Is the metro to Istanbul Airport (IST) closed for repairs? How to get there without metro?

On October 2, roadworks on the way to Istanbul Airport (IST) caused about a 10-minute traffic delay around 11:00. Allow extra time when using an airport bus, taxi, or transfer.

A transfer route to IST was suggested: take Marmaray from Sirkeci to Halkalı, then transfer to the airport metro line. As this was described as a new route, check the transfer details before travelling.

One traveler reported the metro fare from the new airport is actually 60 lira, not the 42 lira often cited online — that info may be outdated.

The airport metro runs until midnight (00:00). One traveler also encountered a closed station when trying to transfer to the M2 line.

During the metro closure, Havaist airport buses serve multiple stops across the city, not just Taksim — check the Havaist website for the stop nearest to your location.

As of June 15, Google Maps was showing ongoing maintenance on the metro line to Istanbul Airport (IST). Always check the current status before traveling.

Paying by bank card directly on the metro doesn't work at Istanbul Airport (IST) or on the Marmaray line. Top up your Istanbulkart in advance to avoid issues.

When the IST metro is closed, the main alternative is the Havaist airport bus. Check the official Havaist website for current schedules and frequency.

Around June 14, reports indicated the IST metro closure was expected to last until approximately June 19. During this period, reaching the new airport by metro was not possible.

From Istanbul Airport (IST) to Taksim, the Havaist bus is the most popular public transport option. Taxis are available but considerably more expensive.

On June 13, some travelers reported the metro was still running, with a journey to Aksaray station taking about one hour. However, information about the start of maintenance was conflicting that day.