Istanbul Airport (IST, European side) and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW, Asian side) are about 84 km apart by road; the drive takes about 60 minutes without traffic and can reach 2 hours at weekday rush hours and in Bosphorus bridge traffic. We run non-shared private transfers between the two airports for passengers with connecting flights.
How much time should I allow for the connection?
With baggage drop, passport and security checks, we recommend at least 5–6 hours between the two flights for domestic–international connections. The route crosses one of the Bosphorus bridges (usually Yavuz Sultan Selim or Fatih Sultan Mehmet).
Meeting point: name boards are not allowed at Istanbul's airports. At IST you are met at exit door 13 with an SS1 sign, at SAW at the TÜRSAB Meeting Point (give your name to the attendant).
- Istanbul Airport meeting point guide →
- Sabiha Gökçen meeting point guide →
- Istanbul Airport distance chart (35 districts) →
- Sabiha Gökçen distance chart (35 districts) →
Frequently asked questions
How far is Istanbul Airport from Sabiha Gökçen?
About 84 km by road; about 60 minutes without traffic.
How long does it take between the airports?
About 60 minutes without traffic; 1.5–2 hours at rush hour and in bridge traffic.
Is there a metro between the two airports?
There is no direct link; with metro and bus changes the trip can take several hours. With luggage, a private transfer is the most practical option.
How is the transfer price set?
The price is per vehicle and appears instantly in the booking form; it is fixed at booking and does not change with traffic or delays.