Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport(ISG)

Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport is one of the largest airports in the world, providing a unique experience for travelers with its diverse facilities and outstanding services. This airport is not only a gateway for international travelers but also a popular destination in its own right. Sabiha Gokcen Airport is a favored choice for both domestic and international flights and, due to its geographical location, offers easy access to various parts of Istanbul. In terms of traffic and access to urban centers, it is usually less crowded and less complicated than the new Istanbul International Airport, located in the European part of the city. Upon arriving at Istanbul’s Sabiha Gokcen Airport, you will discover a new world.

In this article, we will provide you with comprehensive information about Istanbul’s Sabiha Airport to ensure a different experience when traveling to Istanbul and staying at this airport for transit flights. Stay tuned to Sepehran’s blog.

What you will read about Sabiha Gokcen Airport in Istanbul covers its features and facilities.

• Where is Istanbul’s Sabiha Gokcen Airport located?
• Introduction and history of Sabiha Gokcen Airport
• Terminals of Sabiha Gokcen Airport in Istanbul
• The most important flights from Sabiha to Iran
• Facilities at Sabiha Gokcen Airport, Istanbul Free internet at Sabiha Airport
• Self-check-in kiosks
• Parking at Sabiha Gokcen Airport, Istanbul
• Transportation at Sabiha Gokcen Airport
• Access to Istanbul’s Sabiha Airport
• Taxis at Sabiha Airport
• Tourist services at Sabiha Gokcen Airport in Istanbul
• Shopping for souvenirs at Istanbul Airport
• Distance from the airport to key urban centers

General information about Sabiha Gokchen Airport

Where is Istanbul’s Sabiha Airport located?

Sabiha Gökçen International Airport is located on the Asian side of Istanbul, Turkey. It is one of the two international airports in Istanbul, Turkey. The airport is situated in the eastern part of Istanbul. Precisely, it is located in an area called Pendik, adjacent to the Tuzla area.

Viewing the address of Sabiha Gokcen Airport in Istanbul on the map

Introduction and History of Sabiha Gokcen Airport

Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (ISG) was established in collaboration with three major and reputable companies: Limak Holding (LIMAK), GMR Infrastructure Limited (GMR) of Malaysia, and Malaysia Airports Holding Berhad (MAHB). Today, it has become one of the leading and fastest-growing airports in the world.

This airport was created to alleviate the capacity shortage at Ataturk Airport and to meet the growing needs of air transportation in the region. The airport’s name was chosen in honor of Sabiha Gokcen, the world’s first female fighter pilot.

• Infrastructure development
• Modern facilities
• Rapid growth
• Focus on security
• Commitment to sustainable development

Ultimately, Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport, with its significant growth and developments in recent years, has become not only an important economic and transportation hub for Turkey but also a prominent symbol in the transportation industry. These successes are the result of continuous efforts to improve services, safety, and passenger experience, as well as successful collaborations with international partners.

Terminals of Sabiha Gokcen Airport in Istanbul

Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen International Airport in Turkey has various terminals for domestic and international passengers. This airport, considered an air hub due to increasing air traffic in the region and the need to expand air transportation infrastructure, meets a range of needs with its diverse services, including facilities related to flights, shopping, comfort, and more.

Guide to the Terminals at Sabiha Gokcen Airport

Guide to the Arrival Hall / Guide to the Departure Hall / Guide to the Gates

Three-dimensional Viewing of Various Sections of Istanbul Airport

Flight Information for Terminals at Sabiha Gökçen Airport in Istanbul

Sabiha Gökçen Airport in Istanbul (Sabiha Gökçen) utilizes various terminals for flight operations. As one of the busiest airports in Turkey, it hosts numerous domestic and international flights. The flight information available at the terminals includes:

• Domestic flights
• International flights
• Transit and stopover passengers
• Security and regulations

For access to more up-to-date and accurate information, such as flight schedules, flight statuses, active airlines, and facilities available at each terminal, it is recommended that passengers and users refer to the v or mobile applications related to airports. Additionally, it may be possible to use the airport’s telephone information services.

List of Domestic and International Flight Information at Sabiha Gökçen Airport in Istanbul

Facilities at Sabiha Gökçen Airport in Istanbul

This airport, known for its diverse facilities and services, stands as one of the modern airports in the region. Its facilities are categorized into three groups: facilities before entering the transit hall, facilities in the transit hall, and facilities specifically for arriving passengers.

Guide to Activating Internet at Sabiha Gökçen Airport in Istanbul

Sabiha Gökçen Airport is one of those airports that try to always keep its passengers satisfied with its facilities and services. One of the best services it offers to passengers is the use of free internet. Many passengers using Sabiha Gökçen Airport are traveling from European countries to destinations in the Middle East and vice versa, and Istanbul is not their final destination. Therefore, it’s natural for them to spend long hours at the airport.

The free internet at Sabiha Gökçen Airport is one of the best services that helps pass the waiting times at the airport and stay in touch with friends and family. To use the free internet at Sabiha Gökçen Airport, simply activate the Wi-Fi on your mobile phone and select the Free Internet option. Then enter your mobile number and, after receiving the internet code sent to you, enjoy one hour of free internet at Sabiha Gökçen Airport.

Connection via Application

The second method is to install the Sabiha Gökçen application on your mobile phone and use the Free Internet services. If you are unable to use any of the above methods, go to the Sabiha Gökçen Airport information desk and ask them to activate the free internet on your phone. *Pay attention to the signs and banners in the airport. Many of Sabiha Gökçen’s services, including how to use the free internet, are fully explained on the banners and signs.

Staying in Capsule Cabins

Hotel services for short rests between flights are one of the best amenities offered to passengers at Sabiha Gökçen Airport. After receiving your boarding pass and entering the transit hall, you will have various options for spending time on your flight. You can shop at the airport’s duty-free stores, enjoy your favorite food and drinks, engage in conversations with fellow travelers, or enjoy interactions with passengers from different nationalities around the world.
However, if you need a short rest, a refreshing shower, or a nap to rejuvenate, the capsule hotels in the transit hall of Sabiha Gökçen Airport are the best choice.
These hotels are located at the beginning of the transit hall, and their fees are charged per hour, including services like a bed, luggage storage, TV, coffee, and internet. The cost of resting in the capsule hotels at Sabiha Gökçen Airport is in euros and for one hour only, but you can extend your resting hours.
Another point is that not all these hotels are capsule cabins. You can also use separate rooms for rest, which will cost more.

Self-Check-in at Sabiha Gökçen Airport

Standing in long queues for boarding passes, especially in an airport like Sabiha Gökçen that welcomes passengers of all nationalities to numerous global destinations, can be a nightmare understood only by frequent travelers. During peak travel times, standing in these long lines is more bothersome than ever.

Thanks to the services at Sabiha Gökçen, there’s no longer a need to stand in long queues for boarding passes. besides the reception counters, a large number of kiosks for boarding pass collection are available at the airport. These kiosks are very easy to use; just place the details page of your passport on the scanner and receive your boarding pass. It’s that simple!

Online Reservation for Capsule Cabins

Self-Check-In at Sabiha Gökçen Airport

standing in long queues to get boarding passes, especially at an airport like Sabiha Gökçen which accommodates passengers from all nationalities and to numerous countries around the world, can feel like a nightmare only frequent travelers understand. During peak travel times, standing in these long lines is even more bothersome.

Services at Sabiha Gökçen, there is no longer a need to stand in long queues for boarding passes. In addition to reception counters, a large number of kiosks for obtaining boarding passes have been installed at the airport. Using these kiosks is very easy; you simply place the details page of your passport on the scanner and receive your boarding pass. It’s that simple!

CIP Lounge at Sabiha Gökçen Airport

Overlooking the Sabiha Gökçen International Airport in Istanbul, there are three large lounges designed with inspiration from ancient sails.

For our guests, light snacks and delicious beverages are available in the CIP lounge, a place where they can relax in a comfortable environment. Quick access to the internet, computer terminals, newspapers, monthly magazines, and television with major international channels are also available.

PLAZA PREMIUM hall

PLAZA PREMIUM Lounge for Domestic/International Departures.

In this lounge, the Plaza Premium Lounge staff warmly greet passengers of both domestic and international departure terminals. Regardless of the airline or travel class they are flying, the Plaza Premium Lounge provides superb services and amenities, ensuring a remarkable experience for every traveler.

In the Plaza Premium Lounge, you can enjoy your favorite beverage, savor our recommended dishes, and stay updated with the latest news using the free Wi-Fi service. Relax in the seating areas with stunning views, away from the hustle and bustle, while waiting for your flight.

Transportation at Sabiha Gökçen Airport in Istanbul

Geographically, Sabiha Gökçen International Airport in Istanbul is located in Pendik/Kurtköy, 40 kilometers from Kadıköy, 12 kilometers from downtown Pendik, and 50 kilometers from Taksim.

Easily accessible by taxi or car via the TEM highway connection, you can reach Sabiha Gökçen Airport conveniently. At the airport, parking services are available for your vehicle. Other ways to reach our airport include public buses, shuttles, and metro lines.
Once at the airport, you also have the option to rent a car.

Accessing the Airport by Bus

Municipal buses (IETT) operate regularly on a fixed route from Halkalı, Mecidiyekoy, and Atatürk Airport stations. Additionally, Havabus buses offer luxury transportation services for passengers and luggage on a regular fixed route from Taksim.

Passengers traveling from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Istanbul Airport can use the Havabus Pendik shuttle, which picks up passengers across the terminal entrances from the open-air parking area at the airport.

For detailed information about Havabus shuttle services, please visit the HAVBUS website.

Taxi Service at Sabiha Gökçen Airport

A 24-hour taxi service is available at Sabiha Gokcen International Airport in Istanbul.

For more information and contact, please visit the website.

Metro Route from the City to Sabiha Gökçen Airport and Vice Versa

The Sabiha Gökçen Airport metro has recently been launched. Officially called the M4 metro line, it operates between Kadıköy and Sabiha Gökçen Airport.

The airport metro has 3 entrances: Entrance No. 1 for the Domestic Terminal CIP Lounge and Parking, Entrance No. 2 for the Sabiha Gökçen Airport Hotel, and Entrance No. 3 for the Terminal.

You can use the M4 Kadıköy-Sabiha Gökçen Airport metro line to connect to the following transportation lines:

• T3 Kadikoy – Moda Tram, ferries, and sea lines from Kadikoy station,
• Marmaray from Ayrılık Çeşmesi station,
• Metrobus from Ünalan station,
• High-speed train station in Pendik via IETT buses from Pendik station.

For more information, please visit the Istanbul Metro website.

Download the PDF Istanbul metro map

Parking at Sabiha Gökçen Airport

At Sabiha Gökçen Airport, there are several parking options available for passengers’ vehicles. Keep in mind that the parking fee subscription must be completed before your flight. Otherwise, the daily parking rate will be applied. The subscription process must be completed within 1 hour of entering the parking area.

When you arrive at Sabiha Gökçen Airport in your car, don’t waste time looking for a parking spot. You can leave your car at one of the valet points in front of the departure terminal and the THY CIP building (Lounge Istanbul).

The cost for services is an additional 200 Turkish Lira to your parking fee.

Holders of Garanti BBVA bank cards can use the parking service in front of the THY domestic lounge and benefit from reduced parking fees. An additional service fee of 200 Turkish Lira will be added to the parking cost.

It is noteworthy that

Parking in front of the terminal is not allowed. Use the designated parking facilities. Illegally parked vehicles will be towed and drivers fined. Parking outside the designated areas is also prohibited.

istanbul travel guide

Sabiha Gökçen Airport Hotel

The Sabiha Gökçen Airport Hotel is located within the passenger terminal area and can be reached in just 3 minutes with the hotel’s transfer service. After exiting the terminal, the hotel transfer is located on your right. You can also call the airport transportation department to reach the hotel in the shortest possible time. The airport hotel features a boutique hotel style, with all architectural details considered to ensure our guests feel at home and away from the airport atmosphere.

Room amenities include a king bed or two separate beds, a sitting area, and a mini-bar • 26 square meter room • king size bed or two separate beds • key card system • telephone • 24-hour room service • hair dryer • sitting area • mini-bar • LCD TV, internet, and more…

The four-story, 128-room Sabiha Gokcen Airport Hotel serves airline crew, transport personnel, and other travelers.

Sabiha Airport hotel reservation

Tourism Services at Sabiha Gökçen Airport in Istanbul

Sabiha Gökçen International Airport in Istanbul, Turkey, as a key air transport hub, offers a variety of tourism services that can make the travel experience to Istanbul easy and memorable for travelers.

Below are some common tourism services that you might find at this airport:

Tourist Information Counters: These guides help tourists familiarize themselves with the basics of traveling in Istanbul, including information on tourist attractions, public transportation, events and festivals, and safety tips.

• Hotel Reservations: Many airports, including Sabiha Gökçen, offer hotel booking services, allowing travelers to quickly and conveniently find suitable accommodations for their stay.
• Tourist Tours and Recreational Activities: There may be specific counters offering various types of tours, including urban, historical, and cultural tours, and even adventurous activities like paragliding and boating.
• SIM Cards and Internet Packages for Mobile Phones: For tourists who want to stay connected and use online map and guidance services purchasing a local SIM card with an internet package can be very helpful.

These services may vary depending on current conditions and airport policies, so it’s always best to check before traveling.

Online Reservation of Tourism Services at the Airport

Souvenir Shopping at Istanbul Airport

The airports in Istanbul, including Istanbul Airport (Istanbul Airport) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (Sabiha Gökçen International Airport), offer a plethora of opportunities for travelers to purchase souvenirs and local products. These airports, with a variety of shops and stores, provide options for buying traditional Turkish gifts and other merchandise.

• Duty-Free Shops: These stores offer a wide range of goods including perfumes, cosmetics, chocolates, alcoholic beverages, cigarettes, and luxury brand products tax-free. Some unique and local products might also be available.
• Local Souvenir and Handicraft Shops: These shops offer products like hand-woven carpets, traditional pottery, unique jewelry, Turkish traditional clothes, and other artistic and handicraft items that reflect Turkish culture.
• Food Stores: Local and traditional food products such as baklava, Turkish delight (lokum), Rahat lokum, olives, olive oil, spices, and tea can be suitable gifts to take home. These products are usually packaged beautifully and are travel-friendly.
• Bookstores and Media Shops: For those interested in Turkish culture and history, art books, travel guides, cookbooks focusing on Turkish cuisine, and even local music can be appealing.
• Fashion and Apparel Shops: International and local brand stores offering a variety of fashion and clothing. Some of these stores may have special discounts and offers.

Travelers should be aware that prices at the airport might be slightly higher compared to outside due to the typically high rental costs of airport shops. However, due to convenience and accessibility, buying souvenirs at the airport can be a suitable option for tourists with busy schedules.

Distance from the Airport to Key City Centers

• The distance from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Taksim Square is approximately 40 kilometers, and the journey time is about 36 minutes.
• The distance from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to the new Istanbul Airport is approximately 80 kilometers, and the journey time is about 1 hour.
• The distance from Sabiha Gökçen Airport to Büyükçekmece is approximately 83 kilometers, and the journey time is about 1 hour.

You are now familiar with Sabiha Gökçen Airport and its facilities in Istanbul. We have also discussed the distance of this airport to some key centers. If you have visited this airport during your trip to Istanbul or have transit travel experience at this airport, please share your thoughts with us in the comments section.

Frequently Asked Questions