Da Nang International Airport

Da Nang International Airport (DAD) is not merely a transport hub, but a modern and welcoming gateway to the very heart of Vietnam. Located just a few kilometres from the centre of one of the country's most dynamic cities, it greets travellers with well-planned infrastructure. It is from here that routes to ancient temples, famous beaches, and the breathtaking landscapes of the central region begin. This makes Da Nang Airport the ideal starting point for your Vietnamese adventure.

Features and Highlights

Da Nang International Airport regularly receives high praise for its service quality and infrastructure. In early 2024, its international terminal became the first in Vietnam to be awarded the prestigious 5-star rating by Skytrax. A year earlier, in 2023, the airport was also recognised in the categories of "Best Regional Airport in Asia" and "World’s Most Improved Airport". For passenger convenience, there are two separate terminals — for domestic and international flights — allowing for swift completion of all pre-flight and post-flight formalities.

The airport offers all necessary services for a comfortable journey: cafes serving local and European cuisine, duty-free shops, currency exchange counters, ATMs, and luggage storage. The Fast Track service is also available, allowing for expedited clearance of airport procedures. Thanks to its convenient location practically within the city limits, you can reach your hotel or the beach in just 10-15 minutes by taxi.

Below you will find useful contact details for planning your arrival or departure from Da Nang International Airport (DAD).

• Official Website: danangairport.vn. Here you will find the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport regulations.
• Information Service Phone: +84 1900 636 535. For immediate information via telephone.
• Address: Duy Tan, Hoa Thuan Tay, Hai Chau, Da Nang, Vietnam.
• Email: info@danangairport.vn. For written enquiries and feedback.
• Lost and Found Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you should first contact your airline's baggage tracing service. Contact details for the airport's own Lost and Found service can be obtained via the information desk phone or on the official website.
• Social Media: For the latest news and updates, look for the airport's official pages on popular social networks. Links are usually available on the main page of the official website.

Getting to Da Nang International Airport (DAD) from the city centre is quite simple, as it is located just 3-5 kilometres from the heart of Da Nang. This makes the trip quick and affordable. Depending on your budget, amount of luggage, and personal preferences, you can choose from several convenient methods.

Taxi or Ride-Hailing Services — the most popular and convenient way to reach the airport. The journey from the city centre takes just 10–15 minutes. The cost of a metered taxi ride (e.g., Mai Linh or Vinasun companies) or via the Grab app will be approximately 100,000 – 150,000 VND. This is a reliable option, especially if you are travelling with luggage or in a group.

City Buses — the most budget-friendly option. There are several routes passing near the terminals. The fare is minimal, but this method may not be the most convenient if you have a lot of belongings. We recommend checking current route numbers and schedules in advance, as they may change. For those travelling light and wishing to save money, this is an excellent choice.

Many hotels in Da Nang offer a private transfer service to the airport. This is a comfortable, albeit more expensive option, which is worth booking in advance. If you are travelling around Vietnam in a rented car, you can easily drive to the airport yourself. For the convenience of drivers, the airport complex features parking facilities where you can leave your car for both short and long periods.

For solo travellers with a small backpack, a motorbike taxi (Xe Ôm) can be a great solution. It is easy to order via the Grab app (GrabBike). This is the fastest and cheapest way to move around the city, allowing you to experience the local atmosphere, although it is not suitable for transporting large luggage.

The structure of Da Nang International Airport (DAD) is well-planned and intuitive for travellers. The airport consists of two main passenger terminals, each with its clear specialisation, which simplifies navigation and reduces transit time.

Terminal 1 (T1) is designed for servicing domestic flights. If you are travelling within Vietnam, for example to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, your departure and arrival will take place here. It is an older building, yet it is compact and functional. The arrival zone is located on the ground floor, while the departure zone with check-in counters and gates is on the first floor.

Terminal 2 (T2) is a modern and spacious building servicing all international flights. Opened in 2017, it offers passengers a wider range of services, including duty-free shops, cafes, and restaurants. The terminal layout is also standard: ground floor — arrivals and passport control, first floor — check-in counters, and second floor — departure zone with passport control and boarding gates.

Both terminals are in separate buildings but are located in close proximity to each other. A convenient covered walkway connects them, and walking from one terminal to the other takes no more than 5-10 minutes. This is particularly convenient for passengers transferring from an international flight to a domestic one and vice versa. Navigation inside the buildings is straightforward thanks to clear signage in Vietnamese and English.

Passing through check-in and security usually does not take much time. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance: 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. During national holidays, such as Tet, passenger traffic increases significantly, so it is worth allowing extra time.

To avoid confusion, always check the information on your flight ticket — it will indicate the number of the required terminal (T1 or T2). If you arrive by taxi, simply tell the driver whether your flight is domestic or international, and they will drop you off at the correct entrance.

The history of Da Nang International Airport (DAD) dates back to the 1930s, when the French colonial administration established a small airfield here. Initially, it was known as Tourane Airfield and served both civil and military purposes, laying the foundation for a future major transport hub.

A key period in the airport's development was the Vietnam War. During this time, it was significantly expanded and modernised, becoming one of the busiest airbases in Southeast Asia. The intensity of flights in those years demonstrated its immense operational potential, which was later directed towards peaceful purposes.

After 1975, a new era began for the airport — it was fully reoriented towards civil aviation. Becoming the main transport hub for the central part of Vietnam, it began actively developing domestic and international routes, contributing to the growth of tourism and economic integration of the region.

In the 21st century, the airport underwent massive changes. In 2011, a new spacious terminal was opened to increase capacity. Later, following further expansion, it was repurposed as the terminal for domestic flights (T1). A true breakthrough was the construction of the new international terminal (T2), opened specifically for the APEC Summit in 2017. This modernisation definitively secured Da Nang Airport's status as one of the most modern in the country.

Perhaps the most remarkable fact in the airport's history is its radical transformation. A former military base that witnessed the turbulent events of the past is today one of the fastest-growing airports in Vietnam in terms of passenger traffic. This is a shining example of how infrastructure can completely change its purpose, becoming a point of attraction for millions of travellers discovering the beauty of central Vietnam.

Da Nang International Airport (DAD) offers passengers all necessary amenities to ensure waiting for a flight is comfortable and carefree. Whether you are arriving, departing, or transferring, you will find everything needed for a pleasant experience.

For those feeling hungry, the terminals feature numerous cafes and restaurants offering both Vietnamese dishes and familiar international fast-food chains. This is a great opportunity to enjoy one last bowl of Pho or have a cup of local coffee. In the departure zone, there are Duty Free shops with a wide assortment of perfumes, beverages, and confectionery, as well as souvenir shops where you can buy gifts for loved ones.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and waiting halls are equipped with charging stations for electronic devices. For passengers who value enhanced comfort, business lounges and VIP lounges are available. Here you can relax in a quiet atmosphere, enjoy snacks and drinks, read the latest press, or take a shower.

To handle financial matters, the airport has bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange counters where you can exchange money upon arrival or before departure. In case of unforeseen health issues, a medical centre is available to provide first aid.

Travellers with children will appreciate the play areas and mother-and-child rooms, where you can feed and change your baby in a quiet environment. For passengers with reduced mobility, a barrier-free environment has been created: ramps, lifts, specially equipped toilets, and assistance services are provided.

If you have a long layover or an early flight, there are several hotels located in the immediate vicinity of the airport offering comfortable accommodation. Basic business services may also be available for business travellers.

At Da Nang International Airport (DAD), passengers will find a decent selection of establishments for a snack or a full meal while waiting for their flight. Dining outlets are located in both terminals — International (T2) and Domestic (T1) — and offer dishes of both local and world cuisine for various preferences and budgets.

The majority of cafes and restaurants are located in the "airside" departure zone, after passing through all formalities. In the International Terminal T2, there is a food court featuring fast-food outlets like Burger King, restaurants serving authentic Vietnamese food, and popular coffee shops, including Starbucks and the local chain Highlands Coffee. In the public "landside" zone before security, the choice is more limited, but typically at least one cafe is open for those seeing off or meeting passengers.

To enjoy the flavour of local cuisine one last time, do not miss the chance to try the national hits of Vietnam. Look for establishments offering:

• Phở — the legendary noodle soup with beef or chicken. An excellent choice for a hearty meal.
• Bánh mì — a crispy Vietnamese baguette sandwich with various fillings, from pâté and meats to fresh vegetables. Ideal for a quick and tasty snack.
• Vietnamese Coffee (Cà phê) — strong, aromatic coffee served hot or with ice and condensed milk.

Travellers with specific dietary requirements should note that the selection may be limited. It is easiest to find dishes for vegetarians: menus often feature fried rice with vegetables, spring rolls, and you can also ask for Pho or Bánh mì to be prepared without meat ingredients. Finding certified Halal or strict vegan options may prove more challenging. For those adhering to a gluten-free diet, Pho soup can be a good solution (the noodles are made from rice), however, it is recommended to check the sauce ingredients with the staff.

As in most airports around the world, prices for food and drinks here are noticeably higher than in the city. The opening hours of establishments in the "airside" zone are usually synchronised with the flight schedule, and some cafes in the international terminal operate around the clock or until the last departure. For a quick bite, coffee shops or Bánh mì stalls are perfect, and if time permits, you can have a full lunch at one of the restaurants in the food court.

To ensure your journey through Da Nang International Airport goes as smoothly as possible, take note of these tips. The airport consists of two terminals: T1 for domestic flights and T2 for international ones. They are located next to each other, but planning will help avoid unnecessary rush.

Arrival Time: For international flights, it is recommended to arrive 2.5–3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights within Vietnam — 1.5–2 hours. During peak tourist seasons or national holidays, it is better to allow extra time due to potential queues at check-in and security.

Check-in and Security: Most airlines offer online check-in, which saves time. Keep your passport and ticket ready at the check-in counters. When passing through security, be prepared to remove laptops, tablets, and liquids from your hand luggage. The procedures are standard, but staff can be very strict regarding regulations.

Hand Luggage Regulations: Liquids in containers up to 100 ml packed in a transparent bag are allowed in hand luggage. Power banks must be carried only in hand luggage. Pay attention to local restrictions: some airlines may prohibit carrying durian in the cabin due to its strong odour or limit the quantity of fish sauce (Nuoc Mam).

Customs Control: When entering or leaving, declare large amounts of cash (usually over 5,000 USD) and expensive personal items. The import and export of narcotics, weapons, and anti-government materials is strictly prohibited. If you are exporting antiques or art objects, ensure you have an export permit.

Transfer Passengers: If you have a transfer from an international flight to a domestic one (or vice versa), you will need to move between terminals T2 and T1. This takes about 10-15 minutes on foot. Note that upon international arrival, you will need to pass passport control, collect your luggage, and clear customs before checking in for your next flight.

Saving Time and Money:

• Book a transfer from the airport in advance online or use taxi apps (such as Grab), selecting the official pick-up point.
• The currency exchange rate at the airport may be less favourable than in the city. Exchange only a small amount for initial expenses.
• Prices for food and drinks in the departure zone are higher than in the city. If you have time, have a snack before arriving at the airport.

In Case of Flight Delay: First of all, contact your airline representative for information on the new departure time and possible compensation (food or hotel vouchers). The airport has free Wi-Fi, cafes, and shops to help pass the time. Check the terms of your travel insurance — it may cover expenses related to long delays.