Sabiha Gökçen Airport in Istanbul has once again broken records, with international passenger traffic reaching unprecedented levels.
On December 29, 2024, the airport welcomed 77,652 passengers in a single day, surpassing all previous records.
Located on the Asian side of Istanbul, Sabiha Gökçen has grown to become a vital hub for international travel, connecting 51 countries and offering flights to 141 destinations. The airport’s rapid expansion reflects Istanbul’s position as a global tourism leader.
In 2023, Euromonitor International named the city the most visited destination worldwide by international travelers. The city attracts millions of visitors with its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty.
December’s record-breaking day saw 424 flights operate from the airport, with 37,910 arriving passengers and 39,742 departing travelers. The surge in international traffic was largely driven by the holiday season, as tourists flocked to Istanbul for Christmas and New Year celebrations.
The previous record was set just a month earlier on November 17, 2024, when 72,587 international passengers passed through the airport. The consistent growth highlights the increasing demand for travel to and from Istanbul, positioning Sabiha Gökçen as a key gateway for global tourism.
As part of its expansion efforts, the airport added 16 new destinations in 2024 alone—15 international and one domestic—bringing distant locations closer to Istanbul. This network expansion solidifies its reputation as “the city’s airport,” thanks to its proximity to central areas and ease of access.
Among the fastest-growing routes from Sabiha Gökçen in 2024 were Rotterdam in the Netherlands, which saw a remarkable 122% increase in traffic, followed by Cairo with a 100% growth rate, and Belgrade, which experienced a 72% rise in passenger numbers. These trends reflect the growing interest in Istanbul as both a transit point and a destination for international travelers.
Sabiha Gökçen continues to play a crucial role in supporting Turkey’s tourism-driven economy. By offering seamless connections and increasing flight options, the airport not only boosts Istanbul’s accessibility but also contributes to the overall growth of the country’s travel and tourism sector.
With Istanbul’s status as a premier travel destination firmly established, Sabiha Gökçen is expected to continue shattering records and expanding its influence as one of Europe’s busiest and most dynamic airports.
