Detailed Information on Airports in Vietnam Before Your Trip

Vietnam is a hot spot for travelers, drawing in crowds year-round with its captivating charm. For those gearing up to explore Vietnam, the journey typically kicks off at one of the country's airports. Thus, picking the perfect airport, be it international or domestic, sets the tone for an unforgettable adventure.

But just how many airports does Vietnam boast? And which airlines should you consider? This article delves into Vietnam's airport landscape, offering insights to aid adventurers in selecting the optimal launchpad for their journey.

Written by Oliver PHUNG (Local expert)Updated on 23-04-2025

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1. Overview Of Vietnam’s Airports

As of now, Vietnam boasts a total of 22 operational airports, with 12 designated as international hubs. The management of these airports falls under the purview of the Airports Corporation in Vietnam.

For travelers eyeing Vietnam as their next destination, it's crucial to note that the top three major international arrival Vietnam airports are:

• Noi Bai in Hanoi (located in the north),
• Da Nang (situated in the center),
• Tan Son Nhat in Ho Chi Minh City (positioned in the south).

Moreover, other international airports also facilitate direct flights to popular tourist destinations within the country.

1.1 Vietnam airports map

Various airlines in Vietnam cater to both international and domestic routes. Among them are Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Bamboo Airways, and Vietravel Airlines. Each of these carriers maintains an official website where travelers can peruse flight schedules, compare prices, and explore in-flight amenities.

To ensure a seamless journey by air, it's advisable to secure your plane tickets well in advance, particularly for international and domestic flights. This approach allows for convenient scheduling, comfortable seating arrangements for longer trips, and reasonable fare rates. Keep in mind that ticket prices might surge during public holidays.

Additionally, it's prudent to stay updated on flight schedules, as they are subject to change based on airline operations. Regularly monitoring this information will help prevent any mishaps and ensure you don't miss your flight.

2. International Airports: Which Airport To Choose To Visit Vietnam?

2.1 Hanoi Airport - Noi Bai international airport (HAN)

• Official Name: Noi Bai International Airport
• Address: Phu Minh Municipality, Soc Son District, Hanoi. (About 45 km from the center of the capital of Hanoi)
• Airport code: HAN  
• Website: http://noibaiairport.vn

Noi Bai International Airport is the only airport in Hanoi and the largest in the north of the country. It is the second-largest airport in Vietnam.

It is very popular with travelers arriving in Vietnam and starting their journey from Hanoi. Every year, the airport serves tens of millions of passengers, both domestic and international.

The 2 terminals at Noi Bai Airport:

Up until now, it appears that there have been two terminals at Noi Bai Airport:

• Terminal 1: Dedicated to domestic flights, serving airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Bamboo Airways, etc.
• Terminal 2: For international flights, with several airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, Qatar Airways, Korean Air, China Airlines, Japan Airlines, etc.

Transferring from one terminal to another may require around 15-20 minutes.

The terminals are linked by a shuttle bus service.

Flights operated at Noi Bai

In addition to the 5 domestic airlines, around 22 international airlines operate flights to and from Noi Bai Airport, offering convenient connections to the most popular destinations in the neighboring countries of Vietnam, Europe, Latin America, and more. Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, All Nippon Airways, Iberia Airlines, and others are some of the most popular.

For domestic flights, with the exception of Hai Phong and Van Don, you can fly to all other domestic airports from Noi Bai Airport.

Services Offered at Noi Bai Airport

1. Free Wi-Fi: @Airport Free Wi-Fi – Goldsun" or "Noi Bai Airport Free Wi-Fi"

2. ATMs and currency exchange services

• ATMs at Noi Bai Airport

Most terminals at Noi Bai Airport have ATMs from large banks, so it's easy to find them without wasting time moving around.

At the Domestic Terminal (T1), in the public area on the first floor:
• 9 banks with ATMs: Citibank, ANZ, HSBC, Vietinbank, Techcombank, Á Châu, VIB, Sacombank, Agribank.
• 1 bank kiosk: Vietinbank.

In the International Terminal (T2):
• Public area on the first floor, west wing: 3 ATMs from BIDV, Maritime Bank, and VP Bank.
• First floor public area, east wing: 3 ATMs from Vietinbank, Techcombank, and Agribank.

• Currency exchange counters

Currency exchange counters in the domestic terminal (T1): In the public area on the first floor. You can exchange money at 2 currency exchange counters at Vietinbank and Á Châu banks. You can also exchange money at the bank kiosks of BIDV and Vietinbank.

The currency exchange counters in the T2 international terminal:

• Location 1: Near gates 17 and 18.
• Location 2: In front of the D (exit) procedure line.
• Location 3: Behind the immigration police counter (arrivals).
• Location 4: International arrivals hall (departure).

3. Free Battery Charging Service

Domestic Terminal (T1):

• First floor public area: 01 location in concourse A, 01 location in concourse B.
• Boarding area on the second floor: In concourses A, B, D, E, each has between 04 and 08 locations.

International Terminal (T2):

• Third floor public exit area: There are 02 locations on either side of the information desk.
• Third floor airside: There are 23 locations in the gate area from gate 20 to gate 36.
• First floor arrivals area: There are 04 locations.

4. Sale of Vietnam SIM cards

Terminal T1 (Domestic): Counters are usually located in concourses A and E, near the check-in area or exit gates.

Terminal T2 (International): The counters are located in the arrivals hall, after completing immigration formalities, making it easy for international travelers to shop right upon arrival in Vietnam.

5. Sleeper cabins

The rest capsules at Noi Bai Airport are located on the second and third floors of Terminal T1 and the second floor of the International Terminal T2.

6. Children's play area

Child Care Area:

• International Passenger Terminal T2 (third floor, east and west wings)
• International departure lounge (gate 28 and gate 31)
• International Passenger Terminal T2 (third floor, west wing)
• International departure lounge

Children's Play Area:

• International Boarding Lounge (third floor, gate 33)
• Domestic Boarding Lounge (fourth floor)

7. Other services: Luggage packing service, luggage storage and packing service, business class lounge, shops and restaurants, medical rooms, shuttle service between domestic and international terminals.

How to get from Noi Bai Airport to the center of Hanoi?

• Taxi: The taxi ride from Noi Bai Airport to Hanoi takes between 45 minutes and 1 hour. However, be wary of drivers who may ask for a high price.
• Grab: This option is quite convenient, but it's not always easy to get a car quickly, as the area is somewhat far from the city center.
• Bus: You can take bus number 86 (Arrival at Le Duan Street), which operates daily from 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM. While it's a budget-friendly option, buses are often very crowded and not ideal for travelers with a lot of luggage.
• Airline Bus: Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air offer a direct bus service, which can be a convenient option for passengers of these airlines.

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💡Hanoi is often chosen as the first destination on every trip to Vietnam. From Hanoi, travelers can visit the northern mountain region, Sapa and Ha Giang; Ninh Binh, Mai Chau, and Halong Bay, a must-see destination in the north.

>>> For your next trip: Best Time to Visit North Vietnam in 2025? 

• Official Name: Tan Son Nhat International Airport
• Address: Truong Son Street, Quarter 2, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City (About 6 km from the city center)
• Airport code: SGN
• Website: http://tansonnhatairport.vn

The 3 terminals at Tan Son Nhat Airport

By 2025, Tan Son Nhat Airport will have 3 terminals:

• T1: Old National Terminal
• T2: International Terminal
• T3: New Domestic Terminal (Currently, as of April 2025, only Vietnam Airlines operates in this terminal)

The transfer time between the terminals can be up to 20 minutes.

The terminals are connected by a shuttle bus system. There are also covered pedestrian walkways for transit passengers.

Latest news:

• All domestic flights operated by Vietnam Airlines from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh will transfer to Terminal T3 as of April 19, 2025. All other domestic flights (except for Con Dao, Ca Mau, and Rach Gia) by Vietnam Airlines will also transfer to Terminal T3 effective April 28, 2025.
• Note: Flights operated by Pacific Airlines and VASCO will continue to operate in Terminal T1.

Flights operated at Tan Son Nhat Airport

The 5 Vietnamese carriers operating domestic flights from Ho Chi Minh City and internationally include VASCO, Pacific Airlines, Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways.

There are also 45 international airlines operating flights to and from Tan Son Nhat Airport, providing ample choices for travelers. Among them are Air China, Air France, Hong Kong Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and Thai AirAsia.

Services Offered at Ho Chi Minh City Airport

Tan Son Nhat Airport has security systems and numerous services to meet the needs of passengers:

1. Free Wi-Fi: the "TSN Free Wi-Fi Express" network

2. Banking services and automated teller machines (ATMs):

• Currency exchange areas in the International Terminal

Location 1: Near gates 17 and 18
Location 2: In front of the D (exit) procedure line
Location 3: Behind the immigration police counter (arrivals)
Location 4: International Arrivals Hall (departure)

• ATMs at Tan Son Nhat Airport

• Domestic terminal: 06 machines on the ground floor, in front of gate D2 in the departure area.
• International terminal: 04 machines in pillar number 14, and 01 machine in pillar number 3 – ground floor of the arrivals area.

3. Free battery recharging service (at the domestic terminal)

• Gate D1, in front of the Vietnam Airlines self-check-in kiosk.
• Vietjet Air lounge, in front of gates 16-17.
• First floor, in front of the security control area.
• First floor, lounge area, in front of gates 10-11 and 11-12.

4. Sale of Vietnam SIM cards

SIM outlets at Tan Son Nhat Airport are located before and after the immigration area. You can find kiosks that sell SIMs from Vinaphone, Viettel and Mobifone.

5. Nap Pods

The waiting area for the flight is located near gate number 27, in the boarding area of the International Terminal. Opening hours: 24/7. Minimum usage time: 2 hours.

6. Children's play area (in the international terminal)

The children's play area is located on the second floor of the boarding area, international terminal.

7. Other services: VIP and CIP lounges in all domestic and international terminals, luggage packing service, medical services (one domestic and two international medical rooms), luggage storage (from 7 am to 11 pm), shops and restaurants.

How to get from Tan Son Nhat Airport to the city center?

Several options are available for getting from Tan Son Nhat Airport to the heart of Ho Chi Minh City.

• Taxi: Probably the most popular and comfortable mode of transport, this ride to the city center takes about 30 minutes. Official taxis, like Mai Linh and Vinasun, can be picked up at the airport.
• Grab: Most travelers find this the most hassle-free and suitable option.
• Bus (Bus 109): The airport bus, Bus 109, takes passengers from the airport to Parque 23/9 in the city center. The bus is very cheap, but it takes much longer and could be difficult for foreign tourists because of its frequency and stops. The bus runs from 5:30 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
• Airline Bus: These are provided for passengers of Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air, offering a direct transfer from the airport to the city.

Briefly, for convenience and speed, Grab or a taxi should be your choice. The bus is economical, but slower and impractical for those unfamiliar with the city. Note: Locations at the airport to pick up Grab/taxi.

From April 15, 2023, Tan Son Nhat Airport changed the location for picking up transport vehicles by app at the international terminal. Passengers should go to the parking lot in front of the terminal to take a car.

• Pick-up location: In the parking lot in front of the international terminal, between pillars 10 and 12.
• Access: Passengers must enter through lane B – International Terminal, then turn left to reach the waiting area.

From January 13, 2023, GrabCar is authorized to pick up passengers at all pillars of lane D1 – Tan Son Nhat Airport Domestic Terminal, specifically from pillar L5 to A5 (from square 1 to 12).

Location of the pillars for pick-up: From pillar L5 to A5 (i.e. from square 1 to 12).
Access: Lane D1 is located inside the TCP parking lot, parallel to the other lanes in front of the Domestic Terminal.

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Ho Chi Minh City, the biggest city in Vietnam, is located in the southern region. Tourists can access places like the Cu Chi Tunnels, which represent the glorious history of Vietnam, or visit the Mekong Delta, a unique area where land intermingles with water. Alternatively, they can enjoy some of the best beaches in the world, such as Phu Quoc, Mui Ne, and Con Dao. >>> Explore All: Southern Vietnam - Top 6 Most Beautiful Places to Visit.

3. Other airports in Vietnam

In addition to major airports like those in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, there are also six other international airports in Vietnam, from north to south:

3.1 Da Nang Airport (DAD)

• Address: Nguyen Van Linh Street, Hoa Thuan Tay Ward, Hai Chau District, Danang City
• Distance from City Center: 5 km
• Highlight: The third largest airport in Vietnam, following Noi Bai (Hanoi) and Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City).

3.2 Nha Trang Airport (CXR)

• Address: Nguyen Tat Thanh Street, Cam Ranh Town, Khanh Hoa Province
• Distance from City Center: 10 km ~ 20 minutes drive

3.3 Hue Airport (HUI)

• Address: National Road 1A, Phu Bai District, Huong Thuy Town, Thua Thien Hue Province
• Distance from City Center: 15 km

3.4 Da Lat Airport (DLI)

• Address: National Road 20, Lien Nghia Town, Duc Trong, Lam Dong
• Distance from City Center: 28 km

3.5 Phu Quoc Airport (PQC)

• Address: Duong To commune, Phu Quoc district, Kien Giang province
• Distance from City Center: 15 km ~20 minutes drive.

Can Tho Airport (VCA)

• Address: 179B Le Hong Phong Street, Tra An Ward, Binh Thuy District, Can Tho City
• Distance from City Center: 8 km

4. Domestic Airports In Vietnam

Major international airports are often very crowded, which can lead to long wait times and difficulties when traveling to remote provinces. However, travelers in Vietnam can use domestic airports to move between provinces with ease.

4.1. Dong Hoi - Quang Binh Airport (VDH)

Dong Hoi Airport is located in Lu Ninh Town, Quang Binh Province. It is around 6 kilometers from the city center and takes about 15-20 minutes to get there.

4.2. Buon Ma Thuot Airport - Daklak (BMV)

Buon Ma Thuot Airport is situated in Hoa Thang commune, Dak Lak province. It is a major airport in Vietnam's Central Highlands region. It takes approximately 20-30 minutes to go from the airport to the city center.

4.3. Con Dao Airport - Ba Ria-Vung Tau (VCS)

Nestled in Co Ong on Con Dao Island within Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province, offers convenient access despite its 14 km distance from the city center. Travelers can swiftly reach their destinations using a range of transportation options, including taxis, Grab, and hotel or resort shuttles, typically completing the journey in just 20 to 30 minutes.

4.4. Ca Mau Airport - Ca Mau (CAH)

Ca Mau Airport, situated at 93 Ly Thuong Kiet Street in District 6 of Ca Mau Town, Ca Mau Province, lies approximately 10 km (around 15-20 minutes drive) from the heart of the city.

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5. How Many Airlines In Vietnam?

At present, the Vietnam General Aviation Administration grants licenses to operate to five Vietnamese airlines. These include Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Bamboo Airways.

5.1 Vietnam Airlines

• Official website: Vietnam Airlines
• Domestic destinations served: All cities/provinces
• International destinations served: Bangkok (Thailand), Seoul (Korea), Tokyo (Japan), Singapore (Singapore), London (UK), Paris (France), Frankfurt (Germany), New York (USA), Sydney (Australia),….
• Ticket class: Economy, Premium Economy and Business.

Vietnam Airlines review: If you're eyeing a top-notch flight for your Vietnam trip, Vietnam Airlines should be on your radar. It's the country's national carrier and boasts a solid 4-star rating, promising premium service with plenty of onboard perks. Just be prepared for the premium price tag.

>>> Information about Vietnam Airlines baggage

• Economy Class: 23 kg of checked baggage + 12 kg hand luggage
• Premium Economy: 23 kg of checked baggage + two 18 kg handbags
• Business Class: 32 kg of checked baggage + two hand bags of 18 kg

Remember, the total dimensions for checked baggage must not exceed 203 cm (width + height + depth), while for hand luggage, it's 115 cm (56 x 36 x 23 cm).

5.2 Bamboo Airways

• Official website: Bamboo Airways
• National destinations served: Major cities/provinces (Hanoi, Hai Phong, Thanh Hoa, Ho Chi Minh City, Danang, Quy Nhon, Nha Trang,..)
• International destinations served: Korea, Taiwan, Czech Republic…
• Ticket class: Bamboo Economy (Economy Saver Max, Economy Saver, Economy Smart and Economy Flex), Bamboo Premium (Premium Smart and Premium Flex), Bamboo Business (Business Smart, Business Flex)

Bamboo Airways review: Launched in 2017, presents an enticing choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking modern comforts. Boasting a fleet of new aircraft, the airline offers appealing bundled packages and boasts the highest punctuality rating in the industry. Expect top-notch service and a diverse selection of meals and beverages onboard, delivered with professionalism.

However, it's worth noting that Bamboo Airways doesn't currently fly to all destinations and lacks online check-in options.

>>> Information about Bamboo Airways luggage: 

• For domestic flights (excluding Con Dao): 20 kg checked baggage allowance for economy, and 40 kg checked baggage allowance for business class
• Hand luggage: 1 bag, max 7 kg for economy, and 2 bags, max 14 kg each for business class.

5.3 Vietjet Air

• Official website: Vietjet Air
• Domestic destinations served: All cities/provinces
• International destinations served: A wide variety of destinations in Asia, Australia and the Middle East
• Ticket class: Sky Boss Business Class (the most expensive price), Eco Economy Class (the average price), Promo Economy Class (the cheapest price)

Vietjet Air Review: Vietjet Air stands out as a favored budget airline in Vietnam, renowned for its frequent special deals and enticing promotions, ideal for savvy travelers on the hunt for bargains. While it provides reasonably comfortable amenities, it's worth mentioning that occasional flight delays or cancellations can occur.

Keep in mind, passengers are restricted to one carry-on weighing up to 7 kg. Despite these minor inconveniences, Vietjet Air maintains its appeal for those seeking wallet-friendly travel without sacrificing quality service.

>>> Information about Vietjet Air luggage

• Hand baggage: Passengers are entitled to one free hand baggage weighing up to 7 kg and measuring a maximum of 56 x 36 x 23 cm.
• Personal item: In addition to hand baggage, passengers may bring one additional personal item such as a purse, laptop bag, or small suitcase.
• Checked baggage: Passengers have the option to purchase a baggage allowance of up to 32 kg when booking their ticket, at the ticket office, at the agent, or at the customer service center. However, it's important to note the dimensions and weight of checked baggage, as additional charges may apply if the permitted limits are exceeded.

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6. Tips When Using Vietnam Airport

If you're planning your first trip to Vietnam, it's crucial to be well-prepared and mindful of the following tips:

• Arrive at the airport early: Major airports like Noi Bai (Hanoi) or Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City) can get crowded, so aim to arrive at least 1 hour before your boarding time. This allows ample time for check-in procedures and luggage weighing.
• Check the airline's official website: See if you can complete check-in procedures online to save time at the airport.
• Prepare your documents: Ensure you have all necessary personal documents and meet visa requirements for entry into Vietnam.
• Pack your luggage wisely: Familiarize yourself with each airline's rules regarding baggage weight and dimensions to avoid any surprises at check-in.
• Explore airport services: Airports in Vietnam offer a variety of services, both free and paid. Before utilizing any service, it's wise to check online or inquire with service managers to understand any potential additional charges.

By following these pointers, you can streamline your airport experience and start your Vietnam journey smoothly and stress-free.

FAQs About Airports in Vietnam

What are the major international airports in Vietnam?

Major International Airports in Vietnam:

• Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) – Hanoi
• Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) – Ho Chi Minh City
• Da Nang International Airport (DAD) – Da Nang
• Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR) – Near Nha Trang
• Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) – Phu Quoc Island

How many airports are there in Vietnam?

Vietnam has 22 operational airports, of which 12 are international and 10 are domestic.

What transportation options are available from the airport to the city center?

Transportation options vary by airport but typically include:

• Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: Metered taxis are readily available. Apps like Grab offer ride-sharing and taxi services.
• Airport Shuttles and Buses: Many airports provide shuttle buses to key locations in the city.
• Private Transfers: You can book private cars or vans in advance through travel agencies or online platforms.
• Public Transportation: Some airports are connected to city centers via public buses or, in future developments, metro lines.

Does Vietnam airport have free Wi-Fi?

Yes, most international airports in Vietnam offer free Wi-Fi throughout the terminals. Additionally, you'll find currency exchange booths and ATMs in both arrival and departure areas for your convenience.

Conclusion

Discover everything you need to enhance your experience at Vietnam's airports. Whether you crave comfort, convenience, or an authentic cultural immersion, Vietnam’s airports offer diverse options to match your preferences. Don't hesitate to ask for advice and additional information to ensure a stress-free trip planning experience. Wishing you a fantastic journey and a heartfelt welcome to Vietnam!

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