Pleiku Airport

Pleiku Airport is not merely a standard transport hub, but a welcoming gateway into the unique heart of Vietnam's Central Highlands. Situated amidst picturesque plateaus and coffee plantations, this small yet modern aviation hub allows travelers to immerse themselves in the unique atmosphere of Gia Lai province from the very first minute. Thanks to its compact size and recent modernization, a sense of calm prevails here—a rarity in major international airports—and the journey from the aircraft steps to the bustling city center takes just a matter of minutes.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Despite its modest size, Pleiku Airport plays a key role in the region's transport system and offers tourists surprisingly comfortable conditions.

• Exceptional proximity to the city: This is one of the most conveniently located airports in Vietnam. The distance to the center of Pleiku is only about 5 kilometers, allowing you to reach your hotel by taxi in literally 10–15 minutes without traffic jams or excessive costs.
• Speed of service: Thanks to moderate passenger traffic, all pre-flight procedures—from check-in to security screening—are completed very quickly. Long and tiring queues are rare here, allowing you to arrive at the airport a little later than usual.
• Modern infrastructure: Following a major renovation, the terminal features a stylish design and all necessary technical equipment. Waiting halls are equipped with comfortable seating, air conditioning is operational, and free Wi-Fi is available.
• A scenic start to the journey: Even during the landing approach, breathtaking views of the famous "red lands" of the basalt plateaus and green hills open up, setting the mood for adventures in the land of volcanoes and waterfalls.

Below are the contact details you may need during your visit to Pleiku Airport (PXU).

• Official Website: Basic information about the airport, flight schedules, and services is presented on the portal of the Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV). The site is available in Vietnamese and English: www.vietnamairport.vn/pleiku-airport
• Information Desk Phone: For immediate information, you can call: +84 269 3825 096
• Airport Address: 17/5 Street, Thống Nhất Ward, Pleiku City, Gia Lai Province, Vietnam.
• Email: A separate email address for general inquiries is not provided. It is recommended to use the telephone or the feedback form on the official ACV website for communication.
• Social Media: Pleiku Airport does not maintain its own pages on social networks.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you must contact your airline's Lost & Found service directly. Staff at the airport information desk can advise you on the location of the specific carrier's representative.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions related to your stay at the airport, you can contact the information desk by phone.

Pleiku Airport (PXU) is located very close to the center of the eponymous city, just 3-5 kilometers away, so getting there is effortless. The trip usually takes no more than 15 minutes, but it is wise to allow a little extra time in case of traffic. Below are the main ways to reach the airport from the city of Pleiku.

Taxis and Transfers

This is the most convenient and popular way to get to the airport. You can easily find a taxi at the hotel exit or anywhere in the city. To book a car, you can also use mobile apps popular in Vietnam, such as Grab. The trip from the city center will take about 10-15 minutes. The estimated cost will be between 70,000 and 150,000 Vietnamese dong. It is recommended to use the services of official taxi companies or trusted apps to avoid overcharging.

Public Transport

Direct bus routes from the city center to Pleiku Airport may be limited or unavailable. This option is more suitable for experienced travelers without bulky luggage who are prepared for transfers. A more exotic and cheaper method is the motorbike taxi (xe om), but it is only suitable for solo tourists with small hand luggage and does not guarantee a high level of safety.

Car Rental

If you plan to actively travel around the Central Highlands region, renting a car can be an excellent solution. Rental points are available both in the city and at the airport. Having your own transport will give you freedom of movement. It is recommended to book a vehicle in advance, especially during the tourist season.

Airport Parking

For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented car, parking is provided. Both short-term and long-term parking spaces are available. Service costs are moderate, making this a convenient option if you plan to leave the car for several days.

Alternative Airports

When planning a trip through the central part of Vietnam, it is also worth considering other air hubs in the region. Although they are located at a significant distance, sometimes their use may be justified by your itinerary. Among the nearest major airports are: Phu Cat Airport in Quy Nhon (about 110 km), Buon Ma Thuot Airport (about 147 km), and the larger Da Nang International Airport (about 228 km).

Pleiku Airport (PXU) is a modern and compact regional air hub serving Gia Lai province and its surroundings. Its structure is simple and intuitive, making the stay here as comfortable as possible for passengers.

Structure and Navigation

The airport consists of one passenger terminal, which serves both domestic departures and arrivals. Thanks to its small size and logical layout, navigating the building presents no difficulties. All main zones—check-in counters, security screening, the waiting hall, baggage claim belts, and the city exit—are within walking distance of each other. Signage is clear and understandable, so getting lost here is practically impossible.

Departure and Arrival Zones

Since there is only one terminal, the departure and arrival zones are located in the same building but are functionally separated. The departure hall includes airline check-in counters and a security checkpoint, after which passengers enter a cozy waiting hall with several boarding gates. The arrival zone consists of a hall with baggage claim belts and an exit to the general meeting area, where you can find a taxi or wait for a transfer.

Processing Time

Due to the compactness of Pleiku airport, all pre-flight formalities are completed quite quickly. Flight check-in and security screening usually take no more than 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport typically 1.5–2 hours before departure to check in luggage, pass controls, and relax before the flight without rushing.

The history of Pleiku Airport (PXU) is closely linked to the events of the 20th century and the development of the Central Highlands region of Vietnam. Initially, it was not a civilian facility but a military airfield built in the 1960s. During the Vietnam War, it was known as Holloway Air Base and played a significant strategic role as a transport and logistics hub. Its location in the very heart of the Central Highlands made it a key point for operations in this region.

After 1975, the airfield was transferred to civilian management and began serving domestic flights, connecting Gia Lai province with the country's major cities. For a long time, it remained a small regional airport with limited capabilities. However, its importance for economic development and tourism in the region was evident, leading to the need for radical modernization.

A key stage in the modern history of the airport was the massive reconstruction completed in 2015. During the works, the runway was significantly extended and reinforced, allowing for the accommodation of larger modern aircraft such as the Airbus A320 and A321. In addition, a new passenger terminal was built, increasing capacity and the level of comfort for passengers. This event was a real breakthrough, opening Pleiku to a greater number of tourists and fostering the development of business ties.

Today, Pleiku Airport is a modern air hub that serves as a shining example of transformation from a military facility into a vital element of civilian infrastructure. Its history reflects the development path of the entire region—from a conflict zone to a peaceful and promising tourist destination. The airport continues to play a key role in ensuring transport accessibility for Gia Lai province, serving as the main air gateway to the coffee heart of Vietnam.

Pleiku Airport (PXU) is a compact regional airport that, nevertheless, offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its size, the terminal is designed to ensure convenience before departure. Here you will find several cafes where you can drink famous Vietnamese coffee and have a snack, as well as shops with souvenirs and locally produced products, which will make excellent gifts from a trip through the Central Highlands.

General waiting lounges are equipped for rest before the flight. Passengers traveling in business class or who are members of certain airline loyalty programs can utilize the Business Lounge services for a more secluded and quiet atmosphere. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and charging stations for electronic devices can be found in the waiting areas to help you stay connected.

Other important amenities are provided at Pleiku Airport. For financial transactions, ATMs are installed where you can withdraw cash (Vietnamese dong). A medical station operates in the terminal building in case first aid is needed. For passengers traveling with small children, there are diaper-changing tables in the restrooms, making the stay with little ones more comfortable.

The airport is equipped for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps and specially equipped toilets. To receive assistance, such as a wheelchair, it is recommended to contact your airline in advance. Regarding accommodation, there are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, but many options can be found in the city of Pleiku itself, which is located just a few kilometers from the terminal.

Pleiku Airport (PXU), being a small regional airport, offers passengers basic but authentic dining options. You will not find global fast-food chains or fine dining restaurants here, but you can enjoy genuine Vietnamese flair before departure.

The main part of the catering establishments is located in the public area of the terminal, accessible to all visitors (before passing security control). Several small cafes operate here, where you can order a full meal or a light snack. The main focus is on local cuisine. We recommend trying the traditional pho soup with beef or chicken, a nutritious Vietnamese banh mi sandwich, or rice dishes with various toppings. Prices here are moderate, though slightly higher than in the city itself.

The pride of the region is coffee. Be sure to set aside time to enjoy a cup of strong and aromatic Vietnamese coffee, brewed using a traditional filter press (phin). This is a great way to experience the local culture. Cafes usually open according to the flight schedule—from early morning until the departure of the last aircraft.

After passing security control, in the departure zone, the choice of establishments is more limited. Typically, there is a small kiosk or cafe where you can buy drinks, snacks, sandwiches, and sweets. This is a convenient option if you want to have a bite directly before boarding the flight.

Passengers with special dietary requirements (vegans, vegetarians) should take care of their meals in advance, as specialized offers may not be available at the airport. However, in many cafes, you can ask for a simple vegetarian dish to be prepared, for example, rice with stewed vegetables (cơm chay) or vegetable soup.

Travel through Pleiku Airport (PXU) usually proceeds smoothly, as it is a small regional airport. Here are a few tips to make your trip even more comfortable.

Arrival Time and Check-in: For domestic flights within Vietnam, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time is more than sufficient for check-in, baggage drop, and passing security control without rushing. To save time, check in for your flight online on your airline's website if possible.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage: Pleiku is located in the picturesque Central Highlands, so a window seat will grant you beautiful views of coffee plantations and mountains during takeoff or landing. Regarding hand luggage, standard rules apply: liquids in containers no larger than 100 ml, no sharp objects, and no flammable substances. Always check your airline's baggage allowance.

Connecting Passengers and Customs: Pleiku Airport primarily serves domestic flights, so complex transfers are rare here. If you have a connection, clarify with the carrier whether you need to collect your luggage. Customs control is only undergone by passengers of very rare international charter flights; it is not required for domestic flights.

Saving Time and Money: To avoid inflated prices, book a transfer to the airport in advance. The choice of cafes in the airport itself is limited, so you can bring a light snack and an empty water bottle, which can be filled after passing screening.

In Case of Flight Delay: If your flight is delayed, immediately contact your airline representative for information. Keep receipts for food and drinks—in the event of a long delay, the airline may be obliged to provide meals or compensation. The waiting hall has basic amenities to help pass the time.