As one of the busiest international gateways in Istanbul, Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW) serves as a vital hub for travellers visiting Istanbul and its surrounding regions. Located on the Asian side of this iconic city, the airport is named after Sabiha Gökçen, the world’s first female fighter pilot, symbolising Turkey’s pioneering spirit. Opened in 2001, it has rapidly grown in importance, offering modern facilities, seamless services, and connections to destinations across the globe, primarily serving low-cost carriers. Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW) offers direct connections to several cities in the United Kingdom, Europe, and beyond. In the UK, flying to and from London Stansted Airport (STN), Manchester International Airport (MAN), Birmingham International Airport (BHX), and Edinburgh International Airport (EDI) via Pegasus Airlines and London Gatwick (LGW) via AnadoluJet. Within Europe, the airport serves a wide range of destinations, including the Greek capital via Athens Airport (ATH), Spanish royal city of Madrid (MAD), Italian fashion city Milan (MXP) and ancient city Rome (FCO), and French capital via bother Paris CDG and Paris ORY, largely operated by Pegasus Airlines and AnadoluJet. Beyond Europe, Sabiha Gökçen Airport connects to cities in the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia with key destinations including the United Arab Emirates cities of Dubai (DXB) and Sharjah (SHJ). 

Whether you’re exploring Istanbul’s vibrant cultural tapestry or embarking on a road trip through Turkey’s breathtaking landscapes, Sabiha Gökçen Airport is an excellent starting point. The airport is conveniently situated about 40 kilometres (25 miles) southeast of Istanbul’s historic city centre and is well-connected to major roads, making it ideal for car hire. From Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW), you can easily access the E-80 motorway, which forms part of the European route E80 and connects you to key locations in both Asia and Europe. For city explorers, the D100 highway is a primary route that leads directly into the city of Istanbul’s bustling urban core. Renting a car at offers freedom and flexibility, whether you’re discovering Istanbul’s wonders or venturing into the stunning Anatolian countryside. You can transit here to other cities in Turkey via domestic flights to Ankara’s Esenboğa Airport (ESB), Izmir’s Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB), Antalya Airport (AYT), Bodrum’s Milas-Bodrum Airport (BJV), Trabzon Airport (TZX), Kayseri’s Erkilet Airport (ASR), Saumsun Carsamba Airport (SZF) and Dalaman Airport (DLM). As an alternative to Sabiha Gökçen Airport, you may wish to consider Istanbul Airport (IST), on the city’s European side, around 47 kilometres (29 miles) northwest of the centre. One of the world’s largest and most advanced airports, this bigger airport handles a significant portion of Turkey’s international traffic. Both airports provide extensive car hire options, with leading rental agencies offering a wide range of vehicles to suit all needs.