Imagine urgently needing to book a flight to Istanbul, only to be confused by airport codes—a scenario that significantly hampers efficiency. For business travelers requiring quick decisions, accurate airport code information becomes crucial. This article focuses on Istanbul Sabiha Gökçen International Airport, analyzing its IATA code from a data analyst's perspective while providing essential airport information to facilitate travel decisions.
Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW): Key Data Overview
Located in Istanbul, Turkey, Sabiha Gökçen International Airport serves as the city's second-largest international airport and a vital aviation hub. Below are the core data points for quick reference:
- IATA code: SAW – The unique three-letter identifier used by airlines and global distribution systems (GDS) for ticketing, baggage handling, and other operational processes.
- ICAO code: LTFJ – The four-letter designation assigned by the International Civil Aviation Organization for flight planning and air traffic control.
- Airport name: Sabiha Gökçen International Airport
- Country: Turkey
- Elevation: 1,221 feet (approximately 372 meters) – Critical for pilots calculating takeoff and landing performance.
- Geographic coordinates: Latitude 40° 53' 54.97" N, Longitude 29° 18' 33.12" E – Precise navigation reference points.
The Significance and Applications of SAW Airport Code
The IATA code SAW transcends being a simple letter combination, serving vital functions throughout air travel processes:
- Flight bookings: Essential when entering departure/destination airports during online reservations.
- Flight tracking: Enables quick identification of relevant flights through airline websites or third-party platforms.
- Baggage handling: Appears on luggage tags to ensure proper routing.
- Flight status notifications: Airlines reference IATA codes when communicating delays or cancellations.
- Data analytics: Used by airlines and airport authorities for passenger flow analysis and schedule optimization.
Operational Insights: SAW Airport's Growth Trajectory
Named after Turkey's first female combat pilot, Sabiha Gökçen International Airport has experienced sustained passenger growth, ranking among Europe's busiest airports. The facility primarily serves low-cost carriers, offering connections across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Continuous expansion projects enhance operational capacity and service quality to meet rising demand.
Understanding Sabiha Gökçen International Airport's IATA designation (SAW) proves indispensable for seamless travel. This analysis has examined the code's meaning, practical applications, and contextual airport information to support informed travel planning.