Da nang airport: History, Locations & Ultimate Guide in 2024

Although this is the third largest airport following Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) and Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), it is significantly smaller in both size and passenger traffic compared to the other two. Nevertheless, it plays a crucial role as a transportation hub in Central Vietnam, Da nang airport, linking the northern and southern regions of the country.

History of airport

Da Nang International Airport was established in 1940 and functioned as a key military base until the Reunification in 1975. By December 2011, the old airport was decommissioned and replaced by a newly constructed facility nearby.

The current airport features two parallel runways, each approximately 3,050 meters in length, capable of handling larger aircraft such as Boeing 767s, 787s, Airbus 340s, 350s, and Antonov 124. With a capacity to handle six million passengers annually, the new facility boasts modern amenities and services.

Location

Located just 3 kilometers from Da Nang’s city center, 35 kilometers north of the scenic town of Hoi An, and 93 kilometers south of Hue, this modern airport serves Central Vietnam efficiently.

• Address: Hoa Thuan Tay Ward, Hai Chau District, Da Nang City
• ICAO Code: VVDN
• IATA Code: DAD
• Passenger Terminal Area: 600 m²
• Runways: 2
• Annual Capacity: 6 million passengers
• Operational Hours: 24/7
• ICAO Aerodrome Reference Code: 4E
• Airport Reference Point: Latitude 16° 02’38’’N, Longitude 108° 12’01’’E (WGS-84)
• Elevation: 11 meters (MSL)

The airlines flying into ariport

Da Nang International Airport handles hundreds of flights daily. From this airport, you can easily travel to various domestic destinations like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Pleiku, Ha Long, Da Lat, Nha Trang, Hai Phong, Can Tho, Buon Me Thuot, and Vinh with airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, Vietjet Air, or Vasco.

In addition to domestic routes, the airport offers numerous international flights, primarily to destinations in Southeast Asia and East Asia, including Siem Reap, Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Macau, Tokyo, Seoul, Shanghai, Beijing, Hong Kong, and Taipei. If you plan to visit popular spots like Da Nang Beach or the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Hoi An or Hue, Da Nang International Airport will likely be your gateway.

Arrivals

After you disembark from your flight, proceed through the quarantine section to reach the baggage claim area. If you need to collect your Visa On Arrival, go to the VOA desk, complete the form, and present your passport along with the letter you received from your online visa application.

You should receive your passport with the visa stamped inside within about 15 minutes, though it might be a bit hectic if there are many people.

Next, move to the passport control area, pass through immigration, and proceed to the customs inspection zone. After customs, you’ll find a foreign currency exchange service; it’s wise to get some local currency here before heading to the city center by taxi. Additionally, the arrival hall features a tourist information desk where you can get assistance with hotel reservations or tour bookings.

Departures

All check-in counters are located on the second floor of the terminal building. After you go through the initial security checkpoint, you’ll find the check-in counters straight ahead. From there, proceed to passport control to finalize airport procedures before entering the departure lounge. Before boarding your flight, you’ll need to pass through one more security checkpoint at the gate.

Transport options

Da Nang International Airport is located just 3 km southwest of the city center. To get to the city, you can use either buses (check the bus routes map) or airport taxis. The taxi stand is right outside the arrivals area. Make sure the driver starts the meter and keep some small change on hand, as drivers prefer not to handle large bills.

Hoi An is about 35 km from Da Nang, and public transportation is not commonly used for airport transfers between the two locations. An excellent option is Hoi An Express, which provides shared shuttle bus services between Da Nang and Hoi An. This service will take you directly to your accommodation in either city.

Additionally, many travel agencies offer private car transfer services from the airport. If you are traveling with a large group, family, or children, this is a great option. It’s advisable to book the car in advance to save time.

Eating and drinking

While waiting for your flight, you can grab a snack or drink at the restaurants. One cafe is located in the departures hall, and another is situated in front of the passenger terminal. The second cafe offers light meals and beverages, but if you’re looking for something more substantial, it’s best to eat before leaving the city.

SIM card

Getting a Vietnamese SIM card at Da Nang International Airport is quite straightforward. You can find kiosks selling local SIM cards on the ground floor. The most popular providers in Vietnam are Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobiphone. A SIM card typically costs between 10 and 20 USD, depending on the provider and whether you choose a 4G or 5G plan. All you need is an unlocked phone and your passport for ID, and the staff will assist you with the registration process.

Entertainment, activities and facilities

The departure hall is equipped with ATMs, international phones, and an internet area. Wi-Fi access is also provided in the Business Lounge. Besides a few TVs in the departure lounge, there are no other entertainment options at the airport. Da Nang International Airport offers several shopping options, including a range of stores and souvenir shops in the departure terminal. These souvenir shops feature local specialty foods, handicrafts, and silk clothing. In the international passenger departure lounge, you’ll find duty-free shops with a selection of cosmetics, jewelry, alcohol, and chocolates.

Conclusion

Vietnamdope Travel guide you on Da Nang International Airport, the lesser-known alternative, might be your ideal choice. It provides all the modern amenities but without the overwhelming crowds. This airport offers a more tranquil experience compared to the others, which can be especially beneficial for older travelers or families with young children. In fact, it’s a great option for anyone looking to avoid a potentially stressful journey.