Istanbul's second airport on the Asian side, serving domestic and budget carriers, located 90 km from IST across the city.

About Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)

Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) is Istanbul's secondary airport, located on the Asian side of the city in the Pendik district. Named after Turkey's first female combat pilot, it has grown significantly as a hub for budget carriers like Pegasus Airlines and handles substantial domestic traffic alongside some international routes.

The 90 km distance between Istanbul Airport (IST) on the European side and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) on the Asian side makes this one of the longest inter-airport transfers in any major city. The route crosses the city center and either the Bosphorus Bridge or passes through the Eurasia Tunnel, meaning traffic conditions dramatically affect transfer times.

SAW serves as a convenient alternative for travelers headed to Istanbul's Asian neighborhoods (Kadıköy, Üsküdar) or continuing to destinations in Anatolia. The airport has a single terminal with modern facilities, and the Marmaray commuter rail and Metro connections improve access to both sides of the city.

Nearby Landmarks

Bosphorus Bridge Eurasia Tunnel Kadıköy (Asian side) Pendik

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost 800-1200 TRY (~$25-38 USD)
Time 75-120 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Step-by-Step Directions

Take a Havaist bus from IST airport to Sabiha Gökçen (direct service, 2-3.5 hours depending on traffic). Alternatively, take a taxi or private transfer. The route crosses the Bosphorus via bridge or tunnel.

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi 800-1200 TRY (~$25-38 USD) 75-120 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

Transfer taxis and Havaist buses operate 24 hours between the airports. A nighttime taxi costs TL 1,200-1,800 ($36-55). Havaist runs direct buses between the airports (limited overnight frequency). Between midnight and 4 AM, roads are clear and the drive takes 75-90 minutes.

Luggage Tips

Transfer services and taxis have trunk space. If connecting flights, you must collect checked luggage at one airport and recheck at the other—there is no airside connection. Havaist buses have large luggage holds. Plan for the long journey with essentials accessible.

Accessibility

Both airports are modern and wheelchair accessible. Transfer taxis can accommodate folded wheelchairs. Havaist buses have limited wheelchair access. For wheelchair users making this transfer, a private accessible vehicle is recommended—book through your airline or a transfer company in advance.