A Traveller’s Guide to Vietnam’s Airports
Vietnam has a total of 22 airports, including international and domestic ones. The country’s aviation industry is managed by the Civil Aviation Administration of Vietnam (CAAV). The two main international gateways are Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City and Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi.
Airports serve as the primary gateway for travelers to Vietnam. Whether you’re landing in the country for the first time or preparing for a domestic flight, it’s essential to be well-informed about the country’s main airports to ensure a hassle-free journey.
A Brief Overview of Vietnam’s Airports
Most international flights to Vietnam arrive at one of the three major airports located in Hanoi, Da Nang, or Ho Chi Minh City. Additionally, there are direct international flights to popular tourist destinations like Nha Trang and Phu Quoc. Regardless of your arrival airport, ensure you have a valid visa or qualify for a visa exemption. Domestic flights within Vietnam are a convenient way to travel to distant locations, with carriers including Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Bamboo Airways, and Jetstar.
Key Points to Remember:
- Taxis: Mai Linh and Vinasun are reliable taxi companies in Vietnam. Look for their representatives at airport taxi bays upon arrival.
- Facilities: All international airports in Vietnam offer free WiFi, drinking water stations, currency exchange centers, duty-free shops, and designated smoking areas.
- Dining: Expect to find chain restaurants like Burger King, Highlands Coffee, Big Bowl, and Star Cafe in most terminals.
- ATMs: ATMs are conveniently located outside the entrances of Vietnam’s airports, with most local machines allowing withdrawals ranging from 2,000,000 VND to 5,000,000 VND.
- Luggage Stubs: Retain your luggage stubs when taking domestic flights, as airport personnel will check them before you exit the terminal.
Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) – Ho Chi Minh City
Tan Son Nhat International Airport, located in Ho Chi Minh City, is the busiest airport in Vietnam in terms of passenger traffic. It serves as the main gateway for international travelers coming to the southern part of Vietnam. The airport is conveniently situated approximately 20 minutes away from the city center. As the primary international transit point, it boasts a range of facilities and services to cater to the needs of travelers. These include various food services, souvenir shops, and money exchange stalls. The airport’s proximity to the city center makes it a strategic location for tourists and business travelers alike.
Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) – Hanoi
Noi Bai International Airport is the main airport serving the northern region of Vietnam, specifically the capital city of Hanoi. Located about 40 minutes from Hanoi‘s city center, it is the second busiest airport in the country. The airport is also a crucial transit point for travelers heading to popular tourist destinations like Halong Bay (3.5 hours away) and Sapa (4.5 hours away). Like its counterpart in Ho Chi Minh City, Noi Bai Airport offers a variety of amenities, including dining options and shopping outlets, ensuring a comfortable experience for its visitors.
Da Nang International Airport (DAD) – Da Nang
Da Nang International Airport is the primary airport serving the central region of Vietnam. It is strategically located just 10 minutes from Da Nang‘s city center, 30 minutes from the historic town of Hoi An, and 2.5 hours from the ancient capital of Hue. As the third busiest airport in Vietnam, it plays a pivotal role in connecting the central provinces with other parts of the country and international destinations. The airport is equipped with modern facilities and offers a range of services to meet the needs of both domestic and international travelers.
Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR) – Nha Trang
Cam Ranh International Airport is located near the coastal city of Nha Trang in Khanh Hoa Province. It takes about 35 minutes to reach the city center from the airport and 2.5 hours to the picturesque town of Dalat. The airport is a popular entry point for tourists visiting the beautiful beaches and resorts of Nha Trang. With its growing importance as a tourist hub, the airport has seen significant upgrades and expansions in recent years.
Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) – Phu Quoc Island
Situated on Phu Quoc Island in Kien Giang Province, Phu Quoc International Airport has become increasingly significant with the island’s rise as a top tourist destination in Vietnam. The airport is about 20 minutes away from the city center and has started receiving international flights from countries like Singapore. As the island continues to develop its tourism infrastructure, the airport is expected to see a surge in passenger traffic.
Cat Bi International Airport (HPH) – Hai Phong
Cat Bi International Airport serves the port city of Hai Phong. It is approximately 2.5 hours from Hanoi and 1.5 hours from the stunning Halong Bay. The airport’s strategic location makes it a vital transit point for travelers exploring the northern coastal regions of Vietnam.
Domestic Airports:
- Lien Khuong Airport (DLI) – Located in Da Lat, Lam Dong Province.
- Phu Bai International Airport (HUI) – Located in Hue, Thua Thien–Hue Province.
- Can Tho International Airport (VCA) – Located in Can Tho.
- Buon Ma Thuot Airport (BMV) – Located in Buon Ma Thuot, Dak Lak Province.
- Vinh International Airport (VII) – Located in Vinh, Nghe An Province.
conclusion
In conclusion, Vietnam’s main airports play a crucial role in the country’s tourism and economic growth. They are well-equipped with facilities and services to ensure a smooth and pleasant experience for travelers. As Vietnam continues to grow as a popular tourist destination, these airports are expected to see further expansions and upgrades to cater to the increasing number of visitors.
