The Gateway to Central Vietnam's Enchanting Wonders: Vinh International Airport
Introduction
Vinh International Airport (IATA: VII, ICAO: VVVH) serves as a crucial northern Central Vietnam transportation hub that opens the doors to the region's rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking natural beauty to travelers from all over the world. The airport is known for its modern facilities and a broad spectrum of services that make taking the first step into the magical realms of Vinh City and its surroundings comfortable and enjoyable.
Airlines and Destinations
Currently, Vinh Airport serves domestic flights within Vietnam. The longest available route connects it to Can Tho (VCA) and spans a distance of 372 miles/599 km, which is traveled for approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes. The most frequent destinations are from Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) and Hanoi (HAN), which are the main two aviation centers in the country.
Passengers and Flights
The number of passengers served by Vinh Airport has grown steadily in recent years. Between 2002 and 2015, the annual percentage change in passenger numbers equaled 43.89%, which was the most substantial growth rate in Vietnam. In 2018, the airport welcomed 1.8 million travelers to become a critical transportation hub for the region.
How to Get Here
Reaching Vinh International Airport is easy: the most time-efficient option would involve taking a taxi, which will get you from the airport to the city center in only 5-10 minutes, depending on the local traffic. Alternatively, you could examine public transportation options, such as those offered by Vinh City's bus network, to find a suitable route to the airport.
Parking
Vinh International Airport offers parking opportunities to meet the needs of its passengers. Whether you need to leave your car behind for your journey or are planning to park for a quick drop-off or pick-up, the airport's parking facilities have a quick and efficient solution.
Transportation Price
The transportation fare between Vinh International Airport and the inner city is reasonably easy on your pocket. Taxi fares will range from 70,000-100,000 VND ($3-$4 USD) [2], whereas public bus tickets can be purchased for as cheaply as 15,000 VND (~$0.65 USD) [1].
Terminal Layout
The terminal building of Vinh International Airport is a 2-storey construction with a total floor area of 11,706 square meters. The construction of this modern facility was funded by the Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV) with nearly VND1.2 trillion, bringing comfort to passengers on every journey run from here through an efficient management process inside each terminal.
Navigate the Airport
Traversing Vinh International Airport is a simple process. On arrival, there is clear signage with helpful staff to assist you in the various parts like check-in counters, security checkpoints, and departure lounge. The airport is nice and compact, so it's easy enough to navigate your way around.
Getting Between Terminals
Since Vinh International Airport only has one terminal, you do not have to find your way between terminals. The facility is designed so that all arrivals and departures occur within the same convenient location.
Services and Amenities
The Airport provides the facilities to serve all kinds of passengers, offering a range of services and amenities. Money exchange services are not available on-site, however, you can easily withdraw money from any of the ATMs in all airports or ask your hotel to change it for you. The airport has a large waiting area and good restrooms, as well as free Wi-Fi, just the right environment for a long layover so you won't be bored.
Restaurants and Shops
Offering standard restaurants and basic shopping outlets, there's a lot to take advantage of within the terminal. From Vietnamese street food to fast-food international chains, the dining options give travelers of all tastes a real range and choices on what they want to eat before taking off.
Security and Customs
For a smooth and quick process, strict security procedures are in place at Vinh International Airport for all passengers. You will need to check in when you arrive, go through security where your bag and belongings are scanned. The customs process is also expeditiously controlled, meaning that you can collect your baggage and exit the airport effortlessly.
Accessibility
Vinh International Airport is especially designed to support the needs of all passengers with disabilities. The terminal is also outfitted with ramps, elevators, and reserved parking for passengers who may need assistance. Furthermore, the airport crew is instructed to help people who may need it.
Travel Tips
Below are a few tips to make your experience at Vinh International Airport as rewarding as possible:
- Flying on less busy days, like a Tuesday or a Wednesday, can be easy to commute, and flights will not stress you out.
- Be aware of where things are and what services the airport has to offer before you travel so that everything goes smoothly.
- Patience: Set aside enough time for check-in and security checkpoints.
- Discover the surrounding dining and shopping near the terminal to experience more of Vinh City's dynamic environment.
- Take advantage of public transportation or arrange for ground transport prior to arrival, and effortlessly link the airport with your end point.