303 feet).

It includes a modern terminal building that can accommodate up to 25 million passengers annually. Under the same roof, it manages both domestic and international aviation operations. The new terminal and its surrounding buildings offer a variety of amenities and services, such as a hotel, check-in counters, VIP rooms, and business lounges. The car park of the new terminal is four stories tall and can hold around 5,000 vehicles.

In addition, the terminal houses a conference facility, cafes, restaurants, and a retail section with tax-free goods.

Multiple modes of public transportation provide access to Istanbul and the greater metropolitan area around the city from the airport. Although the airport is approximately 14 kilometers away from the district of Pendik's railway and sea-taxi stations, a connection through Marmaray is now in the works.

The airport stop on the M4 metro line is currently undergoing construction. The present terminal is located at Tavşantepe, which can be reached by taxi or bus E9 and is approximately 10 kilometers away from the airport.

Taksim and Kadikoy are serviced by the shuttle buses E10 and E11, and some coaches run to the adjacent cities and towns. The Trans-European Motorway (E80), which runs across the Istanbul Metropolitan Area, can be taken to the airport, where you can take a car to get there.

About Istanbul

The economic, cultural, and historical heart of Turkey can be found in Istanbul, which also happens to be the largest city in the country. Over 15 million people call this city home, making up 19 percent of Turkey's total population. It is located on the Bosporus strait's European and Asian sides. Istanbul has the highest population of any city in Europe and is the 15th largest metropolis in the World.

In the seventh century BCE, Greek colonists from Megara established the city that would later be known as Byzantium. Constantine the Great, the Roman emperor, made it his imperial capital in the year 330 CE, christening it first New Rome (Nova Roma), and subsequently Constantinople, after himself.

The scale of the city and its significance increased over time, and it ultimately became a prominent stop along the Silk Road and one of the most significant cities in human history.

After the Turkish War of Independence was over in 1923, Ankara took over as the capital of the newly founded Republic of Turkey, which had previously been the city. The city's name was formally changed to Istanbul in 1930. This word is the Turkish translation of the appellation that Greek speakers have used since the eleventh century to refer to the town in everyday conversation.

The city of Istanbul is found in the northwest corner of Turkey. It borders the Bosporus Strait, the sole waterway connecting the Black Sea and the Mediterranean Sea by way of the Sea of Marmara.

It has historically been in a prime location for both trade and defense due to its strategic location at the confluence of the Sea of Marmara, the Bosphorus, and the Golden Horn, which serves as an ideal defense against enemy attack and a natural toll gate. Within the municipal limits are located several scenic islands, including Büyükada, Heybeliada, Burgazada, and Knalada, in addition to five smaller islands.

The seashore of Istanbul has expanded beyond its naturally occurring boundaries. Large portions of Caddebostan are situated on top of landfills, bringing the overall land area of the city up to 5,343 square kilometers.

Over 13 million tourists from other countries visited Istanbul in 2018, making it the seventh most visited city in the World. This achievement comes eight years after the city was named the European Capital of Culture. The city of Istanbul is home to many sites that are listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

It is home to the headquarters of a large number of Turkish firms, which together are responsible for more than thirty percent of the economy of the country.

Weather in Istanbul

The last week of June is the busiest period of the year to travel to Istanbul, but the most fantastic time of year to visit for outdoor tourist activities, in general, is from the end of May to the beginning of October.

Summers in Istanbul are long, hot, windy, and partially cloudy, whereas winters are short, frigid, and mostly clear. Summers in Istanbul are humid, dry, and warm. The temperature during the course of a year ranges typically from 38 degrees Fahrenheit to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, and it very seldom falls below 30 degrees or rises over 90 degrees.

The warm season begins on June 10 and continues until September 14, during which time the daily maximum temperature is typically higher than 77 degrees Fahrenheit. August is the hottest month in Istanbul, with an average high temperature of 83 degrees Fahrenheit and a low temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

The cool season begins on November 29 and continues until March 25, during which time the average daily high temperature is lower than 55 degrees Fahrenheit. February in Istanbul is the month with the coldest average temperatures, with lows of 39 degrees Fahrenheit and highs of 48 degrees Fahrenheit.

The average proportion of the sky that is covered by clouds in Istanbul endures dramatic shifts throughout the year due to the city's high seasonal variance. The sky is at its clearest during the month of July, which has a 95 percent chance, on average, of being clear, mostly clear, or partly cloudy. July is the clearest month of the year.

Beginning about October 2 and continuing for approximately 7.8 months till May 26, the cloudier half of the year begins around that time. In Istanbul, the cloudiest month of the year is December, when, on average, the sky is overcast or mainly cloudy 57 percent of the time. This makes December the cloudiest month of the year.

At least 0.04 inches of liquid or liquid-equivalent precipitation is required for a day to be considered wet. The likelihood of having a rainy day in Istanbul fluctuates throughout the course of the year. The wetter season begins on October 2 and continues until May 1, during which time there is a greater than 19 percent chance of precipitation on any given day. December in Istanbul is the month that experiences the most rainfall, with an average of 9.5 days receiving at least 0.10 centimeters of precipitation throughout that time period.

The drier season lasts for a total of 5.0 months, beginning on May 1 and ending on October 2. In Istanbul, the month of July has an average of the fewest wet days, with only 2.3 days receiving at least 0.04 inches of precipitation over the course of the month.

December is the wettest month of the year, with an average rainfall of 2.8 inches and most days that only rain. July, with an average rainfall of 0.6 inches, is the month that receives the least amount of precipitation overall.

The snowy period begins on January 26 and continues through March 1, with a sliding 31-day snowfall of at least 1.0 inches. The snowy period is 1.2 months long. February is the month that sees the greatest snowfall in Istanbul, with an average of 3.5 centimeters falling during that time.

The city of Istanbul is situated close to a sizable body of water (e.g., the ocean, sea, or large lake). The wide-area average surface temperature of that water is reported here as part of this section.

Throughout the course of the year, the temperature of the water, on average, goes through a number of distinct seasonal transitions. The period of the year when the water is warmer lasts for 3.4 months, beginning on June 17 and ending on September 30, with an average temperature that is higher than 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The average temperature of the water during the month of February is 46 degrees Fahrenheit, making it the month with the coolest water.

Sabiha Gökçen International Airport is located 95 meters above sea level in Istanbul, Turkey, at 40°53′54′′N and 29°18′33′′E.

Transfer Services at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport

At Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport, passengers can rent cars, take taxis, share rides, or use shuttles, all of which are right in front of the airport terminal building.

This Airport is about 32 kilometers from the city center and is used by several airlines that go to and from several European cities every day. From the Airport, you can take a taxi, rideshare, or rent a car to get to the city center as quickly as possible.

• In Turkey, you'll have peace of mind if you plan your transfer options before you hit the road.
• Know what you can pack in your carry-on bag, what you can pack in your checked bag, and what you can't pack before you leave your house.
• Passengers can call the Airport Information Desk at +90 216 588 8585 at any time for help with transportation. This is for their own convenience and to get them pointed in the right direction.
• For their own safety, travelers should only do business at airport counters and other official places.

Rental Car Services at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport

Car Rental Services are located on the ground floor of the Arrivals Hall, near the Baggage Claim portion of the Terminal. See and compare all rental car companies at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport.

In general, the rental facility is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also ask your service provider about special service hours and return processes.

• Please have your valid driver's license, passport, and credit card ready to present at the counter when picking up your vehicle at the facility to expedite the procedure.
• After you have completed any required documentation, someone will deliver your car key and direct you to where your vehicle is located.
• Plan and book your rental automobile as far in advance as feasible. Also, confirm your reservation with your rental car company ahead of time.
• When you are ready to return your leased vehicle to the car rental center, remove all personal things before returning them to the designated facility.
• When returning the vehicle, allow plenty of time for the drive. Call the rental company if you're unclear where to go.
• Customers must follow the rental company's Terms and Conditions at all times when renting a vehicle.
• If you find an item(s) missing or found inside the vehicle, please notify the rental car provider directly.
• If you suspect you have misplaced something near the vehicle rental offices, please contact the Lost and Found Office or call +90 216 588 8686. They will ideally retain them in the Lost Property Office for 30 days.

Ride Shares at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport

Rideshare vehicles pick up and drop off passengers in front of the terminal building.

• Passengers can reserve rideshare by downloading the company's app on their smartphone and coordinating with their driver directly.
• To avoid the inconvenience, they can also book transportation a few days before their trip.
• Ridesharing apps should allow consumers to verify the identity of drivers by looking at their faces, license plates, and colors for increased security.

Taxis at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport

You proceed to the Ground Transportation Center from the Baggage Claim area and wait for your turn for the next available taxi.

The taxi fare from Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Downtown should be less than 300 TL if you take one of the taxi companies recommended by the Airport. See more information about taxis at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport.

Trains at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport

Please approach the Airport Information Desk for updated information about available services or other transportation-related inquiries. You can also visit our Trains page for more details.

More information about train services near Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport.

Buses at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport

From the Ground Transportation Center in front of the airport terminal, public buses are accessible. More information about buses to and from Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport.

Hotel Shuttle Services at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport

When traveling, one of the most important things to consider is how you will get from the Airport to your hotel. For example, many hotels in Istanbul provide shuttle services that will take passengers directly to their hotel upon arrival.

It is an excellent option if you are looking for convenience and affordability. Your hotel or service provider will provide you with specific instructions.

Please check with your hotel if they provide this service at the Airport. Shuttles usually have a designated pick-up drop area at the Airport Ground Transportation Center.

Parking at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport

Safe and convenient parking is available at the Airport for its clients. There is a provision for accepting payments in cash or via credit card. See more information about short and long term parking at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport.

If you have questions, please call +90 216 588 88 57 or +90 216 588 88 45. You can also call +90 216 588 88 52 or +90 216 588 80 53 to reach the valet parking office.

Other Services at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport

Wi-Fi at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport

There is wireless Internet access available all across the airport. Wi-Fi connection is available at the arrival and departure halls of our Terminal.

ATMs at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport

Many ATMs may be found in both the Arrival/Departure halls. Paying with a credit card is as simple as inserting it into one of the cash machines. It's possible that charges will be levied.

• Understanding the fees associated with using your debit or credit card at an ATM or for transactions made while traveling outside of the country might help you budget more effectively and save money.
• While some banks provide restrictions when drawing funds from an international location, using a foreign ATM usually results in a fee upward of $5 charged by your home bank.
• You can eliminate these fees by using internationally recognized banks and structuring your home account to include free foreign ATM withdrawals. Please inquire with your bank for more information.

Currency Exchange at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport

Currency exchange appears to be available at the Airport Arrivals Hall. Please approach the Information Desk for confirmation.

Nursing Stations at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport

Nursing mothers traveling through airports require a designated place to nurse and pump milk in privacy. It is a space that provides comfort for moms who need to assist their children while on the go.

If you are a nursing mother who needs some privacy, please approach the Airport Information Desk for assistance.

Restrooms at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport

The Airport provides well-maintained restrooms and is committed to providing a pleasant experience for its guests. Accessible toilets and regular bathrooms are available throughout the building.

Food and Beverages at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport

There are places to buy food and drinks all over the airport terminals. Most food stands are open at different times. Food and drinks at the Airport can be a bit expensive.

Shopping at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport

Passengers can make last-minute purchases at this facility upon arrival or departure. Unless you are seeking last-minute travel supplies or gifts, airport shopping is generally not recommended.

However, if you must purchase something at the Airport, select what is urgent and necessary. Ideally, you must avoid buying electronics from the Airport. The prices are relatively higher, and the selection is usually quite limited.

Smoking at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport

Please follow smoking regulations at the Airport to avoid the inconvenience.

• Smoking is allowed in designated areas outside the terminals. When in the facility, please follow smoking regulations at all times.
• Smoking areas are essential for smokers because they provide a place to smoke without leaving the facility and smoking in public.

Lost and Found Section at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport

Please make sure to file a report before moving to your next destination. Don't forget to include your full name, contact details, phone number, Email, and a description of the item(s).

• If you lost your belongings on an aircraft or gate area, don't hesitate to contact your respective airline.
• If you lost an item anywhere at the terminals or concourses, including the Airport transport vehicles, reach out to the Lost and Found Section at ++90 252 792 55 55.
• Items left behind at Airport Security Checkpoints are held for a minimum of 30 days or until the thing is reunited with the original owner.

Ticketing Services at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport

Even for early morning flights, airlines normally open their ticket offices two hours before departure time.

• Contact the airline directly for information on prices, purchasing tickets, and flight schedules. Also, consider the benefits of booking a flight in advance. Ticket purchases can be made directly on your airline's Website by the passenger or their representative.
• When traveling, some people buy airline tickets through the airport kiosks.
• It is convenient because it allows travelers to purchase tickets before their flight. Sometimes, the prices are lower than if they were to buy the tickets online.
• However, there are some drawbacks to buying airline tickets at the Airport. For example, sometimes the prices are higher, and the selection of flights may be more limited.

Whichever option you choose, the ticketing counters are at the Airport terminal building.

Information Desk at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport

The Airport Information Office can help you obtain valuable guidelines on flights, facilities, and travel options in and around the Airport.

Airport Information Desk at +90 216 588 8585.

Pet Relief at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport

One of the best innovations in airports over the last few years is the addition of pet relief areas. It allows passengers with pets to relieve their animals before or after a flight without going outside the airport complex.

Please look for signages if you need to relieve your four-legged friends to the area. You can also approach the Information Desk for proper guidance.

You must examine the target country's health certifications, paperwork, and quarantine procedures before flying your pet there. When allowed, pets must be in strong containers (kennels) to prevent escape.

Pet owners must observe community standards governing pet animals in enclosed public spaces. Your airline can provide all pet-documentation details.

Baggage Claim at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport

Baggage should be collected from the Baggage Claim located on the Ground Level of the Terminal where it was designated. Passengers who require further assistance can request a cart at the front desk.

• In the event that you are missing items, please contact your airline or the ticket counter for your airline.
• If you have damaged or missing luggage, please contact the Lost & Found Office at the following number: +90 216 588 8686.
• When you leave a message, be sure to include your full name, a contact phone number, email address, and a brief description of the item that was lost (s).

Disabled Passengers at Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport

Please phone +90 216 588 88 88 if you are a passenger with a disability or medical needs and you have questions about the policies or procedures that are in place at the airport security checkpoints.

In addition, they may communicate the requirement for carts, wheelchairs, or medical transportation to the airline, travel agent, ticketing agent, flight attendant, or gate agent.

Transfers to and from the Airport, various modes of transportation, and contingency plans should all be included in the travel itinerary.

In conclusion, it is imperative that passengers arrive at the airport one hour before the time specified. It will give time for accommodations to be made, which will eliminate waits at the security gates.

Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen Airport Contacts

Address: Sanayi, 34906 Pendik/İstanbul, Turkey

General Phone: +90 444 3 729

General Email: https://www.sabihagokcen.aero/corporate-info/contact-form

Lost and Found Phone: +90 216 588 8686

Information Desk: +90 216 588 8585

Official Website: https://www.sabihagokcen.aero

Local Information

Drive on: Right

Electricity: 230V/50Hz.

Plug: C, F

Currency: Turkish Lira, TL

Wi-Fi at Airport: Wi-Fi is available for free at this airport. There is a separate process for connecting the internet at the facility.