How many Airports Are in Istanbul? A Thorough Guide to the City’s Air Travel Options

how many airport in istanbul

Istanbul stands at the crossroads of continents, cultures, and commerce, and its airports reflect the city’s role as a major global hub. For travellers and curious readers alike, the question “how many airport in istanbul” is a sensible starting point when planning a journey to or from this vibrant metropolis. The short answer is that Istanbul currently operates two active international airports, with a legacy airfield that formerly served mass passenger traffic. In practise, most travellers will interact with Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW). A third airfield, Atatürk International, once the beating heart of Istanbul’s air traffic, now operates in a greatly reduced capacity for cargo and other specialist aviation. In this article, we unpack the numbers, the locations, the services, and the practicalities so you can navigate Istanbul’s air links with confidence.

How many airports are in Istanbul? A concise overview

There are two active airports serving commercial passenger traffic in Istanbul today: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW). These two facilities together cover a broad spectrum of routes, from long-haul intercontinental flights to domestic connections within Türkiye, and they support a diverse mix of full-service carriers and low-cost airlines. Historically, Atatürk International Airport (ISL) dominated Istanbul’s air scene, but since 2019 it has been redirected away from regular passenger traffic and is now mostly used for cargo, general aviation, and some special operations. When people ask, “How many airports are in Istanbul for travellers in 2024 and beyond?” the clear answer is that IST and SAW form the backbone of the city’s aviation landscape, with Atatürk still present in memory and in certain non-passenger roles.

In detail: Istanbul Airport (IST) — the bold new gateway

Location, scale, and the vision behind IST

Istanbul Airport (IST) is situated in the NW outskirts of the city, near Arnavutköy, a location chosen to create a truly metropolitan international hub capable of handling tens of millions of passengers each year. Opened gradually in the late 2010s and towards full operation in the early 2020s, IST represents a bold shift from the older airport model. The site was designed from the ground up to be scalable, with a single, expansive terminal complex and a network of satellite facilities envisioned to grow as demand increases. For travellers, IST offers a modern, efficient, and somewhat stadium-like experience, with high ceilings, natural light, extensive retail and dining options, and state-of-the-art security and boarding facilities.

What it means for air travel

IST has the capacity to accommodate a large share of Istanbul’s international traffic, including long-haul and regional routes. The airport functions as the major hub for numerous Turkish carriers and a growing number of international airlines. In practical terms, this means more flight choices, improved frequency on popular itineraries, and better connections across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. For passengers, IST often offers modern lounges, efficient passport control, and quick transit times to the main city areas by road, rail, or dedicated airport shuttles.

Facilities and passenger experience at IST

Terminal facilities at IST are built around a generous, passenger-friendly layout. There are multiple shopping avenues, a wide range of dining options reflecting Turkish and international cuisine, and ample seating in secure zones. The layout prioritises intuitive wayfinding, with clear signage in multiple languages and a modern, minimalistic aesthetic. Beyond the passenger experience, IST has robust cargo operations, advanced customs processing, and efficient handling for both large-scale aircraft and smaller regional jets. If you value modern architecture, streamlined security, and a calm, modern environment, IST is designed to meet those expectations while keeping the focus on speed and efficiency for transfers and departures.

Getting to and from IST

IST is connected to central Istanbul and its districts by a combination of road, rail, and bus services. The most popular options for travellers include long-distance express coaches that run to major districts and tourist hubs, taxis and private transfers for door-to-door service, and shuttle options that connect IST with key hotel districts and business centres. Ongoing transport upgrades aim to enhance rail connectivity, with plans for rail lines and additional road corridors to ease the journey to and from the airport. For visitors, IST’s location on the European side of the city is convenient if your plans involve crossing into the historic peninsula or visiting the core business districts in Beyoğlu, Şişli, and Nişantaşı, while road traffic patterns can vary with the time of day and season.

Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) — Asia’s gateway to Istanbul

Where is SAW and what does it serve?

Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) sits on the Asian side of Istanbul, near Pendik and the coastline of the Marmara Sea. It has developed as a complementary hub to IST, serving a broad mix of international routes, including many from European and Eurasian destinations, as well as a substantial volume of domestic Turkey flights. SAW has earned a reputation for being the more budget-friendly option for certain routes and for serving a large network of low-cost carriers. The airport’s design supports a high throughput of passengers with a focus on efficient passenger handling and lower transfer times for certain itineraries.

Why travellers choose SAW

For some routes, SAW offers more convenient schedules or better prices, depending on the airline and the destination. Its location on the Asian side makes it a practical choice for travellers staying in or heading toward areas such as Kadıköy, Üsküdar, or the southern districts, as well as for those heading to destinations farther along the Asia Minor corridor. SAW also handles a strong volume of domestic Turkish flights, making it a practical base for exploring Türkiye beyond Istanbul, including the Aegean and Black Sea regions in a single trip.

Facilities and passenger experience at SAW

SAW provides a functional, efficient airport experience with a focus on quick processing times, straightforward wayfinding, and ample seating. The shopping and dining options reflect the Turkish and international mixes travellers expect at a busy international airport. The airport’s terminals are well-suited to handling peak travel periods and offer a range of services, from currency exchange and car hire to lounges and business facilities. For families, solo travellers, and business visitors alike, SAW presents a friendly, practical atmosphere designed to facilitate smooth onward journeys.

Connecting SAW to the city and beyond

Transport links to SAW emphasise ease of access for residents of the Asian side and travellers heading to the city’s eastern districts. The airport is served by a network of bus routes (including express coaches) and private transfer options, with road connections to major ring roads and arterial routes. Taxis and ride-hailing services provide flexible, door-to-door travel, while plans continue for more integrated rail options that could improve rail connectivity in the future. For many travellers, SAW represents a straightforward starting point for adventures across Türkiye and a convenient fly-in, fly-out option for domestic or regional itineraries.

Atatürk International Airport — the former heart of Istanbul’s air traffic

A look back and the present status

Atatürk International Airport (ISL) was once the primary international gateway to Istanbul and Türkiye, handling a spectacular amount of passenger traffic and acting as a major hub for many carriers. In recent years, however, passenger operations at ISL have been dramatically reduced as IST took on the bulk of international volumes. Since the mid to late 2010s, most international and domestic passenger traffic has shifted to IST, with ISL now repurposed primarily for cargo operations, maintenance, general aviation, and occasional non-commercial activity. For visitors researching “how many airport in istanbul” in a historic context, ISL represents the city’s aviation past rather than its present reality.

What ISL means for the travel landscape

The closure of regular passenger services at Atatürk has reshaped flight options and transfer flows in Istanbul. It has allowed IST to grow into a much larger, more capable hub while ISL continues to function as a strategic facility for cargo and specialised aviation needs. For travellers planning trips that require careful routing or those who have seen listings referencing ISL, it’s important to note that you will almost certainly be dealing with IST or SAW for passenger travel. The change also mirrors broader shifts in European and Mediterranean air travel, where major cities consolidate international services at one primary hub to streamline operations and enhance passenger experiences.

How many airport in istanbul — the practical difference for travellers

IST vs SAW: key differences that matter

When people ask “How many airports are there in Istanbul?”, the practical reality is that IST and SAW serve distinct but complementary roles. IST is the city’s dominant international hub, well-suited for long-haul flights, global connections, and a wide array of services. SAW, on the other hand, tends to attract a mix of regional, domestic, and budget-friendly international routes, often with shorter or cheaper market options depending on the airline and season. In practice, choosing between IST and SAW depends on your destination, airline, scheduling preferences, and where you are staying in Istanbul. If you arrive on a long-haul carrier or need broad international connections, IST is usually the most efficient choice. If you’re heading to other Turkish cities or catching a low-cost flight to Europe or the Middle East, SAW might offer a compelling option and occasional price advantages.

Flight planning tips to navigate the two airports

To ensure a smooth trip, consider the following when planning travel to or from Istanbul’s airports:

• Check the destination’s airport code and confirm which airport your airline uses for your route (IST or SAW).
• Allow ample transfer time if you’re changing airports within Istanbul, as road traffic and security checks can affect timings.
• Consider your hotel location and daily plans in the city. IST is closer to the central European side districts and business hubs, while SAW can be a practical option for destinations or routes connected to the Asian side or specific European markets.
• Explore airport transfer options in advance, such as Havaist buses, private shuttles, or pre-booked taxis, to avoid delays during peak hours.
• Be aware of seasonal variations in flight frequency and capacity, which can affect ticket prices and the number of available seats on IST and SAW.

Before you depart: planning and booking

When you are preparing for a trip to Istanbul, clarity about which airport you’ll use is essential. Check your airline’s guidance on terminal and check-in procedures, as IST and SAW have modern facilities and efficient security processes, but you’ll want to arrive with enough time to spare for passport control, baggage drop, and the security lanes. If you’re travelling with family or a larger party, look into airport services that offer families-friendly facilities and assistance points, as IST in particular is well equipped to handle high passenger volumes with efficiency.

During your stay: getting between IST/SAW and the city

Public transport, private transfers, and taxi services are the main modes of transport for airport transfers in Istanbul. Havaist buses serve major routes to central districts and popular tourist areas, offering a cost-effective option with comfortable seating and luggage space. Private transfers and taxis provide door-to-door convenience, particularly helpful if you’re navigating with heavy bags or in a time-sensitive schedule. If you prefer rail travel, keep an eye on updates for future rail links to IST and SAW, as ongoing infrastructure projects aim to improve speed and convenience for city centre commutes and longer intercity journeys.

What to know about security, luggage, and comfort

Both IST and SAW adhere to international security standards with clear signage, multilingual staff, and well-organised queuing systems. Luggage allowances will vary by airline and route, so check your ticket details and airline policy before you travel. Both airports host a range of dining and shopping options, including traditional Turkish cuisine and international favourites, so you can plan a light bite or a full meal depending on your layover. Lounges abound at IST due to its role as the main hub, and SAW offers comfortable lounge facilities for premium passengers and eligible travellers.

Is Atatürk Airport still in operation for passenger flights?

Passenger operations at Atatürk International Airport have largely ceased since the introduction of Istanbul Airport and the shift of traffic to IST. The airport now primarily serves cargo, maintenance, and certain specialised aviation activities. If you see references to ISL or ISL logistics in schedules, they are typically referring to cargo operations rather than passenger service.

Which airport should I choose for a given destination?

For most international connections and wide-route coverage, IST is the more convenient option, particularly if you are staying in or near the European side of Istanbul. If your itinerary involves domestic Türkiye travel or a destination commonly served by low-cost carriers from SAW, SAW could offer better prices or schedules. Always compare flight times, connections, baggage policies, and total travel time to see which airport aligns best with your plans.

How many airport in istanbul do I need to know for a city break?

For a standard city break, two airports cover the vast majority of itineraries: Istanbul Airport (IST) for most international and long-haul connections, and Sabiha Gökçen International (SAW) for a substantial portion of European and domestic routes. The third airfield, Atatürk, remains a footnote in contemporary travel plans, primarily relevant for historical context or specialised cargo operations.

In summary, Istanbul is served by two active airports for passenger traffic: Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW). The older Atatürk International Airport no longer handles regular passenger flights but remains a part of the city’s aviation heritage and cargo operations. For travellers, IST is the principal gateway for most international travel and for connecting to many continents, while SAW serves a robust mix of European, Middle Eastern, and domestic routes with competitive options for certain itineraries. Understanding the distinction between IST and SAW can help you plan your journey more efficiently, selecting the airport that best matches your destination, airline, and preferred travel experience. With IST and SAW working together, Istanbul maintains a dynamic, resilient aviation footprint that supports millions of passengers each year and keeps the city well connected to the wider world.

Additional resources for travellers

To further assist planning, consider consulting airline websites for terminal and check-in details, as well as official IST and SAW pages for up-to-date information on facilities, services, and transport links. Travel forums, city guides, and reputable travel blogs can also provide practical tips on navigating Istanbul’s airports based on current traffic patterns and seasonal variations. Whether you are arriving for business, tourism, or a long-awaited return visit, understanding how many airport in istanbul and what each one offers will help you navigate the city with confidence and ease.