How Many Airports Are There in Istanbul? A Quick Guide

The quick answer: there are two operating airports in Istanbul: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International (SAW).

Istanbul Airport (IST) sits on the European side, in the Arnavutköy district, northwest of the city center, and handles the majority of international and intercontinental traffic. Sabiha Gökçen (SAW) lies on the Asian side and serves a strong mix of regional and domestic flights, with expanding international connections that support a broader network. Each airport serves different traveler segments and flight types.

Both airports offer modern facilities and a full range of services, from shopping options to lounges, Wi‑Fi, and family zones. IST operates a large, purpose-built terminal network designed to handle approximately 200 million passengers per year after full expansion, while SAW focuses on efficiency for regional routes and quick transfers with facilities geared to budget and business travelers alike.

Ground access forms a crucial part of the travel plan: a well-integrated network of metro lines, buses, and private shuttles connects both airports to major districts. IST links to the city by rail and road, with a growing metro corridor completing a seamless channel to central neighborhoods; SAW offers reliable buses and local routes that connect to the city’s transit network. If you prefer budget travel, check HAVAIST and municipal bus options, and compare taxi fares across neighborhoods before you land.

For a quick decision: if your itinerary centers on European attractions, IST is the proactive choice; if you need lower fares or easier access to the Asian side, SAW is convenient. Check iata codes IST and SAW while booking and choose a flight and a terminal that match your economy and development plans in the city. Both airports are part of Istanbul’s regional growth, and they support a diversified traveler base. This is part of the world travel network.

Counting Istanbul’s Airports: IST and SAW Overview

Choose IST for international and long-haul travel; SAW for domestic and budget flights. The iata code for Istanbul Airport is ist.

IST sits on the European side, about 40 km from central Istanbul, and is expanding to handle approximately 60–70 million passengers annually.

Expansions include new terminals and cargo facilities to handle more routes and boost logistics capacity. In the terminal zones, amenities abound with lounges, dining, and shops to make your time enjoyable. Transportation options include taxi, Havabuses, and private transfer; a metro link is under development to connect more directly with the city. This hub serves a broad network of international and domestic operations, cater to diverse passenger needs, and might create more jobs in aviation and hospitality sectors.

SAW sits on the Asian side, in Pendik, about 35–40 km from central districts, and focuses on domestic flights and low-cost international routes.

Budget carriers shape SAW’s route map, with frequent flights to major Turkish cities and a growing set of low-cost international hops. Expansions and new facilities aim to cater to more passengers and improve passenger experience, with shops and eateries designed for quick turnover. Transportation options include taxi, Havabuses, and private transfers; traffic around the airport can be heavy, so plan with a driver if needed. SAW handles approximately 25–30 million passengers annually and plays a key role in tourism growth on the Asian side, creating local jobs.

Bottom line: IST offers a broad network of routes and global connectivity, while SAW delivers cost-effective domestic travel and growing low-cost international access. Align your choice with your itinerary, baggage needs, and timing to enjoy a smoother journey.

Accessibility and Location: Getting to and from IST and SAW

Fly into IST for the quickest access to the northwest and European core of Istanbul. The airport sits about 40 km northwest of central Istanbul and offers a large, well‑planned terminal with facilities, services, and a broad range of shops. Its IATA code is IST, it handles both domestic and international routes, and the world’s travelers consistently rate it for connectivity. The once-famous Atatürk (atatürk) site now serves no commercial traffic, so IST is the primary hub for most connections.

From IST, the most convenient options are a direct Havaist bus (low-cost) or a taxi. In light traffic, expect 40–60 minutes to central districts such as Taksim or Beşiktaş; in peak hours, 60–90 minutes is common. Pre‑booked private transfers or car rentals also streamline travel, and all choices keep you within a short drive of major shopping districts and business zones that IST serves with a bustling mix of international and domestic travelers.

SAW, or Sabiha Gökçen International, sits on the Asian side and serves a strong domestic and low-cost international network. It complements IST by offering convenient access to the Asian neighborhoods and coastal suburbs. Typical door‑to‑door travel to central areas ranges from 60 to 90 minutes, depending on traffic. Havaist and other bus options connect SAW to Kadıköy, Beşiktaş, and Taksim, providing a reliable, convenient link for travelers who plan to explore the Asian and European sides in one trip.

Connectivity at both airports prioritizes ease of travel: you’ll find a broad range of services, including lounges, Wi‑Fi, currency services, and ample baggage handling for domestic, international, and shopping trips. IST and SAW host numerous shops, dining outlets, and duty‑free options that help you enjoy a smooth start or finish to your travel. The planning and development of rail and road links around both airports aim to shorten transfer times and improve access to key destinations across the city.

Practical tips: check the IATA codes (IST and SAW) on your ticket and signage to confirm your terminal and gate, as both airports have separate domestic and international sections within their facilities. For a more economical option, choose official airport shuttles (low-cost) when possible and pair them with a taxi or rideshare for the final leg. If you have a tight connection, allocate extra time during peak hours, especially for international transfers, and consider pre‑booking a transfer to avoid last‑mile delays. More planning, fewer delays, and a smoother journey across Bosnia? No–across Istanbul. Enjoy the shopping, the convenient services, and the bustling atmosphere that make Istanbul’s airports a strong starting point for every travel itinerary.

Airlines, Destinations, and Flight Options at Istanbul Airports

Choose Istanbul Airport (IST) for the broadest network and most flight options, especially if you seek long-haul and low-cost travel. IST handles the majority of international traffic and serves as the main hub for growth across the region.

Airlines and codes: IST hosts Turkish Airlines alongside a wide mix of international carriers, while pegasus operates as the leading low-cost option with direct links to Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. In booking systems, routes appear under airport codes IST and SAW, with most codes and connections shown clearly to reflect carrier partnerships and seasonal schedules. Ground handling teams at IST and SAW manage multiple airlines each day, ensuring smooth transfers even during peak traffic periods.

Destinations and reach: IST connects to approximately 350 destinations across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa, supported by a growing network of regional and long-haul services. Most international links concentrate in Europe and the Gulf, while multiple Turkish and regional carriers offer domestic hops to major cities such as Ankara and Izmir. SAW maintains a solid portfolio of routes to regional hubs and select European capitals, making it a practical option for some domestic and short-haul trips. The two airports together support ongoing growth and traffic diversification.

Flight options and facilities: IST features a expansive, integrated terminal with numerous facilities, duty-free areas, and comprehensive shops for shopping on layovers. The airport regularly opens new terminals sections during development phases and continues to expand infrastructure to handle rising passenger volumes. Planned expansions focus on increasing check-in counters, security lanes, and bag-drop zones to streamline traffic flow. For low-cost travelers, Pegasus and other carriers provide competitive options on multiple European routes, with codes that help locate direct or single-stop connections.

Ground transport and accessibility: IST offers a robust range of ground options, including city-center buses and airport shuttles that handle large crowds efficiently. A dedicated buses network and rail links connect to central districts and suburban areas, making transfers straightforward for some travelers and seamless for most. SAW also provides reliable ground transport options, with shops, facilities, and customs services designed to support traffic flow during peak hours.

Practical guidance for travelers seeking value: check both IST and SAW for the best price/route combination, especially if you are seeking regional connections or short-haul growth opportunities. For low-cost journeys, compare Pegasus (PC) fares with full-service carriers, noting codes and luggage allowances. Plan for transfer times between terminals if your itinerary involves different airports, and factor in infrastructure changes during development periods. If you have a connection to a regional city, consider a bus or domestic flight via SAW to minimize delays and optimize overall travel time.

Istanbul Airport Codes, Terminals, and Practical Arrival Details

Use IST, the IATA code for Istanbul Airport, and head to the main arrivals hall where baggage reclaim and immigration are clearly signed. The airport is located on the European side, outside central Istanbul, with a bustling curb for taxis and a driver desk to arrange private transfers if you prefer a reserved ride. Inside, staff help you find the fastest route to your next step, and clear boards display flight information and gate numbers.

The main terminal serves multiple concourses and a wide array of shops and services, designed for both international and domestic traffic. Those arriving on international flights clear immigration at the main hall area, while domestic arrivals head straight to baggage reclaim before exiting. The planned layout emphasizes extensive shopping, from luxury brands to regional Turkish shops, with duty-free outlets and cafés that cater to travelers during layovers. Signage in Turkish and English makes navigation easy, and multiple information desks help with codes, transfer options, and local transport.

Practical arrival tips: buses operate from IST to central districts, with the large Havaist network and IETT services offering affordable routes to major neighborhoods; taxis and private cars are available at the main curb. If you have luggage, use the main baggage reclaim area and head to the clearly marked exit where you can hail a driver or book a ride. The outer passenger areas feature dining, shopping, and activity options, including luxury shopping and Turkish cafés. For travelers planning onward flights, check the flight code boards at the gate areas to confirm your next departure, and keep a map handy to avoid backtracking. The airport’s regional connections support many jobs in security, retail, and hospitality, making the hub busy with activity while you wait for the next flight. The bus network also reaches the Asian side for regional travel.

Facilities and Traveler Experience: Services, Lounges, and On-Site Amenities

Recommendation: Get lounge access during a long layover to enjoy meals, work zones, and showers while you move through the airport.

IST supports smooth logistics for domestic and international travel, backed by a solid infrastructure that handles peak activity and boosts Turkish tourism development. Clear wayfinding, fast Wi-Fi, and streamlined service flows help travelers move from check‑in to gate with minimal friction, while on‑site amenities keep you productive, comfortable, and focused on the next leg of travel.

Facilities that boost comfort and efficiency

• Free high‑speed Wi‑Fi across terminals plus abundant charging points for devices, so you can work or stream between flights.
• Concise security and fast‑lane options for eligible travelers, reducing wait times during peak hours.
• Dining and retail offer a broad mix of turkish bites and international options, including coffee shops and casual counters for quick fuel or a relaxed meal.
• Quiet zones and clean restrooms across zones, with practical showers in key areas to refresh between legs of travel.
• Family‑friendly spaces and accessible facilities to support travelers with kids, strollers, or mobility needs.
• Baggage storage, luggage trolleys, currency exchange counters, and on‑site information desks to help you handle logistics smoothly.

Lounges and on‑site relaxation options

• Turkish Airlines Lounge: accessed by Business Class travelers and eligible loyalty members, with separate sections for international and domestic flows, a varied buffet, comfortable seating, work zones, and showers.
• Independent and third‑party lounges: pay‑per‑use or status‑based access, offering meals, Wi‑Fi, power outlets, and quiet areas for focused work or rest.
• Quiet zones near lounges and gate areas ensure a calm environment for travelers needing a short pause between movements.

Location, routes, and infrastructure impact

• Airport location on the European side of Istanbul makes quick connections to major domestic routes to Ankara, Izmir, and Antalya, plus a wide international network to Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia.
• Strong logistics backbone supports cargo handling, ground transport, and passenger flow, contributing to better overall travel experience and sustained development in tourism.
• Infrastructure plans focus on capacity growth and smoother handling of peak activity, with ongoing improvements that keep pace with increasing traveler demand and business activity.