Chu Lai International Airport

Chu Lai International Airport is not just a transport hub, but a strategically important aerial gateway to the central part of Vietnam, located within a free economic zone. Built on the site of a former major military base, today this airport attracts travelers with its peaceful atmosphere and convenient access to two provinces: Quang Nam and Quang Ngai. For tourists, it serves as an excellent alternative to the busier Da Nang Airport, allowing for comfortable travel to the region's pristine beaches and historical landmarks.

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

One of the main highlights of the airport is its location: it sits practically on the coast, surrounded by sand dunes, creating a unique atmosphere during takeoff and landing. Chu Lai boasts the longest runway in the country, inherited from its military history, which allows it to accommodate aircraft of all types.

Travelers appreciate this aviation hub for the lack of hustle and long queues typical of major metropolises. From here, it is convenient to reach not only the city of Tam Ky but also the popular tourist destination of Hoi An (about 70-80 km away) or the industrial centre of Quang Ngai. Convenient transfers and bus services connecting the terminal to the centres of neighboring cities are available for passengers.

For your convenience, we have compiled the essential contact information for Chu Lai International Airport (VCL). We recommend checking the official resources for the most up-to-date data before your trip.

• Official Website: chulai-airport.vn. Here you will find flight schedules, terminal maps, and the latest news.
• Information Hotline: (84-235) 3550 550. You can call this number to clarify information regarding flights and airport services.
• Airport Address: Tam Nghia Commune, Nui Thanh District, Quang Nam Province, Vietnam.
• Email: vanthu.vcl@acv.vn. Suitable for official inquiries.
• Social Media: Currently, the airport does not maintain active official pages on popular social networks. All primary information is published on the website.
• Lost & Found Information: regarding lost luggage, you should first contact your airline's representative office at the airport.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions and support, you can use the main information hotline or the airport's email address.

There are several ways to get to Chu Lai International Airport (VCL), which serves the city of Tam Ky and the entire Quang Nam province. The best option depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and personal preferences. The airport is located approximately 35 km south of Tam Ky, and the journey does not take much time.

Public Transport. One of the most popular and budget-friendly ways to reach the airport is the free shuttle bus. Routes connect the airport with the city centres of Tam Ky and Quang Ngai. The shuttle schedule is usually coordinated with flight arrival and departure times, making them very convenient for passengers. This is an ideal choice for economical travelers.

Taxi and Transfers. For those who value comfort and time, the best solution is a taxi or a car booked via a mobile app (such as Grab). Cars can be found both in the city and directly outside the terminal exit. The trip from the centre of Tam Ky to the airport will take approximately 45-60 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The cost will be higher than the bus, but this option ensures maximum convenience and "door-to-door" service.

Car Rental and Parking. If you plan to explore not only Tam Ky but other corners of central Vietnam, consider renting a car. Rental points are available both in the city and at the airport itself. This option provides complete freedom of movement. For those arriving at the airport in a personal or rented vehicle, paid parking is available on the premises where you can leave the car for any required duration.

It is worth noting that Chu Lai Airport is an important transport hub in the region. However, for certain routes, other airports might be more convenient, such as the larger Da Nang International Airport, located about 90 km to the north, or Phu Cat Airport in the city of Quy Nhon.

Chu Lai International Airport (VCL) is a compact and modern air terminal that is easy to navigate even for inexperienced travelers. Its structure is simple and intuitive, making your stay here comfortable.

The airport consists of a single passenger terminal that handles both domestic and international flights. Thanks to this, you do not have to worry about transferring between different buildings — all procedures from check-in to boarding take place under one roof. Departure and arrival zones are located in the same building, significantly simplifying navigation.

The terminal layout is logical. The departure hall houses airline check-in counters, after which passengers proceed to the security screening area. This is followed by the general waiting area with boarding gates. The arrival hall is equipped with baggage claim belts and an exit to the city, where you can find taxis or arrange a transfer. Signs in Vietnamese and English will help you find your way.

Completing all formalities at Chu Lai Airport usually takes little time. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive 1.5–2 hours before departure. Check-in and security screening generally proceed quickly, though small queues are possible during peak hours or the tourist season. The terminal offers basic amenities: several cafes for a quick bite, small shops with souvenirs and travel essentials, as well as comfortable waiting areas.

The history of Chu Lai International Airport (VCL) is unique and closely tied to the events of the 20th century. Unlike many civilian airports, it was not founded for commercial transport but as a military facility. Its construction began in 1965 by the U.S. Navy Seabees during the height of the Vietnam War. Located near the city of Tam Ky, it became one of the largest and most strategically important airbases in the region, capable of accommodating heavy transport aircraft and fighter jets.

One of the most interesting facts in the airport's history is related to its name. "Chu Lai" is not a Vietnamese word, but a phonetic adaptation of the Chinese name of the American Marine Corps General Victor Krulak (Chu-Lai), who selected this site for the base's construction. Initially, a runway with aluminum matting (SATS) was built here, which was a true engineering achievement at the time, allowing the airfield to launch in record time.

After the war ended in 1975, the massive airfield remained practically dormant for many years, losing its military significance. A new chapter in its history opened in the early 2000s when the government of Vietnam decided to establish the Chu Lai Open Economic Zone in the surrounding area. Its development required a modern air harbor. The airport underwent extensive reconstruction and welcomed its first commercial flight on March 22, 2005, officially beginning its civilian life.

Today, Chu Lai Airport is a dynamically developing transport hub. It not only serves passengers heading to Quang Nam and Quang Ngai provinces but also holds immense potential for growth as a cargo hub. Thanks to its military past, the airport possesses vast territory and one of the longest runways in Vietnam, creating ideal conditions for further expansion and modernization, transforming it into a vital aerial gateway for the central part of the country.

Chu Lai International Airport (VCL), despite its relatively small size, offers passengers a set of essential services for a comfortable wait. Inside the terminal, you will find several cafes and snack bars where you can have a meal, enjoying Vietnamese cuisine, or have a coffee. There are also souvenir shops offering gifts and locally produced goods. For passengers who value privacy and enhanced comfort, a business lounge with a quiet atmosphere, beverages, and snacks is available.

To stay connected, travelers can utilize the free Wi-Fi available throughout the terminal. Charging stations for electronic devices are provided in the waiting areas. For financial matters, ATMs are installed at the airport, and currency exchange points are available, though it is worth noting that better exchange rates can usually be found at banks in major cities.

The airport cares about the well-being of all passengers. A medical centre operates on the premises where first aid can be obtained. A mother and child room is equipped for travelers with young children. The terminal is also adapted for the needs of passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps and accessible restrooms, and airport staff are ready to provide necessary assistance during boarding and disembarking.

There are no hotels or specialized conference halls within the airport building itself. If you require accommodation or a venue for business meetings, the nearest hotels and business centres are located in neighboring cities such as Tam Ky and Quang Ngai, which can be easily reached by taxi or bus.

Chu Lai International Airport (VCL), being a regional transport hub, offers passengers a basic but sufficient selection of dining spots for a comfortable wait. Options are mainly concentrated in the main terminal and focus on local cuisine and quick bites.

Most cafes and small snack bars are located in the public area (landside), before passport control and security screening. Here you will find a small food court where you can have a full lunch. After passing through security, in the sterile departure zone (airside), the selection is more modest and usually limited to kiosks offering beverages, coffee, and packaged snacks.

This is a great opportunity to try authentic Vietnamese dishes. We highly recommend ordering a bowl of aromatic Phở soup or the famous Vietnamese sandwich Bánh mì. For those preferring a heartier meal, rice dishes (Cơm) with chicken or meat options are suitable. For a quick snack, a cup of strong Vietnamese iced coffee and fresh pastries is ideal.

Specialized vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free menus are difficult to find at Chu Lai Airport. However, you can ask for a dish to be prepared without meat—for example, a vegetable Bánh mì. The price range is moderate for an airport, though slightly higher than in city establishments. The operating hours of cafes and restaurants are generally tied to the flight schedule, serving passengers from the first to the last flight.

So, if you wish to have a full meal, it is better to do so in the general hall before passing through control. If time is limited, you can grab a quick sandwich and coffee in the departure zone. Travelers with specific dietary requirements are advised to eat beforehand in the city.

To ensure your journey through Chu Lai International Airport goes smoothly, follow these tips. We recommend arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international ones. Although the airport in Tam Ky is not overcrowded, extra time will help avoid rushing. Save time by checking in online if your airline offers this service. This will allow you to proceed immediately to the baggage drop counter or, if you are traveling with hand luggage only, directly to the security checkpoint.

The security screening procedure is standard, but preparation will help you pass through faster. Ensure that all liquids in your carry-on are in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag. Laptops, tablets, and other large gadgets will need to be removed from your bag and placed in a separate tray. Be sure to familiarize yourself with your airline's rules regarding prohibited items to avoid unpleasant surprises at security control.

Choosing the right seat on the plane will make your flight more comfortable. Prefer admiring the views? Choose a window seat to enjoy the panorama of the Vietnam coastline during takeoff and landing. Need more legroom or the ability to stand up freely? Then an aisle seat is your choice. If you have a transfer planned at Chu Lai Airport, verify in advance whether your luggage will be automatically forwarded to the next flight or if you will need to collect and re-check it.

When passing through customs control, have your passport, visa (if required), and boarding pass ready. If you are carrying items subject to declaration, do not forget to fill out the appropriate form. To save a little money, bring an empty water bottle with you — after security, it can be filled at drinking fountains. Prices for food and drinks in the departure zone can be high, so a light snack brought from home will also be handy.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline's representative counter. Remain calm and find out what support you are entitled to: depending on the wait time, you may be offered vouchers for food and drinks, and for long delays, hotel accommodation. Be sure to keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses — they will be useful for claiming compensation from the air carrier or insurance company.