Hue Airport: A Detailed A-Z Guide for Travelers

Hue Airport, also known as Phu Bai Airport, is an important international airport in Central Vietnam serving both civilian and military purposes. Officially named Phu Bai International Airport (IATA code: HUI, ICAO code: VVPB), this airport acts as a transportation hub, boosting tourism and the economy of Thua Thien Hue province.

• Address: Zone 8, Phu Bai Ward, Huong Thuy Town, Thua Thien Hue Province.
• Distance to Hue city center: About 13–15 km to the Southeast, equivalent to 20–30 minutes of travel depending on the vehicle and traffic conditions.
• Hotline: (0234) 3861 131.
• Operating hours: 05:00–23:00 daily.
• Management: Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV).

The airport was built during the French colonial period (1940) for military purposes, then converted to civilian operations in 1976. In 2007, it was officially recognized as an international airport, and by 2023, the newly inaugurated Terminal T2 increased its capacity to 5 million passengers per year, unlocking potential for future international flight routes.

Phu Bai Airport is modernly designed, meeting international standards and deeply imbued with Hue cultural heritage, especially with the new Terminal T2 inaugurated in June 2023. Below is detailed information about the infrastructure:

Geographical Location

• Location: Located near National Route 1A, conveniently connecting to Hue city center and nearby tourist destinations such as the Imperial City, Thien Mu Pagoda, and Lang Co Bay.
• Distance to popular destinations:
  • Hue Imperial City: ~18 km (25–30 minutes).
  • Thien Mu Pagoda: ~20 km (30 minutes).
  • Khai Dinh Tomb: ~17 km (25 minutes).
  • Dong Ba Market: ~16 km (25 minutes).
  • Lang Co Bay: ~55 km (1 hour).

Runways and Apron

• Runway: 2,700 m long, 45 m wide, reaching ICAO code 4D standards, equipped with a modern lighting system supporting takeoff and landing day and night. This runway can accommodate medium-range aircraft such as Airbus A320, A321, and Boeing 737.
• Apron: Currently has 8–13 parking positions, including 12 positions for medium-range aircraft and 1 position for large aircraft like Boeing 787 or Airbus A350 (currently under upgrade).

Passenger Terminals

Phu Bai Airport has two terminals: T1 (old) and T2 (new). Since April 28, 2023, all flight operations have moved to Terminal T2.

• Terminal T2:
  • Area: 22,380 m², designed in Hue royal court architectural style with layered roofs, rich in traditional cultural identity.
  • Capacity: Serving 5 million passengers/year (4 million domestic, 1 million international), maximum 2,500 passengers/peak hour.
  • Structure:
    • 1st Floor: Arrival hall, immigration area, customs, security check, baggage carousels, VIP lounge, medical room, and commercial services.
    • Mezzanine Floor: Airline offices, air conditioning area, and restrooms.
    • 2nd Floor: Departure hall, check-in area, security check, boarding lounge, and VIP lounge.
  • Modern Technology: T2 is the first terminal in Vietnam to apply digital transformation with amenities such as automatic check-in kiosks, Self Baggage Drop systems, facial recognition, and automated E-gates.
• Terminal T1: Currently no longer operates commercial flights but is still used for auxiliary purposes.

Phu Bai Airport currently mainly serves domestic flights, with some international routes connecting via Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Popular airlines include Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, Bamboo Airways, and Pacific Airlines.

Domestic Flight Routes

Below are popular domestic routes and reference information (updated for 2025):

Note: Ticket prices may vary depending on booking time and travel season. Passengers should check flight schedules and ticket prices directly on the airlines' websites such as Vietnam Airlines or VietJet Air.

International Flight Routes

Currently, Phu Bai Airport does not operate regular direct international flights. International routes such as Hue – Bangkok, Hue – Singapore, or Hue – Tokyo are usually connected via Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi) or Tan Son Nhat Airport (HCMC). A number of international charter flights to Thailand, South Korea, or Japan are operated on special occasions.

To travel from Phu Bai Airport to Hue city center or tourist attractions, you can choose from the following transportation options:

Taxi

• Travel time: 20–30 minutes.
• Cost: 150,000–300,000 VND/trip (depending on taxi company and distance).
• Popular taxi companies:
  • Mai Linh: (0234) 389 89 89.
  • Xanh SM: (1900) 2088 – eco-friendly electric taxi.
  • Thanh Cong: (0234) 357 57 57.
  • Dong Ba: (0234) 384 84 84.
• Note: It is recommended to book via ride-hailing apps (Grab, Be) or negotiate the price in advance to avoid being overcharged.

Bus

• Travel time: 30–40 minutes.
• Cost: 7,000–10,000 VND/one-way ticket.
• Bus routes:
  • Route 2: Northern Bus Station – Southern Bus Station – Phu Bai Industrial Park.
  • Route 7: Northern Bus Station – Phu Bai Industrial Park – Lang Co.
  • Route 10: Dong Ba Bus Station – Cau Hai.
  • Route 11: Northern Bus Station – Phu Bai Industrial Park – Vinh Hien.
• Operating hours: 4:45 AM–10:15 PM, frequency 30–60 minutes/trip.

Note: Buses are suitable for passengers traveling with little luggage. Check bus schedules at the airport junction to avoid long waits.

Airport Shuttle

• Travel time: 20–30 minutes.
• Cost: ~50,000 VND/person.
• Advantages: 24/7 operation, drop-off upon request, suitable for early morning or late night flights.
• How to book: Contact the ticket counter at the arrival hall of the airport.

Motorbike Rental

• Cost: 90,000–200,000 VND/day (manual bike: 90,000–130,000 VND; scooter: 130,000–200,000 VND).
• Advantages: Flexible schedule, suitable for exploring tourist attractions in Hue.
• Note: Request bike pick-up at the airport and thoroughly check vehicle documents and condition before renting.

Hotel Transfer Service

Many hotels in Hue provide free or paid airport pickup services (negotiate in advance). Contact your hotel prior to arrival to arrange transportation.

For a smooth trip, please keep the following tips in mind:

Preparation Before Arriving at the Airport

• Required documents: Bring original ID card/passport, birth certificate (for children under 14 years old). For international travelers, prepare a visa if required.
• Online Check-in: Use the airline's app or website to check in in advance, saving time at the airport.
• Check Flight Schedule: Track flight information via website or app to update departure times, boarding gates, or schedule changes.

At the Airport

• Check-in Times:
  • Check-in counters open: 2 hours before departure.
  • Check-in counters close: 30 minutes before departure.
• Security: Place metal items and liquids (under 100ml) in the inspection tray. Follow security staff instructions.
• Enjoy Amenities: Use free Wi-Fi, explore dining counters, or relax at the VIP lounge if needed.

Baggage

• Carry-on Baggage: Maximum 7kg, maximum dimensions 56x36x23 cm.
• Checked Baggage: Usually 15–20kg free (depending on airline). Contact airline call center to purchase extra baggage if needed.
• Prohibited Items: Do not bring knives, sharp objects, lithium batteries exceeding allowed capacity, or liquids over 100ml.

Cost-Saving Tips

• Book tickets early through reputable agencies like Aivivu or Sanvemaybay to catch cheap prices.
• Choose buses or airport shuttles to save on travel costs.
• Check airline promotion programs, especially during off-peak seasons (September–November, February–April).

Hue Phu Bai Airport is not only an important stopover but also a bridge bringing visitors closer to the poetic beauty of Hue. With detailed information on flight schedules, services, and travel experiences, we hope you have gathered useful insights to make your trip more complete and convenient. If you are planning to explore Hue over several days, do not miss these multi-day Hue tours to fully experience the culture, cuisine, and scenery here. In particular, Sovaba Travel will accompany you in supporting flight bookings and designing suitable travel itineraries, helping you comfortably enjoy every moment. Contact Sovaba Travel via hotline 0934.733.223 today for detailed advice and special deals for your upcoming Hue trip!