What Is the Code for Sabiha Airport?

✈️ What Is the Code for Sabiha Airport? A Traveler’s Guide to Istanbul’s Asian-Side Hub

Are you flying to Istanbul and wondering what airport code “SAW” means? If your flight doesn’t land at Istanbul Airport (IST), chances are you’re arriving at Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) — the city’s second major airport, located on the Asian side. Here’s everything you need to know before you land!

📍 Where Is Sabiha Gökçen Airport Located?

• IATA Code: SAW

• Location: Pendik district, Asian side of Istanbul

• Distance to City Center: About 45 km (28 miles) from Sultanahmet or Taksim

• Opened: 2001

• Named After: Sabiha Gökçen, the world’s first female fighter pilot and adopted daughter of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk

Sabiha Gökçen Airport is a fast-growing hub, especially popular among budget airlines and domestic travelers.

🛫 Which Airlines Use SAW?

SAW is the primary base for Pegasus Airlines, and it’s also served by:

• AnadoluJet

• AJet (formerly THY Anadolu)

• Qatar Airways

• Flynas

• Air Arabia

• Wizz Air

• And many European and Gulf carriers

This airport is often used for short-haul international flights to Europe, the Middle East, Central Asia, and many cities within Turkey.

💸 Why Fly Through Sabiha Gökçen (SAW)?

• ✅ Affordable flight tickets with low-cost carriers

• ✅ Easier and less crowded than IST

• ✅ Great for travelers staying on the Asian side of Istanbul

• ✅ Good connectivity to Bursa, Gebze, and Yalova by bus or ferry

If you’re traveling on a budget or exploring cities beyond Istanbul, SAW is a convenient gateway.

🚖 How to Get from SAW to Istanbul City Center?

Sabiha Gökçen doesn’t have a metro line (yet), but you still have plenty of transport options:

• Havabus Shuttle – To Taksim or Kadıköy (runs every 30–45 minutes)

• IETT Buses – Public buses to various parts of Istanbul

• Taxi – 45–90 minutes to city center depending on traffic

• Private transfer – Available via airport apps or booking platforms

• Marmaray + Bus Combo – If you want a more budget-friendly route

🚦 Travel Tip: Leave extra time during rush hours, as traffic can be heavy between SAW and central districts.

🧳 Facilities at Sabiha Gökçen Airport

• Duty-free shops

• Cafés & fast food (Starbucks, Burger King, local Turkish chains)

• Currency exchange & ATMs

• Luggage wrapping & storage

• Lounges for Pegasus and other airlines

• Car rental services

It’s a compact airport compared to IST, but still offers a comfortable experience.

📌 Summary: Why SAW Matters for Your Istanbul Trip

If your flight says SAW, now you know what to expect! Whether you’re exploring the Asian side of Istanbul or heading toward other Turkish cities, Sabiha Gökçen International Airport is a reliable and growing option.