Yes, Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) is a large and busy airport, but it is smaller than Istanbul Airport (IST), the city’s main international hub.
Key Facts About Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW):
- Size & Capacity:
- It is Istanbul’s second-largest airport and one of the busiest in Turkey.
- Handles over 35 million passengers annually.
- Covers an area of 655 hectares (1,620 acres).
- Location:
- Situated on the Asian side of Istanbul, about 45 km (28 miles) from the city center.
- Airlines & Flights:
- Serves both domestic and international flights.
- A major hub for low-cost carriers like Pegasus Airlines, but also serves airlines such as Turkish Airlines, Emirates, and Qatar Airways.
- Facilities:
- Single terminal serving both domestic and international flights.
- Shops, duty-free, restaurants, and lounges available.
- Public transport options include buses, taxis, and the M4 metro line connecting it to the city.
How Does It Compare to Istanbul Airport (IST)?
| Feature | Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) | Istanbul Airport (IST) |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Asian side of Istanbul | European side of Istanbul |
| Annual Passengers | ~35 million | ~70+ million |
| Size | 1 terminal | Multiple terminals |
| Main Airlines | Pegasus Airlines, Turkish Airlines | Turkish Airlines (main hub), international carriers |
| Public Transport | Metro (M4), buses, taxis | Metro (M11), buses, taxis |
Is Sabiha Gökçen a Good Airport to Fly From?
✅ Pros:
- Less crowded than Istanbul Airport (IST).
- Good for low-cost flights.
- Closer to destinations on the Asian side of the city.
❌ Cons:
- Can be far from the European side (Taksim, Sultanahmet).
- Fewer long-haul flights compared to IST.
Would you like tips on the best way to reach the city from SAW? 😊