Con Dao Airport: Gateway to the Beautiful Island Of Con Dao
Introduction
The Con Dao Islands are an incredible hidden gem just off the southern coast of mainland Vietnam, with Con Dao Airport (IATA: VCS) as your passage to this slice of tropical paradise. A vital element in the connection between visitors and the magnificent nature as well as history of this special destination, Con Dao Airport is considered to be among the best value airports for your money.
Airlines and Destinations
At present, Con Dao Airport is only providing domestic flights connecting to two cities in the country. Regular flight services are operated by Bamboo Airways and Vietnam Airlines/VASCO between Hanoi (HAN) or Ho Chi Minh City (SGN), with direct access to the Con Dao Islands.
Passenger & Flight Count
Con Dao Airport is a smaller-scale airport with low landing and take-off capacity. In recent years, the airport hosts an average of about 200,000 passengers per year and sees a couple of daily mainland flights.
How to Get Here
ACCESS
Con Dao airport is very easy to reach. You can book direct flights from major cities in Vietnam to reach this island, and the airport is situated close to the main town of Con Dao. If you are a long way from the airport, it is easily reached by road and there will be transportation available for all visitors.
Parking
Parking spaces at Con Dao Airport are limited and include a small parking lot for those who drive their own cars to the airport. Travelers are warned to prepare ahead of time, as well as considering other forms of transport, including taking a taxi or the hotel shuttle, in order to reach the airport.
Transportation Prices
Transportation costs to and from Con Dao Airport vary by means of transport. Taxis and private transfers are usually higher-end services, whereas public buses or shuttles would be a budget-friendly option. Guests are advised to look into available choices and make bookings early on for the best costs.
Terminal Layout
Con Dao Airport, a small regional airport, has a nice and not-complex terminal design. The terminal building is a single-story facility with all the usual features like check-in, security, and very limited retail amenities.
Navigate the Airport
Due to its small, user-friendly layout, Con Dao Airport is easy enough for travelers to get around. The terminal is not too large and very easy to navigate for both incoming and outgoing passengers; nor could I see any lack of proper signage.
Getting Between Terminals
Con Dao Airport has only one terminal, so you do not need to worry about moving between areas across the airport. The facility is concise, with all operations dealt with within the one terminal building by category of aircraft on approach and departure.
Services and Amenities
Although not extensive, Con Dao Airport has the basic services and amenities that passengers will need. It has a small waiting room, basic toilets, and serves light snacks in the small café.
Restaurants and Shops
While Con Dao Airport has just one café catering for on-site F&B requirements, with dining and shopping at the airport limited. Visitors are encouraged to pack and bring any snacks they may need.
Security and Customs
Similar to all airports in Vietnam, security and immigration procedures are enforced at the Con Dao Island Airport. This check can slow down the boarding process, so arriving at the airport with enough time before being called in to clear these checkpoints is essential.
Accessibility
Con Dao Airport strives to guarantee easy access facilities and services for all travelers. The terminal building and its facilities are accessible to disabled passengers, and staff is trained for assisting or accommodating those people requiring special help.
Travel Tips
- Book flights to Con Dao Airport well in advance as there are only limited options available and they run out fairly quickly.
- Travelling light is recommended as the terminal and transportation options are limited.
- Take a look at an online terminal map that helps familiarize you with where everything is in order to minimize having to work your way through it all.
- Add time insurance to your schedule between security, Customs, and possible delays or surprise circumstances.
- After landing in Con Dao Airport, don't be surprised as some of the most stunning beaches and hiking trails at top places in the Con Dao islands are not easily accessible.