Public Transportation Guide to Sabiha Gökçen Airport
1. Havabüs (Airport Shuttle Bus)
Havabüs is an airport shuttle service that provides direct transportation to Sabiha Gökçen Airport from various locations in Istanbul. You can catch Havabüs buses from central points like Taksim and Kadıköy. The journey takes about 60 to 90 minutes, depending on traffic. Havabüs is one of the most comfortable ways to reach the airport by public transport, and the ticket prices are quite affordable.
2. IETT Buses
Istanbul’s IETT buses offer a comprehensive network throughout the city and provide direct routes to Sabiha Gökçen from several neighborhoods. Buses operate from areas such as Kadıköy, Pendik, and Bostancı. These buses are the most economical option for those traveling on a budget, although travel time can vary depending on traffic.
3. Metro and Bus Combination
While there is no direct metro line to Sabiha Gökçen Airport, the metro and bus combination is an efficient solution. You can take the M4 metro line to Tavşantepe Station, then transfer to a bus that heads directly to the airport. This option is particularly useful for avoiding traffic during peak hours.
4. IETT and Minibus Connections
Another option is to combine IETT buses and minibuses. From neighborhoods like Kadıköy and Bostancı, you can take a minibus to nearby areas and then transfer to an IETT bus. This method can be ideal, especially during off-peak hours when traffic is lighter.
5. Private Airport Shuttle Services
Some hotels and travel agencies offer private shuttle services to Sabiha Gökçen Airport. These services provide a direct connection from your hotel to the airport, making them a more comfortable option than public transport. However, these services tend to be more expensive, and it’s generally necessary to make a reservation in advance.
Conclusion
Public transportation to Sabiha Gökçen Airport is both economical and practical. With options such as Havabüs, IETT buses, and the metro-bus combination, you can avoid heavy traffic and high costs while traveling comfortably. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, public transport offers an easy way to reach the airport and make your Istanbul trip more convenient.