Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (IATA: SAW) is Istanbul’s second major airport, located on the Asian side of the city. Named after Sabiha Gökçen, the world’s first female fighter pilot and the adopted daughter of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the airport stands as a tribute to Turkey’s aviation legacy. It serves as a key hub for domestic and international flights, offering a strategic alternative to the larger Istanbul Airport on the European side.
History and Construction of Sabiha Gökçen Airport
The idea for a second airport in Istanbul emerged in the late 1990s as air traffic grew significantly, and Atatürk Airport approached its capacity. Construction of Sabiha Gökçen Airport began in February 1998, and it officially opened for operations on January 8, 2001. The airport was developed to ease congestion, boost economic growth, and expand Istanbul’s connectivity to global markets.
Development Phases: The airport initially featured a single terminal and runway, designed to handle 3 million passengers annually. However, due to increasing demand, expansion projects were undertaken over the years.
Growth: In 2009, the airport saw the addition of a new terminal capable of accommodating 25 million passengers annually. The expansion included new runways, apron areas, and enhanced cargo facilities.
Recognition: In 2010, the airport was named the world’s fastest-growing airport, reflecting its importance in the region.
Location and Accessibility
Sabiha Gökçen Airport is located in Pendik, approximately 40 km southeast of the city center, providing easier access for travelers in Istanbul’s Asian districts and surrounding regions.
Transportation Options:
Bus and Shuttle Services: Havaist and Havabus shuttle services connect the airport to major hubs like Kadıköy, Taksim, and Sultanahmet.
Metro: The M4 metro line was extended to reach the airport, providing a direct route to the city.
Taxi and Ride-Sharing: Taxi services are available around the clock, and ride-sharing apps like Uber also operate at the airport.
Car Rental: Several car rental companies provide services directly from the airport.
Importance and Global Significance
Sabiha Gökçen Airport plays a crucial role in Istanbul’s aviation landscape by alleviating traffic from the larger Istanbul Airport and enhancing connectivity for travelers in Asia Minor and beyond.
Low-Cost Carrier Hub: The airport serves as the primary hub for Pegasus Airlines and other low-cost carriers, making it a preferred airport for budget-conscious travelers.
Cargo Operations: The airport facilitates significant cargo movement, further contributing to Istanbul’s role as a key logistics center.
Economic Growth: Sabiha Gökçen Airport contributes substantially to the local and national economy by creating jobs and fostering tourism.
Facilities and Services
Terminal Size: The terminal building spans over 320,000 square meters, offering modern amenities and efficient services.
Shopping and Dining: The airport boasts a wide range of duty-free shops, retail outlets, and restaurants.
Lounges: Several lounges offer comfortable spaces for business and leisure travelers.
Hotels: ISG Airport Hotel is located within walking distance, providing convenient accommodation for travelers with long layovers.
Tips for Travelers
Arrive Early: The airport can get busy during peak hours, so arriving 2-3 hours before your flight is recommended.
Explore Local Cuisine: The airport’s food court features Turkish and international cuisine, offering travelers a taste of Istanbul before departure.
Use Public Transport: The metro line provides the fastest and most affordable way to reach the city center.
To meet increasing demand, plans are in place to construct a second runway and expand terminal facilities, further increasing the airport’s capacity to handle passenger growth.
Sabiha Gökçen Airport stands as a vital pillar of Istanbul’s aviation network, offering travelers efficient services and a gateway to both domestic and international destinations. With continuous upgrades and expansions, the airport is set to play an even more significant role in Turkey’s transportation landscape.
