Cat Bi International Airport

Cat Bi International Airport is a modern and convenient gateway to Northern Vietnam. Located in the dynamic port city of Haiphong, it serves as a starting point for thousands of travellers wishing to explore the famous Halong Bay and the picturesque Cat Ba Island. Thanks to a recent large-scale modernization, the airport welcomes guests with a high level of comfort and well-thought-out infrastructure. This transport hub perfectly combines international standards with local hospitality, making the beginning and end of your Vietnamese adventure as pleasant as possible.

Airport Features and Advantages

The key advantage of Cat Bi Airport is its strategic location. The journey from here to the world-renowned Halong Bay and Cat Ba Archipelago takes significantly less time than from the capital, Hanoi, making it a preferred choice for many tourists. The new passenger terminal, opened in 2016, features a modern design, spacious and bright waiting halls, as well as intuitive navigation. Inside the terminal, travellers will find everything necessary for a comfortable wait: cafes offering Vietnamese and international cuisine, Duty-Free shops, souvenir stalls, currency exchange counters, and tourist information desks. For passengers who value enhanced comfort, a business lounge is available. The airport serves numerous domestic flights as well as international destinations, including Seoul, Bangkok, and other cities.

To contact representatives of Cat Bi International Airport (HPH), you may use the following contact details. We recommend verifying the information on the official website, as phone numbers and email addresses may change.

• Official Website: http://www.catbiairport.vn/ (site available in Vietnamese and English).
• Information Desk Phone: +84 225 3976 418. You can obtain general information about flights, airport services, and terminal operations at this number.
• Airport Address: Đường Lê Hồng Phong, quận Hải An, thành phố Hải Phòng, Việt Nam.
• Email: canghangkhongcatbi@acv.vn. Use this for official inquiries.
• Lost & Found Information: In case of lost luggage, you should first contact your airline's representative office. You can also contact the airport's baggage tracing service via the phone number listed on the official website.
• Social Media: Official airport pages, if maintained, are usually listed on the main page of the website.
• Passenger Support Service: For assistance directly at the airport, please approach the information desks located within the terminal. For remote support, use the main information desk phone number.

Cat Bi International Airport (HPH) is conveniently located just 5–8 kilometres from the Haiphong city centre, making the journey quick and simple. On average, the trip takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the chosen transport and traffic conditions.

Taxi and Transfer are the most comfortable and common options. You can use official taxi services (it is recommended to choose reputable companies such as Mai Linh or Vinasun) or book a car via the Grab app, which is popular in Asia. The cost of a trip from the city centre will be approximately 100,000–150,000 Vietnamese Dong. For solo travellers with backpacks, a motorbike taxi (xe ôm) is a great alternative and will cost significantly less.

The most budget-friendly way to get to the airport is via public transport. City buses operate along the route with minimal fares. However, this option is less convenient if you have bulky luggage and may require more time due to stops and indirect routes. We recommend checking the route number and schedule in advance.

For those who prefer maximum freedom of movement, car rental is available. You can rent a car in the city and return it at the company's airport office before departure. There is a parking lot on the airport premises where vehicles can be left for both short and long terms.

Haiphong is a key transport hub in Northern Vietnam, serving not only the city but also popular tourist destinations. If your route passes through neighbouring cities, consider other airports in the region: Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi (105 km), Van Don (about 79 km), and Tho Xuan Airport (Bai Thuong) in Thanh Hoa (166 km). Additionally, Haiphong can be reached by ground transport from the Chinese Nanning Airport.

Cat Bi International Airport (HPH) in Haiphong features a well-designed and modern structure consisting of two main passenger terminals. This separation makes navigation intuitive for both domestic and international travellers.

Terminal 1 (T1) is the older airport building, which today exclusively serves domestic flights within Vietnam. Although smaller and less equipped than the new terminal, it is fully functional and handles the flow of passengers flying to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and other cities in the country. Departure and arrival zones here are compact, allowing for quick completion of all formalities.

Terminal 2 (T2) is the new, spacious, and modern international terminal opened in 2016. It was built to serve the growing number of international flights and meets all modern standards. Here you will find international airline check-in counters, customs and passport control zones, as well as a wider selection of shops, cafes, and premium waiting lounges. This is the terminal you will use if you are arriving in Haiphong from abroad or flying to another country.

Both terminals are separate buildings but are located in close proximity to each other. Moving between them is hassle-free and takes just a few minutes on foot. The airport layout is simple, and navigation signs are in Vietnamese and English, facilitating orientation. Departure zones are traditionally located on the upper floors, while arrival zones are on the lower levels.

To complete all procedures (check-in, baggage drop, security screening, and passport control), it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance: 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight and 2.5-3 hours before an international one. Cat Bi Airport is not as busy as the country's major hubs, so queues are usually moderate, and control procedures are completed quite efficiently.

The history of Cat Bi International Airport (HPH), located in the city of Haiphong, dates back to the mid-20th century. It was originally built by the French military as a strategic airfield to support their operations in the northern region of Vietnam. From its earliest days, the facility played a crucial role as a military aviation hub.

During the Vietnam War, Cat Bi airfield was one of the key bases for the North Vietnamese Air Force. Its strategic location made it a significant target, and it was subjected to bombings multiple times. This period in the airport's history highlights its strictly military past, which preceded its peaceful transformation.

After 1975, Cat Bi began a gradual transition to civilian use. Initially, it served domestic flights, connecting Haiphong with other major cities in the country, such as Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang. This was the first step towards transforming the airport into a full-fledged passenger hub.

The most significant stage in the airport's history began in the 21st century. As part of a massive modernization completed in 2016, Cat Bi was radically rebuilt. A new runway 3,050 metres long, capable of accommodating heavy long-haul liners, was commissioned, and a modern passenger terminal was opened. It was then, in May 2016, that the airport officially received international status, which was a huge achievement and a powerful impetus for the economic development of the entire region.

Interestingly, the name "Cat Bi" comes from the historical district where the airfield was built. Today's airport is a vivid symbol of Vietnam's dynamic development: a former military facility turned into a modern gateway serving international flights and fostering the growth of tourism and trade in the northern part of the country.

Cat Bi International Airport (HPH) offers all conditions to ensure your wait for a flight is as convenient as possible. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous power outlets and USB ports allow you to easily charge your gadgets. For those who prefer privacy and enhanced comfort, there is a business lounge where you can relax, have a snack, and use work areas in a quiet atmosphere.

The airport caters to all categories of travellers. Special mother and child rooms equipped with changing tables are provided for families with small children. Passengers with reduced mobility can count on comprehensive assistance and an accessible environment, including ramps and equipped restrooms. To receive assistance, it is recommended to contact your airline in advance.

Resolving financial matters before your flight is easy: ATMs and currency exchange counters operate within the terminal. In case of unforeseen situations or feeling unwell, medical staff are always ready to provide assistance.

Of course, Cat Bi Airport also features traditional services. Cafes operate in the departure and arrival zones, offering both Vietnamese dishes and familiar snacks. You can also visit Duty-Free shops and souvenir stalls to buy gifts or items for your journey.

Although there are no hotels directly on the airport premises, many accommodation options to suit any taste and budget are located a few minutes away by taxi. Basic business services, such as workstations with internet access, are available in the VIP waiting lounge.

At Cat Bi International Airport, travellers will find several options for a snack or a full meal, located both in the public area and after passing passport control. Although the selection here is not as vast as in major metropolitan hubs, you certainly won't go hungry.

Most dining establishments are located in the public area (landside), before check-in counters and security control. Here you can find several cafes serving aromatic Vietnamese coffee, fresh pastries, and sandwiches. There is also usually a restaurant in the main hall offering local and Asian cuisine. This is an ideal place to have a leisurely lunch if you have arrived at the airport early or are seeing off friends.

After passing control, in the secure area (airside), the choice is more limited but sufficient for a snack before departure. Typically, there are small cafes and kiosks with drinks, snacks, and ready-made meals. Prices in this zone may be slightly higher than in the public area.

Once in Haiphong Airport, be sure to take the opportunity to try authentic Vietnamese dishes. Look out for classic items such as Pho (Phở) noodle soup or the hearty Vietnamese sandwich Banh Mi (Bánh mì). This is a great option for a quick and tasty introduction to the gastronomy of Vietnam. Vegetarians may find suitable options, such as vegetable soups or fresh spring rolls, but it is best to check the ingredients with the staff (please note that standard local recipes may not always be Halal certified, so discretion is advised).

Most establishments operate according to the flight schedule, opening early in the morning and closing after the departure of the last plane. Prices at the airport are expectedly higher than city establishments, but the cost remains quite reasonable. If you are short on time, a coffee point or a Banh Mi kiosk is the best choice. If time permits, you can sit comfortably in a restaurant in the main terminal.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Haiphong goes as smoothly as possible, there are several points to consider. We recommend arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight. This will give you enough time to complete all formalities without rushing, even during peak periods.

Most airlines operating at Cat Bi Airport offer an online check-in service. Use it to save time and select a convenient seat on the plane. Security checkpoints here operate according to standard international rules. Prepare liquids (in containers up to 100 ml) and electronic devices in advance to speed up the screening process.

When choosing a seat on a plane departing from Haiphong, note that scenic views of the coastal zone and the islands of Halong Bay may open up from the aircraft, especially if you sit by the window. For greater comfort and the ability to leave the cabin quickly upon arrival, choose aisle seats.

It is prohibited to carry standard items in hand luggage: sharp objects, flammable substances, and liquids in containers exceeding 100 ml. Pay attention to a specific rule in Vietnam: the famous fish sauce (Nước mắm) and other strong-smelling products are generally prohibited from being carried in the aircraft cabin. They must be checked in as luggage in sealed packaging.

If you are transiting through Haiphong, verify with your airline in advance whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. Cat Bi Airport is quite compact, so navigation between terminals will not take much time, but it is always better to have a buffer in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Upon arrival in the country, customs control usually proceeds quickly. If you do not have goods subject to declaration (large amounts of currency, expensive equipment, commercial batches of goods), feel free to follow the "Green Channel". Otherwise, you must complete a customs declaration and pass through the "Red Channel".

To save money, exchange only a small amount of cash at the airport (the rate here is often less favourable) or use an ATM. Also, bring an empty reusable water bottle with you — after passing security control, you can fill it at drinking fountains, saving on buying drinks.

In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for information. Depending on the duration of the delay, you may be provided with vouchers for food or drinks. There are cafes and free Wi-Fi in the waiting halls to pass the time. Don't forget to keep a power bank handy to keep your gadgets charged.