Vietnam currently features ten airports designated as international, with seven actively handling global flights. These facilities are crucial entry points for visitors and play a significant role in the nation's expanding tourism sector and economic progress.
Vietnam's Evolving Air Travel Landscape
The number of international airports in Vietnam has steadily increased, reflecting a growing demand for air travel and contributing to the country's tourism and economic development. In 2019, Vietnam welcomed over 18 million foreign visitors, highlighting the substantial volume of air traffic.
Major hubs like those serving Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have experienced passenger volumes exceeding their original design capacities. To address this, the Vietnamese government has outlined plans for expanding the Hanoi airport and constructing an additional international airport near Ho Chi Minh City in the coming years.
- Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi)
- Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City)
- Can Tho International Airport (Can Tho)
- Da Nang International Airport (Da Nang)
- Cat Bi International Airport (Hai Phong)
- Phu Bai International Airport (Hue)
- Cam Ranh International Airport (Nha Trang)
- Phu Quoc International Airport (Phu Quoc)
- Van Don International Airport (Quang Ninh)
- Vinh International Airport (Vinh)
While ten airports hold international status, seven are currently operational for international routes: Tan Son Nhat, Noi Bai, Da Nang, Cam Ranh, Phu Quoc, Cat Bi, and Van Don. The remaining airports primarily manage domestic flights, with aspirations to expand their international services in the future.
Detailed Profiles of Vietnam's Primary International Gateways
Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi)
Established in 1977, Noi Bai International Airport serves as the primary aerial entry point for northern Vietnam. It provides access to key destinations such as Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, and Mai Chau.
The airport features two main passenger terminals: Terminal 1 for domestic services and Terminal 2 for international flights, alongside a dedicated facility for VIP guests. The international Terminal 2 spans 139,216 square meters and is designed to handle up to 15 million passengers annually. Located in Soc Son District, the airport is approximately 35 kilometers from Hanoi's city center. From Noi Bai, travelers can connect to most domestic airports within Vietnam, subject to flight availability. For more information on managing finances in Hanoi, resources are available.
Van Don International Airport (Quang Ninh)
Also known as Ha Long Airport, Van Don International Airport is situated in Van Don District, Quang Ninh Province. It offers the most direct access for those heading to Halong Bay.
The airport commenced operations on December 30, 2018, with an inaugural flight from Hanoi by Vietnam Airlines. It occupies an area of 325 hectares (800 acres) and includes a single runway capable of managing 2.5 million passengers and 10,000 tons of cargo each year. The terminal is equipped with four baggage carousels, eight security checkpoints, and 31 check-in counters. Travel time from Van Don International Airport to the Tuan Chau Cruise jetty is about 1 hour and 15 minutes (65 km), while reaching Hanoi typically takes around three hours by road. If you are planning to explore the beaches of Halong Bay, this airport is a convenient starting point.
Cat Bi International Airport (Hai Phong)
Located in Hai An District, Hai Phong City, Cat Bi International Airport is strategically positioned for travelers visiting Hai Phong and nearby attractions. It is approximately 100 kilometers from Hanoi and about 41 kilometers from the Halong boat jetty, reachable in under an hour via a recently constructed freeway.
Historically, Cat Bi Air Base was utilized by the French Air Force. Significant upgrades were completed in 2015, including the addition of a 3,050-meter second runway and a new terminal building. The initial phase of this development concluded in May 2016, increasing the airport's annual capacity to 2 million passengers. Plans also include further improvements to the existing runway.
Da Nang International Airport (Da Nang)
Positioned just 3 kilometers west of the city center in Hai Chau District, Da Nang City, Da Nang International Airport is Vietnam's third-largest air facility. It follows Tan Son Nhat and Noi Bai airports in terms of passenger volume.
Similar to Noi Bai, it operates with two terminals: Terminal 1 for domestic flights and Terminal 2 for international arrivals and departures, along with a VIP lounge. The domestic terminal's arrivals area features lounges for various resorts, as well as shops and ATMs just beyond the exit. The international arrival visa processing area is generally less congested compared to those in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. However, there are no ATMs within the immigration area, so carrying cash in USD or Vietnamese Dong (VND) is advisable for international visitors. For information on banking services in Da Nang, travelers can find local guidance.
Cam Ranh International Airport (Nha Trang)
Cam Ranh International Airport is situated in Cam Ranh Ward, Khanh Hoa City. This airport primarily serves visitors seeking coastal holidays in Nha Trang.
Opened in 2009, the airport's design blends traditional Vietnamese aesthetics with contemporary architectural elements. It is equipped to manage a peak capacity of 800 passengers per hour during busy periods.
Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City)
As Vietnam's largest airport, Tan Son Nhat International Airport is located approximately 7 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City, a major southern metropolis. It covers an expansive area of 850 hectares and holds the top position nationwide for terminal capacity.
The airport comprises two terminals: a domestic terminal (Terminal 1) and an international terminal (Terminal 2), connected by a 500-meter covered walkway. The international terminal, which opened in September 2007, can accommodate up to 10 million passengers annually. It is a modern facility offering 80 check-in counters, 18 departure processing points, 20 arrival processing points, and eight customs detectors. Additionally, it provides numerous duty-free shops, seating lounges, coffee shops, and local dining options. Tan Son Nhat Airport serves as the main entry point for most travelers heading to southern Vietnam. For details on financial services in Ho Chi Minh City, resources are available.
Phu Quoc International Airport (Phu Quoc Island)
Phu Quoc Island draws both domestic and international visitors with its tropical beaches, serene sunsets, lush forests, and tranquil atmosphere. A significant advantage for international travelers is the convenient 30-day visa exemption available for all nationalities visiting the island, making it an appealing destination for a beach escape.
Direct flights to Phu Quoc International Airport provide access to the island. The airport is located just 10 kilometers from the center of Duong Dong town. A taxi ride of approximately ten minutes will take visitors to various seaside resorts for a comfortable stay.
Choosing Your Arrival Point: Regional Access
Selecting the appropriate international airport in Vietnam depends largely on your intended final destination. For those exploring the northern regions, including the capital Hanoi, the mountainous landscapes of Sapa, or the limestone karsts of Halong Bay, Noi Bai International Airport is the most logical entry.
Travelers planning a central Vietnam itinerary, encompassing cities like Da Nang or the coastal areas around Nha Trang, will find Da Nang International Airport or Cam Ranh International Airport to be the most convenient options. For southern Vietnam adventures, particularly Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, Tan Son Nhat International Airport is the primary hub. Phu Quoc International Airport offers direct access for those heading exclusively to Phu Quoc Island. Van Don and Cat Bi airports provide specialized access to Halong Bay and Hai Phong respectively.
Practical Considerations for International Arrivals
When arriving at any Vietnamese international airport, it is advisable to be prepared for immigration and customs procedures. While facilities are generally efficient, some airports may have specific considerations. For example, at Da Nang International Airport, although the international visa desk is typically less crowded than those in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, visitors should note the absence of ATMs within the immigration area.
Therefore, it is strongly recommended for international guests arriving in Da Nang to carry a sufficient amount of cash in either US Dollars or Vietnamese Dong to cover immediate expenses upon arrival. Most airports offer currency exchange services and ATMs in the main terminal areas after clearing immigration, but having some local currency beforehand can simplify initial transfers or purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many international airports does Vietnam have?
Vietnam has ten airports designated as international, with seven of these currently handling international passenger flights.
Which are the largest international airports in Vietnam?
The largest international airports by capacity and passenger volume are Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, and Da Nang International Airport in Da Nang.
Which airport is best for visiting Halong Bay?
Van Don International Airport in Quang Ninh Province is considered the most convenient airport for direct access to Halong Bay. Cat Bi International Airport in Hai Phong also offers good access, particularly with its freeway connection.
Is a visa required for all international arrivals in Vietnam?
Most nationalities require a visa for entry into Vietnam. However, Phu Quoc Island offers a 30-day visa exemption for all nationalities when flying directly to Phu Quoc International Airport and staying solely on the island. Always verify current visa requirements based on your nationality and travel purpose.
What are the future plans for Vietnam's international airports?
The Vietnamese government plans to expand Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi and construct a new international airport near Ho Chi Minh City to accommodate increasing passenger numbers and support tourism growth.
