Vietnam, the famed “land of ascending dragons,” offers breathtaking beauty and captivating culture, making it a top destination for Indian travellers. A smooth arrival and departure are crucial for an amazing Vietnam tour experience. Fortunately, Vietnam has excellent air connectivity. Understanding the key international airports in Vietnam is vital when planning your travel itinerary from India. While Vietnam designates several airports as “international,” key gateways handle the vast majority of international flights, including those connecting from major Indian cities. This guide provides essential details for Indian citizens on these main Vietnam airports, covering facilities, Visa on Arrival (VOA) for Indians, transportation, and tips for choosing the best airport for your Vietnam adventure.
Vietnam’s Air Hubs: Your Gateway from India to Diverse Vietnamese Experiences
Vietnam’s aviation sector is rapidly growing, with significant investment in its airports. Officially, Vietnam has 12 civilian international airports. These include Noi Bai (Hanoi), Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City), Da Nang, Cam Ranh (Nha Trang), Phu Quoc, Cat Bi (Hai Phong), Phu Bai (Hue), Lien Khuong (Da Lat), Vinh, Can Tho, and Van Don. However, for most Indian tourists flying internationally, the following five international airports in Vietnam are the most relevant and frequently used:
- Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) – Hanoi (North Vietnam)
- Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) – Ho Chi Minh City (South Vietnam)
- Da Nang International Airport (DAD) – Da Nang (Central Vietnam)
- Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR) – Nha Trang (Central Coast)
- Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) – Phu Quoc Island (South Vietnam)
Knowing the location and services of these key hubs, especially concerning direct flights from India to Vietnam and Vietnam Visa on Arrival for Indian citizens procedures, makes planning your journey much easier. Domestic carriers like Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Bamboo Airways, and Pacific Airlines (formerly Jetstar) connect these hubs extensively.
Top 5 International Airports in Vietnam for Indian Travellers
1. Noi Bai International Airport (HAN – Hanoi)
The primary international gateway to Northern Vietnam, Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) is located at Phú Minh, Sóc Sơn, about 30 km from Hanoi, the capital. Its ICAO Code is VVNB. As the second busiest airport in Vietnam and also serving as a military base, it reflects Hanoi’s status as a major cultural and commercial hub, handling numerous flights, including direct connections from cities like Kolkata and Delhi via IndiGo and Vietnam Airlines. This airport also notably bagged the “World’s most improved airport award” by Skytrax, partly due to its efficient international terminal.
Layout & Terminals
HAN features two main terminals, 850m apart, connected by a free shuttle bus:
- Terminal 2 (International): Handles all international flights, including those from India. This modern terminal is where Indian citizens will process immigration and potentially their Visa on Arrival. It boasts numerous check-in counters and kiosks.
- Terminal 1 (Domestic): Services domestic routes within Vietnam, with check-in counters divided into lobbies A, B, and E (for Vietjet).
Facilities and Services Relevant for Indians
AN offers comprehensive services: efficient check-in, baggage handling, immigration (including dedicated VOA counters – allow time, especially during peak hours), and customs. Regarding currency payments and tipping in Vietnam, the airport provides currency exchange (though rates for INR might be less favourable; ATMs are often better for withdrawing VND, the local currency), and ATMs accepting international cards (most dispense 2,000,000 to 5,000,000 VND per transaction).
While major credit cards are accepted at most airport outlets, having some VND cash is useful for smaller purchases or for immediate use upon arrival; tipping is not obligatory in Vietnam but is appreciated for good service. Other facilities include: free WiFi, varied food courts (e.g., Burger King, Highlands Coffee, Big Bowl; specific Indian options are limited inside), duty-free shops, medical services, playroom and baby care facilities, and airport lounges (check access with your Indian credit cards/Priority Pass).
Transportation to Hanoi City Centre
Options include:
- Taxis: Metered taxis available (approx. 300,000 – 400,000 VND plus 15,000 VND toll fee). Use reputable companies like Mai Linh or Vinasun.
- Ride-hailing Apps (Grab, Be, Go Viet): Often more cost-effective (approx. 250,000 VND with GrabCar). Requires Vietnamese SIM.
- Minivans: VietJet Air and Vietnam Airlines run minivans to downtown (1 Quang Trung) for 40,000 VND (4 am – 9 pm).
- Airport Buses: Express Bus 86 to city center and train station (approx. 30,000 – 45,000 VND, 6:30 am – 11 pm).
Visa on Arrival (VOA) for Indians at HAN
HAN is one of the airports where Visa on Arrival for Indian citizens is processed. Ensure you have your pre-approval letter, completed entry/exit form, passport photos, and the stamping fee in USD cash ready. An ATM is available within the immigration area for visa fees if needed in VND.
2. Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN – Ho Chi Minh City)
Situated at Trường Sơn, Phường 2, Tân Bình, just 8 km from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam’s vibrant economic hub, Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) is the busiest airport in Vietnam and the main gateway to Southern Vietnam. Its ICAO Code is VVTS. It serves numerous international airlines, including IndiGo and Vietjet Air flights from India.
Layout & Terminals
SGN is the largest airport in Vietnam by area (850 hectares) and has two main terminals connected by a 500m walkway, with a third under development:
- Terminal 2 (International): Handles all international arrivals and departures, including VOA processing for Indians. It has five passenger lounges.
- Terminal 1 (Domestic): Serves domestic flights across Vietnam, with two lounges and separate lobbies for some airlines like Vietjet.
- Terminal 3 (under construction): This new terminal, once operational, will handle domestic flights to reduce pressure on Terminal 1.
Facilities and Services Relevant for Indians
SGN provides extensive services: numerous check-in counters, baggage services, immigration/VOA processing, customs, currency exchange (ATMs recommended for better INR rates), free WiFi, diverse F&B outlets (e.g., Burger King, Starbucks, McDonalds just outside domestic terminal; limited specific Indian cuisine inside), duty-free shopping, lounges (check Indian card access), medical services, and children’s play areas.
Transportation to Ho Chi Minh City Centre
Options include (journey can take 50+ minutes depending on traffic):
- Taxis: Reputable brands like Vinasun or Mai Linh readily available (approx. 120,000 – 180,000 VND plus 10,000 VND toll fee). Avoid unsolicited offers.
- Ride-hailing Apps (Grab, Be, Go Viet): Convenient and popular. Requires Vietnamese SIM.
- Hired Car: Song Viet Car desk can arrange cars from 180,000 VND.
- Airport Buses: Economical choice (e.g., Bus 109 to backpacker district, Bus 49 to Ben Thanh Station; approx. 20,000 – 40,000 VND, 5 am – 2:30 am).
Visa on Arrival (VOA) for Indians at SGN
Like HAN, SGN processes Visa on Arrival for Indian citizens. Have your pre-approval letter, forms, photos, and USD stamping fee prepared for a smoother experience, especially during busy arrival times.
3. Da Nang International Airport (DAD – Da Nang)
Located at Duy Tan Street, Hoa Thuan Tay Ward, Hai Chau District, just 3-5 km from the city centre of Da Nang, Da Nang International Airport (DAD) is the main gateway to Central Vietnam. Its ICAO Code is VVDN. It offers easy access to Da Nang’s beaches, Hoi An, and Hue. It’s the third busiest international airport in Vietnam and also serves as a military base. This modern airport is rarely overcrowded.
Layout & Terminals
DAD has two modern terminals within easy walking distance via a covered walkway:
- Terminal 2 (International): Handles international flights and VOA processing. Note: no ATM in the immigration area, so have USD/VND for visa fees.
- Terminal 1 (Domestic): Serves domestic routes. ATMs are outside the exit.
Facilities and Services Relevant for Indians
DAD offers good facilities: check-in, baggage claim, immigration/VOA counters, customs, currency exchange/ATMs, free WiFi, restaurants and cafes, duty-free stores, baby care facilities, medical assistance, and lost & found. Major resort lounges are in the domestic terminal arrivals hall.
Transportation to Da Nang/Hoi An
Options include (30 mins to Da Nang beach area, 29km to Hoi An, 98km to Hue):
- Hired Car to Hoi An: Hotel arranged car for 250,000 – 350,000 VND.
- Taxis: Plentiful (approx. 70,000 – 120,000 VND to Da Nang city; upwards of 450,000 VND metered to Hoi An – consider pre-booking).
- Ride-hailing Apps (Grab, Go Viet): Available and convenient. Requires Vietnamese SIM.
- Shuttle Buses: Hoi An Express shuttle at gate A4 (domestic arrivals) runs hourly (5 am – 11 pm) to Da Nang City and Hoi An.
Visa on Arrival (VOA) for Indians at DAD
DAD is another airport facilitating Visa on Arrival. Ensure all required documents (pre-approval letter, form, photos, USD fee) are ready upon arrival.
4. Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR – Nha Trang)
Serving the popular coastal resort city of Nha Trang, Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR) is located at Nguyễn Tất Thành, Cam Hải Đông, Cam Lâm, Khánh Hòa, about 30 km south of the city centre. Its ICAO Code is VVCR. It’s the fourth busiest airport in Vietnam and notably handles a greater number of international passengers as compared to domestic ones, including charter flights. It also functions as a military base (Cam Ranh Air Base).
Layout & Terminals
CXR has two terminals:
- Terminal 2 (International): A newer terminal with four aerobridges and ten boarding gates, handling most international flights.
- Terminal 1 (Domestic): Handles domestic flights, with two aerobridges.
Facilities and Services Relevant for Indians
Facilities include check-in, baggage handling, immigration, customs, currency exchange/ATMs, free WiFi, food courts and eateries, duty-free shops, medical help centre, and airport lounge area.
Transportation to Nha Trang City Centre
Options include:
- Taxis: Readily available but relatively expensive due to distance (approx. 300,000 – 350,000 VND). Agree on price or use meter.
- Ride-hailing Apps (Grab): Usually a better-priced option.
- Airport Bus: Most economical (approx. 50,000 – 60,000 VND), connects to Nha Trang city centre.
Note for Indian Travellers
While CXR is international, direct scheduled flights from India are less common than to HAN or SGN. Check connecting flight options. VOA processing might be available for specific eligible flights, but pre-arranged e-Visas are generally recommended if not arriving via HAN, SGN, or DAD with a VOA letter.
5. Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC – Phu Quoc Island)
Located at Nguyễn Trường Tộ, Tổ 2, Phú Quốc, Kiên Giang (approx. 9km from Duong Dong town), on the beautiful Phu Quoc Island, Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC) serves as the direct gateway to this island paradise. Its ICAO Code is VVPQ. It’s known for its visa exemption policy for many nationalities (including Indians for stays up to 30 days if flying directly to Phu Quoc and not visiting mainland Vietnam).
Layout & Terminals
PQC has a single modern terminal building handling both domestic and international flights. Its capacity is around 2.5 to 4 million passengers annually, covering an area of almost 900 hectares.
Facilities and Services Relevant for Indians
Services include check-in, baggage handling, immigration (special lanes for visa exemption may apply), customs, currency exchange/ATMs, free WiFi, food shacks, duty-free shopping, taxi and car services, and medical assistance.
Transportation to Island Destinations
Options include:
- Taxis: Readily available (approx. 150,000 – 200,000 VND to Duong Dong).
- Ride-hailing Apps (Grab): Available on the island.
- Resort Shuttles: Many resorts offer pre-booked shuttle services.
- Motorbike Taxis (Xe Om): For solo travellers (negotiate price, approx 50,000-70,000 VND to Duong Dong).
Visa Note for Indians at PQC
Indian citizens can visit Phu Quoc for up to 30 days without a visa IF they fly directly to PQC (from an international location outside Vietnam) and depart directly from PQC, OR if they transit through another Vietnamese international airport but remain in the transit area without clearing immigration. If you plan to visit mainland Vietnam, you will need a regular Vietnam visa.
Other International Airports in Vietnam
Besides the top 5, Vietnam has other international airports serving various regions:
- Cat Bi International Airport (HPH), Hai Phong: Important for Northern coastal region. Serves civilian and military purposes.
- Phu Bai International Airport (HUI), Hue: Serves Thua Thien Hue province, crucial for heritage tourism.
- Lien Khuong Airport (DLI), Da Lat/Lam Dong: Currently serving domestic primarily, but proposed for full international airport status before 2030.
- Vinh International Airport (VII), Nghe An: Connects North Central Vietnam.
- Can Tho International Airport (VCA), Can Tho: Gateway to the Mekong Delta.
- Van Don International Airport (VDO), Quang Ninh: The first privately owned airport in Vietnam (by Sun Group), serving Ha Long Bay and Quang Ninh province.
- Phu Cat International Airport (UIH), Binh Dinh: Serves Quy Nhon and surrounding areas.
- Long Thanh International Airport (Dong Nai): A major new airport project currently under construction, set to ease congestion for SGN.
Choosing the Right Vietnam Airport for Your Indian Itinerary
Selecting the best international airport in Vietnam depends entirely on your travel plans:
- Northern Vietnam Focus (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa): Fly into Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi.
- Southern Vietnam Focus (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Mui Ne): Fly into Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City.
- Central Vietnam Focus (Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue): Fly into Da Nang International Airport (DAD).
- Beach Holiday in Nha Trang: Fly into Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR).
- Phu Quoc Island Only (Visa Exemption): Fly directly into Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC).
Once you’ve decided on your entry point, you can start planning exciting activities, such as exploring the magnificent caves in Vietnam, many of which are accessible from these key airport hubs with further domestic travel.
Navigating Arrival & Departure: Key Considerations for Indian Citizens
- Immigration and Visa on Arrival (VOA): If using VOA (at HAN, SGN, DAD), have your approval letter, completed forms, 2 passport-sized photos (4×6 cm), and USD cash for the stamping fee (currently $25 USD for single entry) ready. Follow signs for “Visa on Arrival.” Processing times can vary. If you have an e-Visa, proceed directly to immigration. Should your travel plans extend, it’s also wise to understand the process to renew Vietnam visa during your stay.
- Customs: Be aware of customs regulations regarding currency declaration (over $5000 USD cash equivalent) and prohibited items.
- Baggage Claim & Stubs: Check screens for your carousel. Report issues immediately. For domestic flights in Vietnam, be sure to keep your luggage stubs as they are often checked by airport personnel before you leave the terminal.
- Currency Exchange (INR to VND): Airport counters may offer less favourable rates. Use ATMs (widely available, dispensing 2-5 million VND/transaction) or exchange a small amount. Inform your Indian bank about travel.
- SIM Cards & Connectivity: Purchase a local SIM (Viettel, Mobifone, Vinaphone) upon arrival for data. Free WiFi is available but can be slow.
- Transportation: Pre-booking via your tour operator or using official taxis (Mai Linh, Vinasun) or ride-hailing apps is recommended.
- Fast Track Service: To save time, especially during peak seasons, consider using the Vietnam fast track service for effortless navigation through airport procedures upon arrival.
Practical Tips Tailored for Indian Tourists Arriving in Vietnam
- Direct Flights from India: Airlines like IndiGo and Vietjet Air offer direct flights from cities like Kolkata, Delhi, and Mumbai to HAN and SGN. Vietnam Airlines also provides connections. Book in advance.
- Food Considerations: Specific Indian vegetarian/Jain/Halal food is challenging *inside* airport terminals (chain restaurants like Burger King, Highlands Coffee are common). Major cities offer Indian restaurants. Pack snacks for arrival.
- Language: English is spoken at key service points. Signage is in Vietnamese/English. Hindi support is rare.
- Lounge Access: Check eligibility of your Indian credit cards/lounge programs (Priority Pass, LoungeKey).
- Prayer Rooms: Dedicated multi-faith prayer rooms are not commonly available in Vietnamese airports.
- Health Precautions: Depending on your itinerary, especially if visiting rural or forested areas, consult your doctor about health precautions, including whether you might need malaria tablets for Vietnam.
- Travel Documents: Keep passport, visa (e-Visa/VOA letter), tickets, hotel bookings, and insurance accessible.
- Pre-Booked Services: Recommended for convenience, especially for first-timers or late arrivals.
Conclusion: Your Smooth Start to an Incredible Vietnam Journey from India
Understanding the key international airports in Vietnam, particularly Noi Bai (HAN), Tan Son Nhat (SGN), and Da Nang (DAD) which facilitate VOA, is the first step towards a hassle-free trip. By knowing the facilities, transportation options, and specific procedures relevant to Indian tourists, you can navigate these gateways confidently. These airports are more than just transit points; they are your entry into the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality of Vietnam. Plan ahead, prepare your documents, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure curated for you by Vietnam Story.