Can Tho Airport

Can Tho International Airport (VCA) is the main aerial gateway to the heart of the Mekong Delta, one of the most colourful and fertile regions of Vietnam. Officially opened for commercial traffic in 2011, this modern airport has become a key transport hub, significantly simplifying access to the floating markets, fruit orchards, and the unique culture of the country's south. Built on the site of a former military airfield, today it represents a spacious and convenient terminal, ready to welcome travellers from all over the world.

The main advantage of Can Tho Airport is its strategic location. It serves as a starting point for exploring the entire Mekong Delta, sparing tourists the need for a long overland transfer from Ho Chi Minh City. The airport is equipped with a 3,000-metre runway capable of handling medium-haul liners, such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 767. This ensures stable air connections with key cities in Vietnam, including Hanoi and Da Nang, as well as select international destinations.

The terminal infrastructure is designed with passenger comfort in mind and covers an area of over 20,000 square metres. Despite its relatively small size compared to giants like the airports in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, VCA offers all necessary services: check-in counters, waiting lounges, cafes, and shops. Its modernity and efficiency make travelling through Can Tho a pleasant and convenient start to getting acquainted with the amazing Mekong Delta region.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Can Tho International Airport (VCA). We recommend checking the official website for the most up-to-date data, especially before your trip.

• Official Website: vietnamairport.vn/cantho-international-airport
• Information Desk Phone: +84 (292) 3 844 337
• Address: 179B Le Hong Phong, Binh Thuy, Can Tho, Vietnam
• Email: canghangkhongqtcantho@acv.com.vn
• Social Media: The airport does not have actively updated official pages on popular social networks. The most reliable information is published on the official website.
• Lost and Found: If you cannot find your luggage, please contact your airline's representative at the airport first. You can also contact the airport's lost baggage service via the main phone number.
• Passenger Support: For all enquiries, you can contact the information desk at the phone number listed above or via the feedback form on the official website.

Getting to Can Tho International Airport (VCA) from Can Tho city centre is quite simple, with several convenient options available for any budget. The most common method is by taxi or booking a car via mobile apps popular in Vietnam, such as Grab. The journey from the central Ninh Kieu district usually takes 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. A taxi ride from official companies (e.g., Mai Linh or Vinasun) will cost approximately 150,000 – 250,000 Vietnamese Dong. A pre-booked transfer or a car via an app may cost slightly less and saves you the need to negotiate.

For solo travellers with light luggage, an excellent and very budget-friendly option is a motorbike taxi, known locally as "xe om". This is not only economical but also allows you to experience the true local atmosphere while manoeuvring through the flow of bikes. You can also book a motorbike taxi via the Grab app (GrabBike option). Such a trip will cost approximately 70,000 – 100,000 Dong. However, this method is not suitable for passengers with large suitcases.

Unfortunately, there is currently no direct and convenient public transport, such as city buses, running from the city centre directly to the airport. For tourists, this option would be extremely difficult and impractical, so it is better to choose one of the taxi services.

If you are travelling by rental car, getting to the airport is straightforward by following the signs. Can Tho Airport has a car park where you can leave your vehicle during your absence. You can also hire a car with a driver, which is a popular service for trips around the Mekong Delta and a convenient way for a family or small group to reach the airport.

Can Tho International Airport (VCA) is distinguished by a compact and clear structure, making it very convenient for travellers. The airport operates one passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. Thanks to this, you do not need to worry about transferring between different buildings — all procedures take place in one location.

The terminal has a simple and logical layout. Generally, it is divided into two main levels: the departure area is located on the upper floor, and the arrival area is on the lower floor. Navigation is intuitive, with signs in Vietnamese and English everywhere, so it is practically impossible to get lost here.

The Departure Zone includes check-in counters, security checkpoints, and passport control for international destinations. After completing formalities, passengers enter a clean and bright waiting hall with several boarding gates. The Arrival Zone consists of the baggage claim hall, customs control counters, and the exit to the city, where taxis and transfers await you.

One of the main advantages of Can Tho Airport is the speed of completing all procedures. Due to the low passenger traffic, flight check-in and security screening usually take significantly less time than in major airports. On average, all formalities take no more than 30-40 minutes, allowing you to arrive at the airport without a large buffer of time. For peace of mind, we still recommend arriving 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight and 2-3 hours before an international one.

The history of Can Tho International Airport (VCA) is a vivid example of transformation and development. Its journey began in the mid-1960s when it was built by the US Air Force as a major military facility, Binh Thuy Air Base. For many years, it played a key role in military operations in the Mekong Delta region.

After 1975, the facility came under the control of the Vietnam Air Force and was used primarily for military purposes for a long time, functioning for civilian transport under the name Tra Noc Airport with very limited capabilities. Radical changes began in the 21st century when a strategic decision was made to turn the former military base into the main aerial gateway for the entire region.

Large-scale reconstruction and modernisation of the airport started in 2006. The project was completed in January 2011, when the airport was officially opened with its new status — Can Tho International Airport. During the works, a new 3,000-metre runway and a modern passenger terminal were built, and advanced navigation equipment was installed. This allowed the airport to receive large airliners and service international flights.

The main achievement of the airport is its transformation into the largest and most modern transport hub in the Mekong Delta. This project substantially stimulated economic development, trade, and tourism in the region, which was previously accessible mainly by land or water. Interestingly, a facility created for military purposes today serves as a symbol of peaceful growth and openness, connecting this fertile part of Vietnam with the rest of the world.

Can Tho International Airport (VCA), being an important transport hub in the Mekong Delta, offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable start or end to their journey through Vietnam. Despite its relatively small size, the terminal is well-organised and equipped with modern amenities.

Before your flight, you can have a snack in one of the cafes or dine in a restaurant featuring both local and international cuisine. In the departure area, there are shops offering souvenirs, local handicrafts, and travel essentials. For those seeking privacy and extra comfort, a Business Lounge (VIP Lounge) is available, where you can relax in silence and enjoy snacks and beverages.

Throughout the terminal, passengers have access to free Wi-Fi, allowing you to stay in touch with loved ones or attend to work matters. The waiting halls are equipped with special zones for charging mobile phones and other gadgets. For financial matters, the airport has ATMs and currency exchange points where you can exchange money upon arrival or before departure.

The airport caters to all categories of passengers. For travellers with reduced mobility, ramps, accessible toilets, and an assistance service (recommended to be booked in advance) are provided. Families with small children can use the mother and child room. In case of necessity, a medical post is available at the airport, ready to provide first aid.

Although there are no hotels directly within the airport building, there are many hotels for every budget just a few minutes away by taxi. Specialised conference halls are not provided in the airport, but basic business services may be available in the VIP lounge.

Can Tho Airport (VCA), being primarily a regional transport hub, offers passengers basic but quite sufficient dining options before departure. Do not expect the gastronomic variety of major international hubs here; however, finding a place to drink coffee or have a snack will not be difficult. The main establishments are concentrated in the main terminal.

Most dining outlets are located in the public area (before security control), and there are also a few small cafes in the secure departure area. For a quick bite, sandwiches, pastries, or packaged snacks are perfect. If you have time and want something more substantial, look for counters preparing the famous Vietnamese sandwich "banh mi" or serving instant noodle soups, such as Pho.

Be sure to take the opportunity to try authentic Vietnamese iced coffee with condensed milk (cà phê sữa đá) — this is a great way to experience the local culture and perk up before your flight. Regarding dietary restrictions, choices for vegetarians, vegans, or people with gluten intolerance are very limited. It is best to carry your own snacks if you have strict dietary requirements or require Halal-certified specific options not readily available in general kiosks.

The price range at Can Tho Airport is moderate — higher than in the city, but quite affordable. Most cafes and kiosks operate according to the flight schedule, opening a few hours before the first departure and closing after the last one leaves. This ensures that you will have the opportunity to refresh yourself regardless of the time of your journey.

To ensure your journey through Can Tho Airport (VCA) goes smoothly, make use of these tips. Although it is not the largest airport in Vietnam, proper preparation will help avoid stress and save time.

Arrival Time at the Airport
For domestic flights within Vietnam, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure. If you have an international flight, it is better to arrive 3 hours in advance. This time is sufficient to calmly complete check-in, drop off luggage, and pass through security control without rushing.

Check-in and Security Control
Many airlines offer online check-in 24 hours before departure — this is an excellent way to save time. If you are travelling with hand luggage only, you can head straight to security screening. Have your passport and boarding pass ready in advance. When passing through security, be prepared to remove laptops, tablets, and liquids from your bag.

Seat Selection on the Plane
Flights departing from the city of Can Tho often offer picturesque views of the Mekong Delta. If you wish to admire the scenery, choose a window seat. If comfort and the ability to easily stand up and stretch are more important to you, your choice is an aisle seat.

Hand Luggage: Dos and Don'ts
It is prohibited to carry sharp objects, weapons, and flammable liquids in hand luggage. All liquids (shampoos, gels, perfumes) must be in containers of up to 100 ml and packed in a transparent bag. Important: Portable chargers (power banks) are permitted only in hand luggage. If you are carrying fish sauce (nuoc mam) as a souvenir, check the carriage rules with your airline — most often it must be checked in as luggage in special sealed packaging.

Connecting Passengers
If you have a connecting flight, ensure you have enough time between flights, especially if baggage re-check or passport control is required. Can Tho Airport is compact, which simplifies navigation, but it is always better to have a buffer of time.

Customs Control
When departing from Vietnam, be prepared for standard customs control procedures. Do not forget to declare large amounts of cash and familiarise yourself with the list of items prohibited for export from the country (for example, certain antiques or rare species of flora and fauna).

Saving Time and Money
To save money, have a snack and buy water before arriving at the airport — prices in the terminal are generally higher. Book a taxi or transfer to the city in advance to avoid inflated prices from private drivers. The main way to save time is online check-in and preparing all documents in advance.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay?
In the event of a flight delay, first contact your airline's counter for information. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with vouchers for food and drinks, and for long waits, hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses if you have travel insurance.