As the secondary international hub of Istanbul, Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) is the vital pulse of the city's Asian side. With a modern terminal and a rapidly expanding transport network, reaching the airport is now more effortless than ever. This guide explores all alternatives, from public transit to Elite VIP transfers.
Where is Sabiha Gökçen Airport?
Sabiha Gökçen is located in the Pendik district on the Asian side of Istanbul. It is approximately 30 km from Kadıköy and 45 km from Taksim. While the Northern Marmara Motorway connection ensures a smoother drive, Istanbul's traffic should always be factored into your schedule. The airport is also strategically close to the industrial hubs of Kocaeli and Gebze.
Sabiha Gökçen Airport via Metro
The fastest and most budget-friendly way to reach the airport is the M4 Kadıköy - Sabiha Gökçen Metro Line. It is the most reliable choice for travelers wanting to avoid traffic congestion.
- Route: Departs from Kadıköy Square; passing through key hubs like Ayrılık Çeşmesi (Marmaray connection) and Ünalan (Metrobus connection), it arrives directly inside the terminal.
- Duration: Approximately 50 minutes from Kadıköy to the airport.
Havabus and Havaist Shuttle Services
For passengers with heavy luggage seeking a comfortable seat, airport shuttles are ideal. Regular services run from both the European and Asian sides.
Havabus Routes
- Taksim - SAW: Departs from in front of the Taksim Divan Hotel, passing through Beşiktaş.
- Kadıköy - SAW: Departs from the Kadıköy Pier IETT stops.
Airport-to-Airport Transfer (Havaist)
If you are transferring between Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen (SAW), the HVİST-13 line is your best option. The journey takes 90–120 minutes depending on the city’s traffic.
Public Buses (IETT)
For those looking for the most economical option, IETT operates several lines. The most frequent routes include:
Destina VIP Transfer: A Prestigious Voyage
Avoid the crowds and the stress of carrying heavy suitcases. Destina VIP Transfer offers a first-class experience for business travelers and families.
Why Choose Destina VIP?
- Personalized Meet & Greet at the gate.
- Luxury Mercedes Vito fleet with Wi-Fi & refreshments.
- Fixed Price Guarantee – No hidden tolls or fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the metro run 24 hours?
The M4 line runs from 06:00 to 00:00 on weekdays. However, on weekends (Friday night to Sunday night), it operates 24 hours as part of the Night Metro service.
How early should I leave to catch my flight?
For domestic flights, we recommend leaving 3 hours prior; for international flights, 4 hours is advised due to potential traffic and security checks.