What Are the Istanbul Airport Codes?

✈️ What Are the Istanbul Airport Codes? A Complete Travel Guide for Visitors

Planning a trip to Istanbul and wondering what the Istanbul Airport Codes? Whether you’re booking flights, arranging airport transfers, or just want to make sure you land at the right airport, this quick guide will help you understand the Istanbul airport codes used in travel tickets and booking platforms.

🛫 How Many Airports Are There in Istanbul?

Istanbul, one of the busiest and most visited cities in the world, is served by two major international airports:

1. Istanbul Airport (IST)

2. Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW)

Each has a unique airport code, location, and purpose—knowing the difference can save you time and confusion when traveling.

🏙️ What Is the for Istanbul Airport Code (IST)?

• Name: Istanbul Airport

• IATA Code: IST

• Location: Arnavutköy district, European side of Istanbul

• Opened: 2018 (replacing Atatürk Airport for international flights)

IST is the main international airport in Turkey and one of the largest in the world. Most major international airlines land here, including Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Lufthansa, and Qatar Airways. It’s the go-to airport for long-haul and intercontinental travel.

📌 Tip: If you’re staying in central Istanbul (Taksim, Sultanahmet, Şişli), Istanbul Airport (IST) is your closest large hub.

🌉 What Is the Code for Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW)?

• Name: Sabiha Gökçen International Airport

• IATA Code: SAW

• Location: Pendik district, Asian side of Istanbul

• Opened: 2001

SAW is popular with low-cost carriers like Pegasus Airlines and AnadoluJet. It also serves international flights to Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. SAW is ideal if you’re staying on the Asian side of Istanbul or want to avoid the crowds at IST.

📌 Tip: For budget travel or flights within Turkey and nearby countries, SAW is often more economical.

🔍 Why Is Knowing Istanbul Airport Codes Important?

• ✅ To avoid arriving at the wrong airport

• ✅ For easier airport transfers and navigation

• ✅ To book the correct transportation (taxis, shuttles, or Istanbul Airport Havaist buses)

• ✅ To save time and reduce travel stress

Whether you fly into IST or SAW, Istanbul offers great connectivity to the city through metro lines, express buses, and taxis.

🚖 How Do I Get from the Airport to Istanbul City Center?

• From IST (Istanbul Airport): Use the Havaist shuttle buses, Istanbul Airport Metro Line (M11), or taxis. Travel time to central Istanbul is around 40–60 minutes.

• From SAW (Sabiha Gökçen): Use Havabus, IETT buses, or taxis. Travel to the city center takes 60–90 minutes, depending on traffic.

📌 Summary: Istanbul Airport Codes at a Glance

If you’re flying to Istanbul soon, double-check the airport code on your ticket — and enjoy your trip to this incredible city bridging two continents!