Bai Thuong Airport

Tho Xuan Airport, formerly known as Bai Thuong, is the aerial gateway to Thanh Hoa province, one of the dynamically developing regions of Vietnam. Combining civil and military purposes, this airport has evolved from a military airbase into a vital transport hub serving a growing flow of tourists and business travellers. Its history began in 1968, while civil flight services commenced in 2013, marking the starting point for a rapid increase in passenger traffic. Today, Tho Xuan plays a key role in the transport infrastructure of the North Central Coast region of Vietnam.

Despite its compact size, Tho Xuan Airport offers passengers the necessary comfort. The modern two-storey terminal is capable of handling over a million passengers per year, offering convenient waiting lounges, several check-in counters, cafes, and shops. A business lounge is located on the second floor for a more comfortable wait before your flight. Currently, the airport primarily serves domestic flights, connecting Thanh Hoa with major cities such as Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Nha Trang. There are ambitious plans for modernisation and expansion, which will allow the airport to achieve international status and accept flights from abroad in the future.

• Official Website: Like other regional airports in Vietnam, Tho Xuan Airport (Bai Thuong) is managed by the Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV). Official information is available on their portal: vietnamairport.vn/thoxuanairport.
• Information Desk Phone: +84 237 3 830 555. Please note the international code for Vietnam (+84) when calling from abroad.
• Airport Address: Sao Vang Town, Tho Xuan District, Thanh Hoa Province, Vietnam (Thị trấn Sao Vàng, huyện Thọ Xuân, tỉnh Thanh Hóa, Việt Nam).
• Email: A dedicated email address for general passenger inquiries is not published. For communication, it is recommended to use the telephone or contact forms on your airline's website.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain separate official pages on popular social networks. Up-to-date news can be tracked on the general ACV resources.
• Lost & Found Information: If your luggage has been lost during the flight, you must immediately contact the Lost & Found service of your airline at the arrival airport. For items left within the terminal, please contact the information desk or airport security.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For consultations and assistance regarding your stay at the airport, you can approach the information desk in the terminal or call the general enquiry number.

Bai Thuong Airport (THD) is located approximately 45 kilometres west of the city centre of Thanh Hoa, making the journey there reasonably quick. Travellers can choose from several convenient methods to reach the terminal, depending on their budget and preferences. On average, the journey from the city centre takes between 45 to 60 minutes.

Taxis and ride-hailing services, such as Grab, are the most popular and convenient option. This is an ideal choice for those travelling with luggage or who simply value comfort. A car can be easily found in any part of the city or booked via an app. The cost of the trip is usually between 400,000 to 500,000 Vietnamese Dong (VND), though this may vary depending on demand and traffic conditions.

Public transport is the most economical method. Bus No. 19 runs to the airport from central Thanh Hoa. This is an excellent option for budget travellers without a large amount of luggage. The bus journey will take slightly longer, approximately 70–90 minutes, but the fare is minimal. Check the schedule in advance, as intervals between buses can be long.

If you plan to explore not only the city but also the surrounding areas of Vietnam, you might consider car rental. There are several rental agencies in Thanh Hoa. For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, parking is available with options for both short-term and long-term stays.

For maximum convenience, especially for families or large groups, you can book a private transfer in advance. This service is often provided by hotels or specialised transport companies. This guarantees a fixed price and a meet-and-greet service at the appointed time without any hassle.

Bai Thuong Airport (THD), also known as Tho Xuan Airport, is a modern and compact transport hub. It serves the province of Thanh Hoa and the surrounding regions of northern Vietnam. The airport's structure is simple and intuitive, making it convenient even for first-time travellers.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, which handles all domestic flights. The terminal building is designed to separate the flows of arriving and departing passengers for maximum convenience. Since there is only one terminal, there is no need for transfers between buildings. All infrastructure is located under one roof.

The airport layout is logical. The departure area is generally located on the second floor, while the arrival area is on the first floor. Navigation is straightforward thanks to clear signage in Vietnamese and English. In the Departure Zone, you will find airline check-in counters, security checkpoints, and the waiting lounge with boarding gates. The Arrival Zone includes baggage reclaim belts and an exit to the public area, where passengers are met and where taxis can be ordered.

Check-in and security procedures at Bai Thuong Airport usually proceed quite quickly due to its small size. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5–2 hours before departure to complete all formalities without rushing. For navigation, simply follow the signs for "Departures" or "Arrivals" — it is virtually impossible to get lost here.

The history of Bai Thuong Airport (THD), also known as Tho Xuan Airport, is a vivid example of the transformation of a vital military facility into a modern civil aviation hub, playing a key role in the development of Thanh Hoa province and the entire North Central region of Vietnam.

The airport was founded in 1965 during the Vietnam War as the Sao Vang military airbase. For many years, it served as a strategic point for the Vietnam Air Force, housing fighter regiments and playing a significant role in the country's defence. This military period laid the foundation for the airport's future infrastructure.

A new era for the airport began on 5 February 2013, when it was officially opened for civil transport. On this day, the first commercial flight landed here, marking the transformation of the military base into a multi-functional airport. This step was part of a government programme to stimulate economic growth, tourism, and investment in the region.

Since opening to civil aviation, Bai Thuong Airport has demonstrated one of the highest passenger growth rates in the country. To cope with the increasing demand, significant modernisation was carried out. In 2017, the airport received its first international charter flight, and in subsequent years, planning and construction began for a new, larger passenger terminal (T2) to achieve full international airport status.

Interesting fact: Bai Thuong Airport retains its dual-use status to this day. It simultaneously serves commercial flights for thousands of tourists and locals, while continuing to function as an important base for the Vietnam People's Army. This unique feature underscores its enduring strategic importance to the country.

Bai Thuong Airport (THD), serving Thanh Hoa province and surrounding regions of Vietnam, is a modern domestic terminal offering passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait before their flight. Despite its relatively small size, the airport is well-organised and capable of meeting the basic needs of travellers.

Within the terminal building, you will find several cafes and eateries where you can have a snack before departure, drink Vietnamese coffee, or enjoy soft drinks. There are also small shops selling souvenirs, travel essentials, and local delicacies. The selection is not as extensive as in international hubs, but it is quite sufficient for a short wait.

Comfortable waiting lounges are equipped for passengers. Free Wi-Fi is generally available throughout the terminal. Charging stations for electronic devices can be found in the waiting halls; however, their number may be limited, so carrying a portable power bank is recommended. For business class passengers or for an additional fee, a VIP lounge with more comfortable conditions may be available.

The airport is equipped with ATMs where cash can be withdrawn. Currency exchange counters may be absent or offer less favourable rates, so it is recommended to exchange money in advance in the city of Thanh Hoa. For emergencies, a medical post is available in the terminal, ready to provide first aid.

The airport is equipped to serve passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps and specially equipped restrooms. For additional assistance, such as a wheelchair, you should contact your airline representative in advance. Services for passengers with small children are standard but may be limited. There are no specialised business centres or conference rooms at the airport. Hotels are also not available on the airport premises; however, a wide selection of accommodation options can be found in the nearest city, Thanh Hoa, which is about 45 km away.

Bai Thuong Airport (THD), serving Thanh Hoa province, is a small regional airport, so the choice of dining establishments here is quite limited. Nevertheless, passengers can find a few options for snacks and beverages before their flight.

Most establishments are concentrated in the general hall of the terminal, accessible before security control (landside). Here, several small cafes typically operate, where you can order Vietnamese coffee (cà phê), tea, soft drinks, and bottled water. Regarding food, packaged snacks, Banh Mi sandwiches, pastries, and instant noodles are generally offered.

After passing through security, in the departure area (airside), the selection becomes even more modest. Most often, you can find a small kiosk or vending machine with drinks and light snacks, such as crisps or biscuits. There are no full-service restaurants with hot meals at the airport, so if you are counting on a substantial lunch or dinner, it is better to do so in advance in the city of Thanh Hoa.

Specialised options, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes, are absent at Bai Thuong Airport. Travellers with strict dietary requirements are strongly advised to bring food with them. Prices in local cafes are slightly higher than in the city but remain quite affordable. Establishments usually operate in accordance with the flight schedule, opening a few hours before the first departure and closing after the last one.

To ensure your journey through the aerial gateway of Thanh Hoa goes as smoothly as possible, make use of these helpful tips. Bai Thuong Airport (Tho Xuan Airport, THD) is small and modern, but preparation is never wasted.

Arrival Time. For domestic flights within Vietnam, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5-2 hours before departure. This is enough time to check in, drop off luggage, and pass through security screening without rushing.

Check-in and Screening. Procedures at Bai Thuong Airport usually move faster than at the country's major hubs. However, to avoid delays, have your passport and boarding pass ready (in printed or electronic format). During screening, be prepared to remove laptops and other large gadgets from your hand luggage.

Seat Selection. The standard advice applies here too: a window seat (A or F) will offer you picturesque views of the coast or mountain landscapes during takeoff and landing. An aisle seat (C or D) is more convenient if you wish to be able to stand up freely during the flight.

Hand Luggage. Pay close attention to baggage rules. Liquids in containers larger than 100 ml, sharp objects, and flammable substances are prohibited in the cabin. Important: Power banks and electronic cigarettes are permitted only in hand luggage.

Connecting Passengers. Bai Thuong is not a major transit hub, so most flights are direct. If you have a self-planned transfer, allow sufficient time, as you will likely need to collect your luggage and check in again for the next flight.

Customs Control. Since the airport primarily serves domestic airlines, customs control is absent for passengers travelling within Vietnam. The procedure is relevant only for rare international charter flights.

Saving Time and Money. The best way to save time is to complete online check-in on the airline's website. To save money, book your transfer to the city in advance rather than using private drivers at the exit. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are higher than in the city, so it is better to have a snack before the trip.

Flight Delays. In the event of a delay or cancellation, immediately contact your airline's representative counter. They will provide up-to-date information and, depending on the length of the wait, may offer vouchers for food or drinks. Given the small size of the terminal, download films or bring a book with you in advance to pass the time.