Da Nang is the gateway to the UNESCO-recognized Hoi An Ancient Town, the imperial city of Hue, and the stunning beaches of My Khe. At the heart of this accessibility is Da Nang International Airport, one of the busiest airports in Vietnam and a key hub for both domestic and international flights.
How Many Airports are in Da Nang?
Since July 2025, following the administrative merger of Da Nang and Quang Nam, the region now operates two main airports: Da Nang International Airport and Chu Lai Airport. This article offers a comprehensive guide to both airports, ensuring you know exactly how to plan your trip.
Da Nang International Airport (DAD) is the third busiest airport in Vietnam, after Tan Son Nhat in Ho Chi Minh City and Noi Bai in Hanoi. Located just 3 kilometers from downtown Da Nang, it serves as the primary entry point to Central Vietnam. The airport handles millions of passengers annually, connecting Vietnam to key cities in Asia such as Seoul, Tokyo, Bangkok, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur.
Chu Lai Airport (VCL), located in Nui Thanh District, is about 90 kilometers south of Da Nang center. Together, these two airports form a dual-airport system catering to both leisure and business travelers, while also opening opportunities for cargo and logistics.
Da Nang International Airport (Main Hub)
The IATA code is DAD, and the ICAO code is VVDN.
Location and Terminals
Da Nang International Airport is centrally located, making it one of the most convenient airports in Vietnam. It has two modern passenger terminals:
Terminal 1 (T1): Domestic flights connecting Da Nang with Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Can Tho, Hai Phong, and other cities.
Terminal 2 (T2): International flights serving Korea, Japan, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, China, and more.
The airport’s layout is compact, making it easy for passengers to transfer between arrivals, departures, and ground transportation.
Airlines and Routes
The airport is served by major domestic airlines such as:
- Vietnam Airlines
- Vietjet Air
- Bamboo Airways
- Pacific Airlines
International carriers include Korean Air, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways, AirAsia, Jeju Air, and Scoot. Direct flights connect Da Nang to popular Asian hubs like Seoul, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Taipei, Tokyo, and Singapore.
Services and Facilities
Lounges: Business and first-class lounges with food, drinks, and workspaces.
Dining & Shopping: Duty-free shops, souvenir stores, fast food outlets, and local Vietnamese cuisine.
Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal, ATMs, and currency exchange counters.
Tourist Services: SIM card counters, information desks, and car rental booths.
Transport to City Center
Because the airport is only 3 km away from downtown, transportation is quick and affordable:
- Taxi or Grab: 10–15 minutes to the city, costs around $5–8.
- Airport Shuttle: Buses connect the airport with main hotels and coastal resorts.
- Motorbike & Car Rentals: Available at the terminal for travelers seeking flexibility.
Chu Lai Airport (Expanding Hub)
Chu Lai Airport’s codes are IATA: VCL and ICAO: VVCA.
Location and Development
Chu Lai Airport is approximately 90 km south of Da Nang city. Originally built as a military airbase, it has since evolved into a civilian airport and is being developed into a logistics and cargo hub for Central Vietnam.
Routes and Airlines
Chu Lai Airport primarily serves domestic flights:
Routes include Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Can Tho.
Carriers like Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Bamboo Airways provide frequent service.
Transport to Da Nang and Hoi An
Getting from Chu Lai Airport to Da Nang or Hoi An requires ground travel:
Shuttle Bus: Regular shuttle buses connect Chu Lai with Tam Ky, Hoi An, and Da Nang (journey 1.5–2 hours).
Taxi or Private Car: More comfortable but more expensive.
Hotel Transfers: Some resorts in South Hoi An and Tam Ky offer direct pick-up services.
Interesting Facts About Da Nang Airports
Facts About Da Nang International Airport
- Da Nang International Airport is the third busiest airport in Vietnam, after Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City) and Noi Bai (Hanoi).
- Da Nang International Airport is located only 3 km from downtown Da Nang, making it one of the most convenient airports in the country.
- Planes landing or taking off from Da Nang often pass near the city’s iconic Dragon Bridge.
- In 2023, the international terminal received a 4-star rating from Skytrax, a global air transport rating organization. This recognition highlights its high service quality and modern facilities.
- Da Nang International Airport experienced a temporary closure in mid-2020 due to COVID-19, but has since resumed full operations and is continuing to grow rapidly with tourism recovery.
- The airport features two parallel runways, both equipped with modern navigation systems, allowing it to handle a high volume of traffic and accommodate large, wide-body aircraft like the Boeing 747 and Airbus A321.
- Smart Airport Initiative Da Nang is working with FPT Software to implement biometric check-in, smart baggage handling, and digital signage.
Facts About Chu Lai Airport
- Chu Lai Airport has one of the longest runways in Southeast Asia (3,050 meters).
- Both Da Nang and Chu Lai airports were originally military airbases during the Vietnam War before becoming civilian airports:
- Built in 1940 by the French, it served as a key U.S. airbase during the Vietnam War before becoming a civilian hub.
- Similar to DAD, Chu Lai Airport has a military past. It was originally established by the U.S. Marine Corps as a massive military air base during the Vietnam War. After being abandoned, it was reopened for civilian use in 2005.
- Chu Lai is the main airport for travelers heading to the nearby provinces of Quang Nam and Quang Ngai, including the provincial capital, Tam Ky.
Travel Tips for Passengers
Choose the right airport: International travelers should book flights into Da Nang International Airport, while domestic or budget-conscious travelers may find Chu Lai more affordable.
Check peak times: Da Nang Airport can be crowded during summer holidays and the Lunar New Year.
Book transport in advance: Especially if landing at Chu Lai, pre-arrange your shuttle or taxi to Da Nang or Hoi An.
Plan layovers: Both airports are gateways to world-class destinations like Hue, Hoi An, My Son Sanctuary, and Ba Na Hills.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Da Nang International Airport open 24/7?
Yes, the airport operates 24 hours a day, though most flights are scheduled between 6 AM and midnight.
How far is Da Nang International Airport from the city center?
Just 3 kilometers, about 10–15 minutes by car, making it one of the most conveniently located airports in Vietnam.
Can I get a SIM card at Da Nang Airport?
Yes, SIM cards and travel data packages are available at kiosks in both terminals.
Does Chu Lai Airport have international flights?
No. As of 2025, Chu Lai mainly serves domestic routes, though international low-cost flights are expected in the near future.
How long does it take to travel from Chu Lai Airport to the Da Nang center?
Just 90 kilometers, by shuttle bus or private car, the journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
Which airport should I choose when flying into Central Vietnam?
- For international flights and convenience: Da Nang International Airport.
- For domestic routes and cheaper fares: Chu Lai Airport.
Is there public transport from Da Nang Airport to Hoi An?
Yes, shuttle buses and taxis are available; the trip takes about 45 minutes.
Can I rent a motorbike at Da Nang Airport?
Yes, several local companies offer motorbike rentals directly from the airport.
Which airport is better for tourists?
Da Nang International Airport is ideal for leisure travelers due to its proximity to major attractions.
Conclusion
With its strategic location and modern facilities, Da Nang International Airport is the ideal entry point for exploring Central Vietnam. Alongside Chu Lai Airport, the region now benefits from a dual-airport system that supports tourism, business, and logistics. Whether you’re flying in for a beach holiday, cultural adventure, or business trip, Da Nang’s airports are ready to welcome you.