Turkish Aeronautical Association(THK) Sütlüce Helipad

Bilen Havacilik operates a dedicated terminal for private and charter aviation at Sabiha Gokcen International Airport (LTFJ), on the Asian side of Istanbul, near the district of Pendik. This facility serves as an alternative to the main commercial terminal, catering to business aviation, VIP travelers, and cargo operations. While the public knows Sabiha Gokcen primarily for its low-cost carriers and heavy traffic, the Bilen Havacilik side offers a more streamlined experience for those who fly privately or handle specialized logistics. The terminal itself is compact, with direct access to the apron, minimizing walking distances and wait times.

Getting There

Bilen Havacilik Sabiha Gokcen Havalimani is located within the Sabiha Gokcen Airport complex, approximately 35 kilometers southeast of Istanbul's city center. From central districts like Kadıköy or Sultanahmet, expect a 40- to 60-minute drive depending on traffic. The most straightforward route is via the E-80 motorway, exiting at the Sabiha Gokcen Airport junction. Taxis are abundant, with a flat rate from Kadıköy around 250-300 Turkish Lira (as of 2025). Ride-hailing apps like BiTaksi also serve the area. For public transport, take the M4 metro line from Kadıköy to Sabiha Gokcen station, then transfer to the airport shuttle bus (Havaist) which stops near the Bilen Havacilik terminal. The metro ride takes about 40 minutes, plus a 10-minute shuttle ride. Alternatively, from the European side, take the E-80 bridge, but allow extra time for bridge traffic, especially on weekends.

Inside the Terminal

Upon arrival, passengers at Bilen Havacilik will find a small, functional terminal designed for efficiency. The entrance is wheelchair-accessible, with a ramp and automatic doors. The car park directly in front offers reserved spaces for wheelchair users. Inside, the check-in area has low counters, and staff assist with luggage. The waiting area includes a few rows of seats and a restroom that is wheelchair-accessible. There is no café or shop, so bring snacks if needed. The atmosphere is quiet and businesslike, with minimal crowds. Security screening is swift, as only a handful of passengers pass through at any time. Departing passengers walk directly onto the tarmac to board aircraft. The facility is not open 24/7; it operates according to flight schedules, typically from early morning until late evening. If arriving on a private flight, customs and passport control take place inside the terminal, with officers on call. The busiest times—Mondays at 3 pm, Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 2 pm, and Thursdays at 1 pm—see slightly longer waits, but still far less than the main terminal.

Bilen Havacilik Sabiha Gokcen Havalimani LTFJ and Pendik

Pendik, the district surrounding the airport, is a coastal suburb on the Sea of Marmara with a population exceeding 700,000. While many travelers pass through solely for flights, Pendik offers several attractions worth exploring. The historic center, centered around Çarşı Square, features Ottoman-era mosques and a lively market selling fresh produce, textiles, and spices. Pendik's coastline has a newly renovated seaside promenade, ideal for an evening stroll with views across the sea to the Princes' Islands. The marina houses fishing boats and small yachts, with seafood restaurants serving grilled fish and rakı. For history enthusiasts, the Aydos Castle fortress, a Byzantine ruin, sits on a hill overlooking the district. Pendik is also a gateway to the Tuzla shipyards further east, but most visitors come for the blend of urban convenience and coastal calm. The airport's presence has fueled local development, with hotels like the Divan Istanbul Asia and the Hilton Garden Inn catering to transit passengers. Culture and history converge at the nearby Pendik Museum, which displays artifacts from the region's ancient past, including Hellenistic and Roman relics. Beyond Pendik, Istanbul's vast attractions are accessible by metro, but if time allows, a day spent exploring the district's hidden corners—such as the small artisan workshops in the old town—provides a more authentic encounter than the usual tourist circuit.

Practical Information

Bilen Havacilik Sabiha Gokcen Havalimani is not open daily; it operates on demand, typically Monday through Friday from 7 am to 8 pm, and weekends by appointment only. Confirm hours with the operator before traveling. The official website is http://www.bilenair.com.tr/. Phone: +90 212 574 40 10. For wheelchair users, the terminal is fully accessible, with a designated parking spot, ramp, and accessible toilet. The car park is free for arriving and departing passengers. A key tip: arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure for private flights, as customs and security formalities are brief. If you are using the shuttle from the main terminal, look for the "VIP" or "Executive Terminal" sign rather than the public bus stop. One concrete piece of advice: if you are flying privately and have spare time, ask the staff for a quick tour of the FBO's facilities—they are often happy to show you the small lounge and meeting rooms, which are rarely busy.