Van Don Airport: Location, infrastructure, flight routes & transportation

Van Don Airport stands out not only with its modern infrastructure and capability to accommodate wide-body aircraft, but also provides a convenient experience with a terminal rich in local cultural identity. Combined with a flexible transportation connection system and attentive services, this aviation hub is gradually affirming its role as an important gateway to northern Vietnam. Let's explore the outstanding features of Van Don Airport through this article by Vietnam Airlines.

1. Introduction to Van Don Airport

Van Don Airport is the first international airport in Vietnam invested and operated by the private sector. Located in Quang Ninh Province (tỉnh Quảng Ninh) - the gateway to the world for the Northeast region - this airport plays an important role in developing local tourism and economy.

• Full name: Van Don International Airport (Cảng hàng không quốc tế Vân Đồn)
• English name: Van Don International Airport
• Address: Doan Ket Commune (Xã Đoàn Kết), Van Don District (huyện Vân Đồn), Quang Ninh Province (tỉnh Quảng Ninh)
• Scale: 325 hectares, capacity to serve 2.5 million passengers/year (phase 1)
• Number of terminals: 1 international passenger terminal
• Management: Sun Group invests & operates

1.1. Location of Van Don Airport

Van Don Airport is located about 50km from Ha Long City (thành phố Hạ Long) and about 15km from Cai Rong Town center (trung tâm thị trấn Cái Rồng). Thanks to its strategic location, it conveniently connects to famous tourist destinations such as Ha Long Bay (Vịnh Hạ Long), Co To Island (đảo Cô Tô), Quan Lan (Quan Lạn), and Mong Cai (Móng Cái).

1.2. Infrastructure and structure of Van Don Airport

The airport is equipped with a 3,600m runway, capable of accommodating modern wide-body aircraft such as Boeing 787 and Airbus A350. The passenger terminal has an area of over 27,000m², designed in a modern style while maintaining the rich cultural identity of Quang Ninh. The aviation equipment system here meets international standards, including advanced ILS CAT II lighting and navigation systems. The spacious parking area comes with many amenities such as VIP lounges, restaurants, and duty-free shops, providing convenient and comfortable experiences for passengers.

Van Don Airport is the first international airport invested by the private sector in Vietnam (Source: Internet)

2. Popular flight routes at Van Don Airport

Currently, Van Don Airport operates domestic flight routes with stable frequency, especially during peak tourism seasons. Below are some popular routes:

2.1. From Ho Chi Minh City to Quang Ninh

• Departure point: Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) (Sân bay Tân Sơn Nhất)
• Destination: Van Don Airport (VDO)
• Flight duration: About 02 hours 05 minutes
• Flight frequency: 1 flight/day, 3 days/week (Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday)
• Ticket price: From 1,462,000 VND/one way

2.2. From Da Nang to Quang Ninh

• Departure point: Da Nang International Airport (DAD) (Sân bay quốc tế Đà Nẵng)
• Connection point: Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) (Sân bay Tân Sơn Nhất)
• Destination: Van Don Airport (VDO)
• Flight duration: About 08 hours 50 minutes (connection time about 5 hours 15 minutes)
• Flight frequency: 3-5 flights/day
• Ticket price: From 2,277,000 VND/one way

Vietnam Airlines connects Van Don Airport with major cities nationwide (Source: Internet)

Hunt for promotional tickets to Van Don easier than ever with Vietnam Airlines today

3. Transportation from Van Don Airport to city center

Below are some popular means of transport from the airport to Ha Long (Hạ Long), Cam Pha (Cẩm Phả), or Cai Rong (Cái Rồng):

4. Important notes when arriving at Van Don Airport

For flights at Van Don Airport to proceed smoothly, passengers should understand some important notes about timing, baggage, and weather conditions. Below are things you need to prepare well before departure:

• Arrive at airport early: If flying from Van Don, you should be at the airport at least 90 minutes before departure, especially if traveling from distant areas like Ha Long or Cam Pha to avoid being late for check-in procedures.
  
• Weather considerations: Van Don is a coastal area often affected by fog and heavy rain, especially from June to September. Passengers should check flight status before departure to handle timely changes due to weather conditions.
  
• Baggage regulations: Each airline has specific regulations on weight and size of carry-on and checked baggage. You should check this information on your e-ticket or the airline's official website to avoid unexpected additional fees.
  
• Monitor flight information: Always pay attention to Flight Information Display Systems (FIDS) in the terminal area to update departure times, boarding gates, and any changes.
  
• Identify boarding gate early: Right after passing security screening, find and identify the boarding gate location, and be there 15-20 minutes before gate closure to ensure you don't miss the flight.
  
• Prepare complete documents: Don't forget to bring your Citizen Identity Card, passport, or valid identification documents, especially when flying internationally or checking in with e-tickets.
  
• Prioritize round-trip tickets or tourism packages: If you come to Van Don to tour Ha Long, booking round-trip tickets or tour packages including flight tickets and shuttle service will help save time and costs.
  

Van Don Airport is gradually becoming the new aviation center of northern Vietnam, contributing to promoting tourism and economic development in the region (Source: Vietnam Airlines)

With modern infrastructure, convenient services, and smooth transportation connections, Van Don Airport is an ideal gateway to explore the beauty of Quang Ninh and surrounding areas. Don't miss the opportunity to experience safe and comfortable journeys with Vietnam Airlines, the prestigious national airline that always accompanies you on every flight. Book tickets today to receive many attractive offers!