Sabiha Gökçen Airport: Istanbul's Other Air Transportation Hub

Sabiha Gökçen Airport is one of Turkey's busiest airports, playing a significant role in Istanbul's international air transportation. It has become a center for low-cost airlines.

Location and Access

Sabiha Gökçen Airport is located on the Asian side of Istanbul, in the Pendik district. Its strategic position facilitates easy access:

• Distance to City Center: Approximately 50 km from Taksim Square.
• Transportation Options:
  • Airport Buses: Regular services to various points in the city.
  • Metro: Connection to the city center via the M4 line.
  • Taxis and private car options are available.
  • Parking: A spacious parking area is provided for passengers.

Airport Features and Capacity

Sabiha Gökçen Airport stands out due to its size and capacity:

• Terminal Building: Approximately 100,000 square meters in size.
• Passenger Capacity: Can serve up to 35 million passengers annually.
• Runways: Currently has one main runway, with expansion plans in progress.
• Aircraft Capacity: Can accommodate up to 30 aircraft simultaneously.
• Duty-Free Area: Features various duty-free shops.

Flight Destinations and Airlines

Sabiha Gökçen Airport has a broad flight network:

• Domestic Flights: Regular services to many major cities in Turkey.
• International Flights:
  • Europe: Major cities such as London, Berlin, and Rome.
  • Middle East: Destinations like Dubai and Doha.
  • Asia: Cities like Kuala Lumpur and Baku.
• Airlines:
  • Pegasus Airlines (main hub)
  • AnadoluJet
  • Wizz Air
  • Ryanair, among others.

Global Position and Importance

Sabiha Gökçen Airport holds an important position in air transportation due to its geographical location:

• East-West Bridge: Strengthens Turkey's role as a connector between Europe and Asia.
• Competitive Edge: Provides a viable alternative for low-cost carriers.
• Economic Impact: Contributes significantly to the local economy.
• Job Opportunities: Creates numerous employment opportunities.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Features

Sabiha Gökçen Airport is notable for its environmentally friendly characteristics:

• Energy Efficiency: Utilizes smart systems for energy savings.
• Waste Management: Advanced systems to minimize environmental pollution.
• Green Areas: Surrounding green spaces are available.

Passenger Experience and Services

Sabiha Gökçen Airport aims to provide a comfortable travel experience:

• Shopping: Various brands are available in the duty-free area.
• Dining: Restaurants offering both local and international cuisine.
• Lounge Services: Lounges available for different airlines.
• Children’s Play Areas: Special spaces designed for families.
• Health Services: A 24/7 health center is available.

Technological Innovations

Sabiha Gökçen Airport incorporates several technological advancements:

• Biometric Systems: Facial recognition technology for quick passage.
• Smart Baggage Systems: Advanced baggage tracking systems to minimize lost luggage risk.
• Mobile App: A comprehensive mobile app to enhance the airport experience.

Future Plans and Expansion

Sabiha Gökçen Airport is preparing for the future with continuous development and growth plans:

• Capacity Increase: Goals to enhance annual passenger capacity.
• Transportation Links: New projects planned to improve connectivity.
• Technological Investments: Ongoing investments in smart systems and automation.

Sabiha Gökçen Airport is a vital air transportation hub in Istanbul, playing a significant role in both domestic and international aviation. With a focus on passenger experience, eco-friendly features, and technological innovations, it is set to be a model for future airports.