Phu Bai International Airport

Phu Bai International Airport (HUI) is the aerial gateway to the ancient imperial capital of Vietnam, the city of Hue. Located in the picturesque Thua Thien Hue province, it serves as the starting point for travelers seeking to explore the rich cultural and historical heritage of central Vietnam. Built back in the 1940s, the airport has undergone significant modernization and today welcomes guests with a modern terminal, the architecture of which is inspired by the outlines of traditional royal palaces. Phu Bai combines historical significance with modern amenities, making the start of your journey to Hue comfortable and memorable.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

The main pride of the airport is the new passenger Terminal T2, which began operations in 2023. Its design reflects the cultural heritage of Hue, creating a sense of arrival in a special place for passengers. Inside the terminal, there are spacious and bright halls, duty-free shops, cafes, and restaurants offering both local delicacies and international cuisine. Thanks to well-thought-out infrastructure, the airport is capable of serving up to 5 million passengers per year.

Despite its international status, the airport currently mainly serves domestic flights, connecting Hue with major cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. However, it plays a key role in the development of tourism in the region. The journey to the center of Hue takes only 20–30 minutes by taxi or bus, making it very convenient for tourists. For travelers, Phu Bai becomes not just a transit point, but a comfortable beginning to an exciting acquaintance with the history and beauty of central Vietnam.

For your convenience, we have collected the main contact information for Phu Bai International Airport (HUI), which serves the city of Hue and its surroundings.

• Official Website: The most up-to-date information on flight schedules, services, and airport regulations is available on the official website: phubai.vietnamairport.vn.
• Inquiry Service Phone: For immediate communication and consultations, you can call the number: +84 234 3861 131.
• Airport Address: National Route 1A, Phu Bai, Huong Thuy, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam.
• Email: The airport does not publish a direct email address for general inquiries. It is recommended to use the contact form on the official website for communication.
• Social Media: At the moment, Phu Bai Airport does not maintain active official pages on social networks. It is best to track all news and updates on the official website.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, first of all contact the representative office of your airline. For items forgotten in the terminal, you should contact the airport's Lost and Found service.
• Passenger Support Service: For most questions related to your stay at the airport, you can receive a consultation via the main inquiry service phone number.

Phu Bai International Airport (HUI) is located approximately 15 kilometers from the city center of Hue, and it can be reached by several convenient methods. The choice of transport depends on your budget, time, and amount of luggage. Planning a trip to this corner of Vietnam, you will easily find the optimal option for yourself.

Public Transport: Bus

The most budget-friendly way to get to the airport is a special shuttle bus. Usually, these are yellow buses that run between the city center (often with a stop near major hotels or tourist offices) and the airport. The bus ride takes about 40–60 minutes depending on traffic and the number of stops. The ticket price is quite affordable and is approximately 50,000 VND. This is an excellent choice for solo travelers and those wishing to save money.

Taxi and Transfer

Taxi is the most popular and fastest way to get to the airport. The trip from the center of Hue will take just 20–30 minutes. It is recommended to use the services of trusted companies, such as Mai Linh (green cars) or Thanh Cong. The cost of the trip by meter will be around 250,000 – 300,000 VND. A more convenient alternative may be ordering a car through the Grab app, where the price will be fixed in advance. For families and large groups with bulky luggage, a pre-booked private transfer is ideal, ensuring maximum comfort.

Car Rental and Parking

If you prefer complete freedom of movement, you can rent a car. This option is more suitable for those planning to actively travel around the surroundings of Hue, rather than just for a trip to the airport. Ensure that you have an international driving license. Phu Bai Airport provides parking for both short-term and long-term stays, which is convenient if you arrive in your own or rented transport.

Our Recommendations

To ensure your trip goes smoothly, we advise considering a few points. If you have an early morning or late night flight, it is better to book a taxi or transfer in advance, as buses may not run at this time. When traveling by taxi, always ask to turn on the meter or agree on the price before the journey begins. And, of course, allow extra time for the road to avoid rushing due to possible traffic jams.

Phu Bai International Airport (HUI), serving the ancient capital of Hue, opened a new passenger Terminal 2 (T2) in 2023. It is this terminal that now handles all domestic and international flights. This modern building, the architecture of which is inspired by the gates of the imperial city, replaced the old Terminal 1 (T1), which previously handled the entire passenger flow. For most travelers, all procedures from check-in to baggage claim take place exclusively in the new terminal.

The structure of Terminal 2 is intuitive and designed for passenger convenience. It has two main levels:

• Ground Floor — this is the arrival zone. Located here are baggage claim belts, customs control counters for international flights, as well as the exit to the city where you can find taxis, currency exchange, and tourist information desks.
• First Floor — the departure zone. Passengers arrive here for flight check-in, baggage drop-off, security control, and passport control. After all formalities, you will find yourself in a spacious waiting hall with boarding gates, Duty Free shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Since all passenger operations are concentrated in Terminal 2, travelers do not need to worry about transfers between terminals. Navigation inside the building is simple thanks to clear signs in Vietnamese and English. Departure and arrival zones are logically separated, which minimizes confusion and helps even first-time visitors orient themselves easily.

To calmly pass all pre-flight formalities, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance. For domestic flights within Vietnam, allow at least 1.5–2 hours before departure, and for international flights — about 2.5–3 hours. The new terminal is designed for efficient service, so by following these recommendations, your journey will begin without unnecessary haste and stress.

The history of Phu Bai International Airport (HUI) is closely linked to the turbulent history of the region itself. Located near the ancient imperial capital, the city of Hue, it has come a long way from a military airfield to the modern aerial gateway of central Vietnam. Initially, the airport was built by French colonial authorities as a small airfield for military needs. Its strategic location predetermined its future fate for many decades.

In the mid-20th century, the airfield was significantly expanded and used as an important transport and military hub. After 1975, a new chapter in its history began — the airfield was transferred to civil authorities and began serving commercial flights. This transition marked the transformation of Phu Bai from a military facility into a key element of transport infrastructure aimed at the recovery and development of the region, primarily to attract tourists to the rich cultural heritage of Hue.

Key stages of airport modernization took place in the 21st century. In 2013, the airport was temporarily closed for several months for a large-scale reconstruction of the runway, which allowed it to receive larger modern aircraft. However, the most significant event was the opening of the new international terminal (T2) in 2023. This modern complex, inspired by the architecture of the imperial palaces of Hue, increased the airport's capacity to 5 million passengers per year and brought it to a new level of international service.

Today, Phu Bai Airport is a symbol of the dynamic development of central Vietnam. An interesting fact: its transformation from a purely utilitarian military facility into an elegant modern airport, the design of which pays tribute to local culture, reflects the country's general path. It does not just receive and dispatch flights, but serves as a starting point for thousands of travelers seeking to get acquainted with unique monuments from the UNESCO World Heritage list located in Hue and its surroundings.

Phu Bai International Airport (HUI) in the city of Hue offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its relatively small size, the terminal is designed so that your journey through Vietnam begins or ends as pleasantly as possible.

Within the airport territory, you will find several cafes and eateries where you can try local cuisine or drink a cup of famous Vietnamese coffee. Shops offer an assortment of souvenirs, handicrafts, and essential goods. For those who value enhanced comfort, there is a business lounge where you can relax in a quiet atmosphere, enjoying snacks and beverages.

Staying connected will not be difficult: free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and charging stations for electronic devices are equipped in the waiting halls. For financial matters, ATMs and currency exchange points are at your service, where you can exchange money upon arrival or before departure.

The airport cares for all categories of passengers. There is a medical point for first aid, as well as mother and child rooms for travelers with young children. Special facilities are provided for passengers with reduced mobility; it is recommended to notify the airline in advance about the need for assistance for its timely provision.

Although there are no hotels directly in the airport building, many accommodation options can be found in the city of Hue itself, which is easily accessible by taxi or transfer. Specialized conference halls are also not provided in the airport, however, basic business services may be available in the VIP lounge.

Phu Bai International Airport (HUI), serving the city of Hue, offers passengers several options for a snack or a full meal before departure. Although the selection here is not as extensive as in giant hubs, you will easily find both local cuisine dishes and familiar snacks.

The main part of catering establishments is located in the departure zone (airside), after passing passport and customs control. Here is a small food court where you can order hot dishes. There are also several cafes in the general zone before control (landside), which are excellent for those meeting passengers or those who arrived at the airport well in advance.

This is your last chance to taste authentic Hue cuisine. Pay attention to dishes such as the famous spicy noodle soup `Bún Bò Huế` — the region's calling card. Also, other Vietnamese hits can often be found on the menu of local cafes, for example, `Pho` soup or chicken rice. Fresh spring rolls or `Banh mi` sandwiches are perfect for a quick snack.

The price range at the airport is higher than in the city but remains moderate. A cup of coffee or juice will cost a few dollars, while a full hot lunch will cost around 10-15 USD. Most cafes and restaurants operate according to the flight schedule, opening early in the morning and closing after the departure of the last aircraft.

Passengers with specific dietary requirements should be attentive. Finding certified halal or gluten-free dishes can be challenging. It is easier for vegetarians: you can order fried rice with vegetables or vegetable soup, however, it is always better to check with the staff regarding the absence of fish sauce in the dish. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is recommended to bring food with you.

To ensure your journey through the aerial gates of the ancient capital goes smoothly, use our tips. Phu Bai Airport serves both domestic and international flights, and knowing a few nuances will make your experience more comfortable.

Arrival Time and Check-in. We recommend arriving at the airport 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. Although the airport in Hue is not as busy as hubs in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, extra time will allow you to pass all formalities without rushing. To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides such an option.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage. When flying from central Vietnam in clear weather, beautiful views of the coast and mountains open up from the window — choose a window seat. Standard hand luggage rules apply here as well: liquids in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag, and no sharp objects. Be sure to check baggage allowance rules with your airline.

Transfers and Customs. If you have a connecting flight, find out in advance if you need to collect and re-check your luggage. An important advantage of the airport is that all operations, from check-in to boarding, take place in one new terminal T2. This makes navigation extremely simple and fast. Customs control for those arriving on international flights is standard — you may need to fill out a declaration.

Savings and Flight Delays. To save on transfer to the city, use taxi-hailing apps (for example, Grab) — this is often cheaper than the services of taxi drivers in the arrival zone. In case of a flight delay, first of all, contact a representative of your airline. While waiting for departure, you can relax in small cafes within the airport territory.