Vung Tau Airport: The Charm of Vietnam's Coast
Introduction
Vung Tau Airport (IATA: VTG, ICAO: VVVT) sits at the center of Vietnam's southern province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau – an essential port to this beautiful seaside city. A small airport in a great spot, it provides essential access to the wonders of one of Vietnam's most appealing destinations.
Airlines and Destinations
Vung Tau Airport is mainly used for domestic flights in Vietnam, with carriers such as Vietjet Air, Bamboo Airways, and the national flag carrier performing daily routes to Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi. Although it does not presently serve any international destinations, the airport is well connected for travel through central and southern Vietnam, particularly along the coast.
Passengers and Flights
Vung Tau is a fairly minor regional airport by passenger volume, expected to handle approximately 500,000 passengers per year. The airport has a relatively modest flight schedule — just enough daily departures and arrivals to meet the needs of business or leisure travelers.
How to Get Here
As there is no international terminal at Vung Tau Airport, most travelers to this destination will arrive via Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City (IATA: SGN), from where it's a short journey by road or hydrofoil into Vung Tau. Travelers from Ho Chi Minh City can reach the coastal destination by private vehicle, taxi, or public buses.
Parking
On-airport parking at Vung Tau Airport is limited, mainly catering to private vehicles and taxis. Plan ahead for your transportation, as visitor parking is limited and fills up fast during the busiest travel periods.
Transportation Prices
However, the expense of traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau will vary depending on the method you choose. Taxis are the easiest choice, which should cost about VND 155,000-370,000 (around USD $6-$15) for the journey. In addition, travelers can take public buses at ticket prices ranging between VND 165,000 and VND 320,000 (between USD 6-12).
Terminal Layout
The airport itself is quite small, consisting solely of one terminal that serves as both the international and domestic divisions. Its terminal houses the usual essentials like check-in counters, security checkpoints, and a few retail and dining options.
Navigate the Airport
Vung Tau Airport is one of the smallest airports in Asia, but this small size has been combined with a straightforward and efficient passenger journey. Signs are visible, and the terminal design is easy for travelers to understand and quickly reach their respective gates or key connecting areas.
Getting Between Terminals
Because Vung Tau Airport has only one terminal, passengers do not need to move between terminals. Its terminal handles all incoming and outgoing flights.
Services and Amenities
Vung Tau Airport may not have the wide array of services and amenities present in large international hubs, but it does offer travelers their basic needs. Passengers can still find basic facilities in the terminal, such as restrooms, ATMs, and a minimal number of food service options.
Restaurants and Shops
It has a very limited selection of food and retail services, serving mainly local travelers. Visitors can enjoy a few dining options, as well as casual fast food and convenience stores or souvenir shops.
Security and Customs
The airport follows national protocol for airports; anyone flying from a Vietnamese regional airport to Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City must pass through security. In the same vein of mitigating passenger congestion, airport clearance is also managed for customs purposes with offices at arrival and departure.
Accessibility
The airport is very user-friendly for people who are physically challenged. Besides designated parking spots, ramps and toilets adapted to comply with all ADA requirements are available in the terminal facilities. Travelers who require extra assistance are recommended to contact their airline or the airport staff to ensure an easy journey.
Travel Tips
If you want to experience beautiful natural landscapes in Vung Tau, do not miss a visit to the Christ the King Statue, Nghinh Phong Cape, or the charming beaches. Treat yourself to the delicious seafood that the region is best known for and soak up some of its colorful seaside atmosphere. Convenient to the airport and full of attractions, Vung Tau is a must-visit coastal destination in Vietnam.