Flying from the United States to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Airlines provides direct flights from San Francisco with one-way fares starting at USD 503 (**), along with numerous connecting flight options from other major US cities. Direct flights typically take around 15 hours, while connecting flights can take 19 hours or more, depending on layover times and routes. To help you plan effectively, continue reading to discover detailed flight schedules, fare options, and travel tips.
(Updated on 23 May 2025. Schedule information is subject to operational changes.)
1. Detailed Information on The Flights to Ho Chi Minh City
Vietnam Airlines operates direct and connecting flights from major US cities, providing flexible options to reach this vibrant destination. Below are the primary routing options available from key American airports.
Direct Flights
|
|
Distance |
Flight time (*) |
Flight Frequency (*) |
|
San Francisco → Ho Chi Minh (SFO → SGN) |
13,000km (8,000 miles) |
15 hours and 40 minutes |
1 flight/day, 4 days/week |
Transit Flights
|
|
Distance |
Flight time (*) |
Flight Frequency (*) |
|
San Diego → Ho Chi Minh (SAN → SGN) Transit options:
|
13,318km (8275 miles) |
From 21 hours and 41 minutes to 40 hours and 19 minutes |
5 - 6 flights/day, 6 days/week |
|
Atlanta → Ho Chi Minh (ATL → SGN) Transit options:
|
14,947km (9288 miles) |
From 26 hours and 55 minutes to 48 hours |
About 20 flights daily |
|
Los Angeles → Ho Chi Minh (LAX → SGN) Transit options:
|
13,146km (8168 miles) |
From 19 hours and 20 minutes to 42 hours and 30 minutes |
About 24 flights daily |
|
Washington → Ho Chi Minh (IDA → SGN) Transit options:
|
14,478km (8996 miles) |
About 33 hours and 20 minutes |
6 flights/week |
Note:
*Please note that departure and arrival times are estimates only. The schedule may vary slightly due to external factors, such as weather and airport conditions.
**Fare prices are subject to change due to seasonal demand, fuel prices, operating costs, and economic conditions.
2. How to Get to the Departure Airports and Ho Chi Minh City Center?
For a smooth travel experience, plan your airport transfers carefully.
2.1. How to Get to the Departure Airport?
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Departure Airports |
Transportation - Travel Time - Estimated Cost |
|
San Diego (SAN) |
|
|
Los Angeles (LAX) |
|
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San Francisco (SFO) |
|
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Washington (IAD) |
|
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Atlanta (ATL) |
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2.2. How to Get from Tan Son Nhat International Airport to Ho Chi Minh City Center?
|
Transportation |
Instruction |
Estimated One-way Cost |
|
Public Bus |
Take bus No. 109 from International (T1) or bus No. 152 from Domestic (T2). Buses run from 05:30 AM to 11:00 PM with a 15 - 20 minute frequency. |
VND 10,000 - 20,000 (approximately USD 0.40 - 0.80) per person |
|
Taxi |
Available 24/7 at official taxi ranks outside the arrivals hall. Avoid unlicensed taxis. Travel time is 15 - 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Metered fare. |
VND 150,000 - 200,000 (USD 6 - 8) |
|
Ride-Hailing Apps |
Book rides via apps, and pick up at designated airport areas. Prices may surge during peak times or in bad weather. Travel time is similar to a taxi. |
VND 130,000 - 170,000 (USD 5 - 7) (variable) |
|
Hotel Airport Pick-up |
Pre-booked hotel transfer service, driver meets you at the arrival terminal with a name sign. Most hotels use 16-seat vehicles. |
VND 300,000 - 500,000 (USD 12 - 20), varies by hotel and vehicle type |
3. 4 Tips When Taking A Flight From the United States to Ho Chi Minh City
To guarantee a smooth and pleasant journey from the United States to Ho Chi Minh City, these key travel recommendations will facilitate your long-haul flight experience and readiness for your trip to Vietnam.
3.1. Find the Best Flight Deals
Vietnam Airlines provides a range of attractive discounts and promotions, ensuring you enjoy our 4-star service while benefiting from excellent value on your journey to Vietnam. Below are some of our top offers:
- Group Booking: Save up to 15% on Economy Lite fares for groups of 4 or more. Book online to enjoy waived ticketing fees, 24/7 customer support, and double bonus miles for Lotusmiles members.
- Early Booking: Book at least 45 days in advance to receive a 5 - 10% discount on your fare.
- Lotusmiles Membership: Get up to 5% off airfares and double your bonus or upgrade miles when booking on our website or app.
- Student Promotions: Students receive a 5% discount on domestic and international itineraries to/from Vietnam, plus an additional free baggage allowance. This applies to Economy Classic and Lite fares. See details on the LotuStudents program here.
Reach further with LotuStudents (Source: Vietnam Airlines)
3.2. Choose a Suitable Seat For Your Flight
Since preferred seats fill up quickly, especially on popular routes during peak seasons, be sure to book your seat selection early in the reservation process.
- Passengers can select an aisle seat for easier movement during the long 17+ hour flight to Vietnam.
- Try to avoid seats near galleys and restrooms to minimize noise and foot traffic.
Alternatively, consider upgrading to Premium Economy, which offers extra legroom and enhanced meal service for greater comfort. For long-haul flights, you can choose Sky Sofa for added comfort during your journey.
Advance Seat Selection to Raise Flying Comfort - Vietnam Airlines
3.3. Pack Appropriately
For Ho Chi Minh City’s tropical climate, where temperatures range from 77°F to 95°F (25°C to 35°C) year-round with high humidity, pack light and breathable clothing. Be sure to include essentials in your carry-on, such as medications, a change of clothes, toiletries, and entertainment to ease the long flight. Besides, a light jacket or sweater is recommended for air-conditioned spaces and the airplane cabin.
3.4. Prepare for Time Zone and Jet Lag
Since Ho Chi Minh City is 12 to 15 hours ahead of US time zones, depending on your departure city, begin adjusting your sleep schedule 2 to 3 days before departure. Additionally, stay well hydrated during the flight by drinking plenty of water and limiting alcohol and caffeine intake.
4. Must-Visit Attractions in Ho Chi Minh City
Discover these iconic places that capture the true heartbeat of Saigon:
|
Destination |
Highlights |
|
Saigon Skydeck |
Located just 7km from the airport in Bitexco Financial Tower, this 49th-floor observation deck offers stunning 360-degree city views. Perfect for first-time visitors to get oriented with the layout. |
|
Jade Emperor Pagoda |
Only 5km from the airport, this atmospheric temple dedicated to the Taoist Jade Emperor features intricate wood carvings, incense-filled halls, and a peaceful turtle pond. |
|
Ben Thanh Market |
The city's most famous market features hundreds of stalls selling silk clothing, handicrafts, fresh produce, and street food. |
|
War Remnants Museum |
A powerful museum documenting the Vietnam War from a Vietnamese perspective with extensive photo exhibitions, military equipment displays, and historical artifacts. |
|
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon |
An iconic French colonial landmark from the 1870s featuring neo-Romanesque architecture with red brick facades and twin bell towers in the city center. |
|
Cu Chi Tunnels |
An extensive underground tunnel network from the Vietnam War where visitors can crawl through original tunnels, see booby traps, and learn about guerrilla warfare tactics. |
Discover Saigon Skydeck – Vietnam’s Iconic Viewpoint at Bitexco Tower (Source: Internet)
Ben Thanh Market - Historical Symbol of Saigon (Source: Internet)
5. FAQs about Flights to Ho Chi Minh City
5.1. How long Is The Flight from the U.S. to Ho Chi Minh City?
Direct flights from major U.S. cities such as San Francisco to Ho Chi Minh City typically take around 15 hours. However, if you choose connecting flights, travel time may extend the total journey time to 19 hours or more.
5.2. Do I Need a Visa, Passport, or Any Related Documents?
All passengers must have a valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity beyond their planned stay in Vietnam.
Currently, U.S. citizens require a visa to enter Vietnam unless eligible for visa exemptions under specific conditions (such as certain short stays or diplomatic reasons).
5.3. Can I Check In Online for Flights to Ho Chi Minh City?
Yes, Vietnam Airlines offers online check-in services. Passengers can usually check in online between 24 hours and 1 hour before the scheduled departure time. Be sure to print your boarding pass or download it to your mobile device before arriving at the airport.
The information provided above offers a comprehensive overview of flights from the United States to Ho Chi Minh City, including schedules and ticket pricing. If you require assistance with booking or have any inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact us for professional support.