Phung-Duc Airport

Phung-Duc Airport (BMV) is not merely an air gateway, but the starting point into the very heart of the coffee capital of Vietnam. It is from here that your acquaintance with the colourful Central Highlands, its boundless plantations, impressive waterfalls, and distinctive culture begins. Although the airport does not impress with its size, it plays a key role in the region's transport system, effectively connecting Buon Ma Thuot with the country's largest cities.

The main advantage of Phung-Duc Airport is its strategic location. It serves as the primary transport hub for travellers wishing to explore Dak Lak province and the entire Central Highlands. The airport handles regular flights to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and other important tourist and business centres of Vietnam, making it a convenient point for planning routes around the country.

The airport terminal is modern, compact, and very convenient for navigation. There is none of the hustle and bustle of large international hubs here, allowing passengers to quickly pass through all pre-flight formalities. Travellers have access to several cafes where one can drink a cup of authentic local coffee, souvenir shops, and official taxi stands that will take you to the city centre in approximately 20-30 minutes.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it is recommended to contact the airport directly. Below are the main contact details for Phung-Duc Airport (BMV).

• Official Website: The official Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV) portal has a page dedicated to Buon Ma Thuot Airport: vietnamairport.vn/buonmathuotairport
• Information Desk Phone: (84-262) 3862280
• Address: Km 12, Quốc lộ 27, Xã Hòa Thắng, TP. Buôn Ma Thuột, Tỉnh Đắk Lắk, Vietnam
• Email: vanthu.bmt@vietnamairport.vn
• Social Media: Dedicated social media pages for the airport may not exist. Current information can be found on the official website.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of loss or damage to luggage, it is recommended to first contact your airline's representative at the airport. Additional information can be obtained via the information desk phone.
• Passenger Support Service: For general inquiries and assistance, please contact the main airport phone number.

Getting to Phung-Duc Airport (IATA: BMV) from the city centre of Buon Ma Thuot is quite simple, although the choice of transport is not as wide as in the metropolises of Vietnam. The airport is located approximately 11 km east of the city, and the journey usually takes 20-30 minutes depending on traffic conditions.

Taxi and Transfer — the most popular and convenient method. Cars from official taxi companies, such as Mai Linh or Vinasun, are always on duty at the terminal exit. You can also use mobile apps to book a car, for example, Grab. A taxi ride to the city centre will cost approximately 150,000 – 250,000 Vietnamese dong. For greater peace of mind, you can book a transfer through your hotel in advance.

Motorbike Taxi (Xe Om) — a budget-friendly and authentic option for travellers without bulky luggage. This is a great way to experience the local atmosphere, but be sure to negotiate the price in advance. A motorbike taxi ride will cost significantly less, in the region of 70,000 – 100,000 dong.

Public Transport, unfortunately, is not a reliable option for travelling to Phung-Duc Airport. Direct bus routes from the city centre to the airport are absent or their schedule is unstable, so tourists are not recommended to rely on them.

Car Rental and Parking. If you plan to actively travel around Dak Lak province, you can rent a car, often with a driver, which is a common practice in Vietnam. For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented transport, parking is provided. It is suitable for both short-term and long-term stays.

If your itinerary through Vietnam includes several cities, it is worth knowing about other airports in the region. The nearest alternatives are Lien Khuong Airport in Da Lat (about 105 km) and Cam Ranh International Airport in Nha Trang (approximately 140 km), from where you can continue your journey along the coast or further inland.

Buon Ma Thuot Airport (BMV) is a modern and compact air hub distinguished by a simple and clear structure for passengers. You will not have to worry about complex navigation, as there is one passenger terminal operating here, serving both departing and arriving flights.

The terminal layout is intuitive. All infrastructure is located in one building, making movement around the airport fast and convenient. Upon entering, you find yourself in the general hall with the check-in zone where airline counters are located. After passing check-in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to pre-flight security screening, followed by a comfortable waiting hall with boarding gates. The arrival zone is located in the same part of the building but has a separate exit after the baggage claim hall.

Since there is only one terminal, you will not need transfers or shuttles to move between different zones. Everything is within walking distance. Thanks to the airport's compact size, passing through all formalities, including flight check-in and security screening, usually takes little time. On average, this takes about 30-45 minutes, however, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure to avoid rushing, especially during peak hours.

For convenient navigation throughout the terminal, signs are installed in Vietnamese and English. The simple and logical layout allows you to easily find the necessary counter, boarding gate, or baggage claim area. Even if you are here for the first time, you will orient yourself quickly without any difficulty.

The history of Phung-Duc Airport (BMV) is closely intertwined with the history of the entire Central Highlands region of Vietnam. Its journey began in the mid-20th century when it was built by the French military as an airstrip for their needs. Due to its strategic location in the heart of the region, the airfield quickly became an important military facility, which was subsequently actively used during the Vietnam War.

Originally known as Hoa Binh Airfield, it served as a key base for the South Vietnamese Air Force and their allies. A major event in the airport's history was March 1975, when, during the decisive battle for the city of Buon Ma Thuot, control over the facility passed to North Vietnamese forces. This event became a turning point in the country's history and, consequently, in the fate of the airport.

After the war ended, a new era began — the transformation from a military facility into a civil airport. It received its current name and was refitted to serve passenger flights. Over the years, as tourist and business traffic grew, the airport was modernized repeatedly. A key stage was the construction and commissioning of a new passenger terminal in 2011, which allowed for a significant increase in capacity and improved service quality.

Today, Phung-Duc represents the modern air gateway of Dak Lak province. An interesting fact: the airport plays a huge role not only in tourism but also in the economy, as Buon Ma Thuot is considered the "coffee capital" of Vietnam. It is through this airport that a significant part of the world-famous Vietnamese coffee is transported. Thus, the former military airfield has turned into a vital transport hub contributing to the development and prosperity of the entire region.

Phung-Duc Airport (BMV), serving as the air gateway to Buon Ma Thuot city and Dak Lak province, offers passengers a modern and convenient terminal. Despite its regional status and small size, everything necessary for a comfortable wait for your flight is available here.

Cafes, Restaurants, and Shops
The gastronomic feature of the airport is directly linked to the region's status: Buon Ma Thuot is called the "coffee capital" of Vietnam. In local cafes, travellers can enjoy a cup of strong and aromatic Vietnamese coffee. The menu also features national dishes such as Pho soup and Banh Mi baguettes. In small shops, you can buy souvenirs, handicrafts, and, of course, the famous local coffee as a gift.

Lounges and VIP Service
For passengers wishing to spend time before departure in a more tranquil environment, a Business Lounge (CIP Lounge) is available. Visitors are offered comfortable seating, access to fresh press, television, a separate Wi-Fi network, as well as a buffet with snacks and beverages.

Connectivity, Internet, and Finance
Free Wi-Fi works throughout the terminal. Charging stands and sockets for mobile devices are installed in the waiting areas. ATMs of local banks for cash withdrawals are located in the public zones of the arrival and departure halls.

Services for Families and Passengers with Reduced Mobility
The terminal is equipped with mother and child rooms where parents can change or feed their baby in privacy. For passengers with health limitations, a barrier-free environment has been created: there are ramps, elevators, and specially equipped restrooms. Airport staff are ready to provide assistance during boarding and disembarking (it is better to request the escort service in advance through the airline).

Medical Assistance
A medical point functions in the terminal building, staffed with the necessary means to provide first aid in emergency situations.

Hotels and Business Services
There is no own hotel in the airport transit zone, as it serves primarily short domestic flights. However, you can reach the city centre of Buon Ma Thuot, where a wide selection of hotels is located, by taxi in just 15–20 minutes. Full-fledged conference halls are not provided in the terminal, but basic office services (photocopying, fax) may be available in the business lounge.

Phung-Duc Airport (BMV) is relatively small, so the choice of dining establishments here is less extensive than in major international hubs. Nevertheless, passengers will not go hungry: the terminal offers quality service, focusing attention on the region's main pride — coffee and fresh local produce.

Location and Establishments
Food outlets at the airport are divided into two main zones:

• General Zone (Landside): Small cafes and kiosks are located in the check-in hall and the waiting area for well-wishers. Here you can have a drink or a snack before passing through security. This is the best place for a quiet farewell lunch with friends or family, as well-wishers are not allowed into the secure zone.
• Departure Zone (Airside): After passing security control, passengers enter the waiting lounge, where the main food court and coffee shops are located. Here the choice of dishes is wider, and the atmosphere is more relaxed. Duty-free shops and souvenir stalls nearby also offer snacks and beverages for the journey.

Local Cuisine and Specialities
Since the airport serves the "coffee capital" of Vietnam, coffee here is a mandatory part of the programme. The menus of local coffee shops present various options: from classic Vietnamese coffee with condensed milk (Cà phê sữa đá) to strong black espresso made from Robusta grown on the Dak Lak plateau.

For a full lunch, it is worth choosing traditional Vietnamese soups, such as Pho (Phở) or local variations of noodles with broth. Ideally suited for a quick and filling snack is Banh Mi (Bánh mì) — a crispy baguette with pâté, meat, herbs, and vegetables.

Dietary Requirements
Specialised restaurants for vegans or Halal menus are generally not available at Phung-Duc Airport due to its small size.

• For Vegetarians: You can order a "plain" Banh Mi (only with vegetables and cheese/egg, if you consume them) or ask for noodles without meat (chay), however, it is worth clarifying the composition of the broth. Fresh tropical fruits are also available.
• Gluten-Free: Finding specialised dishes is difficult. It is recommended to choose rice with vegetables or fruit, avoiding wheat flour products and soy sauces.
• Halal: Certified Halal dishes are usually not presented, so passengers strictly observing these rules are recommended to limit themselves to vegetarian options or packaged snacks with clear ingredients.

Prices and Opening Hours
The price range at the airport is higher than in the city but remains affordable by international standards. A cup of coffee will cost approximately 40,000 – 70,000 VND, and a hot dish (soup or rice with meat) — 80,000 – 150,000 VND. Main establishments open an hour before the first flight (usually around 06:00 AM) and close after the departure of the last aircraft in the evening. There are no 24-hour restaurants in the terminal.

Recommendations
If you are short on time, grab a ready-made baguette sandwich and coffee to go in the departure zone. If there is more than an hour before the flight, we recommend leisurely enjoying a hot soup in a cafe overlooking the runway to recharge your energy before the flight.

Travelling through Phung-Duc Airport in the city of Buon Ma Thuot will go smoothly if you prepare in advance. To avoid unnecessary rushing, arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. During national holidays and the tourist season, it is better to allow extra time, as queues for check-in and security may be longer than usual.

To save time, use online check-in, which is offered by most airlines. This will allow you to head straight to baggage drop or, if you are travelling light, to the security control zone. The screening procedure is standard, but be prepared to present your passport and boarding pass several times. Keep all necessary documents close at hand.

Seat selection on the plane is also best done in advance, during online check-in. If you want to enjoy the views, choose a window seat. For those who value the ability to stand up and leave freely, an aisle seat is suitable. Passengers with small children or those who prefer a more stable flight are recommended seats in the front part of the cabin.

Hand luggage rules at airports in Vietnam comply with international standards. Liquids can be carried in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. All sharp objects, including manicure scissors, must be checked in as luggage. Portable batteries (power banks) should be carried only in hand luggage. Be sure to check current rules on your airline's website, as there may be restrictions on carrying certain products, for example, durian or fish sauce.

If you have a connecting flight, study the airport map in advance. Ensure that you do not need to collect and re-check luggage for the next flight — this information is usually indicated on your itinerary receipt. When passing through customs control, be prepared to declare large amounts of cash and expensive items. As a rule, this procedure is quick and hassle-free for tourists.

To save money, book flight tickets and pay for luggage in advance online — this is almost always cheaper than doing so at the airport. Also, consider the possibility of travelling during the low tourist season, when flight prices are significantly lower. At the airport itself, you can save money by bringing an empty water bottle and filling it after passing security at special fountains.

In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative to obtain information about the new departure time and possible compensation (water, meals). Monitor updates on information boards. Having a book, a charged power bank, and headphones will help pass the waiting time in comfort.