Noi Bai International Airport: Vietnam's Northern Gateway Guide

Nestled just 28 kilometers from Hanoi’s bustling city center, Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) is more than just a gateway to Northern Vietnam. It’s the country’s second-largest and busiest airport, connecting millions of passengers to domestic and international destinations each year. Serving as the main transit hub for travelers exploring Hanoi and the northern provinces, Noi Bai offers world-class facilities, smooth transit services, and a glimpse into Vietnam’s vibrant culture.

Whether you’re embarking on a cultural journey through Hanoi’s ancient streets or heading to breathtaking destinations like Ha Long Bay or Sapa, Noi Bai International Airport promises a seamless start to your adventure. This comprehensive guide will provide all the information you need to navigate Noi Bai with ease.

1. Noi Bai International Airport – An Overview

• Location: Phú Minh Commune, Sóc Sơn District, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Distance from City Center: Approximately 28 kilometers (17 miles)
• Airport Code: HAN

What Makes It Special?

Handling over 29 million passengers annually, Noi Bai International Airport stands as the largest airport in northern Vietnam and serves as a crucial entry point for both domestic and international travelers. Noi Bai connects Hanoi with major destinations across Asia, Europe, and beyond, ensuring seamless journeys for tourists and business travelers alike.

Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) is the largest airport in Northern Vietnam - Nguồn: Fanpage Noibai International Airport

The airport features two terminals catering to both domestic and international flights:

• Terminal 1 (T1): Dedicated to domestic flights, offering efficient check-in counters, diverse dining options, and comfortable lounges.
• Terminal 2 (T2): Designed for international flights, this modern terminal boasts duty-free shopping, immigration facilities, and premium lounges for international travelers.

2. Terminals at Noi Bai International Airport – Modern and Efficient

Terminal 1 (T1) – Domestic Flights

Built to handle the growing volume of domestic air traffic, Terminal 1 connects Hanoi to major cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Phu Quoc, and Nha Trang. The terminal features:

• Multiple Check-in Counters: Well-organized counters ensure minimal wait times for domestic travelers.
• Dining Options: From quick snacks to full meals, a variety of Vietnamese and international cuisines are available.
• Lounges: Business and VIP lounges offer comfortable seating, complimentary refreshments, and high-speed Wi-Fi.

Tip: Arrive at Terminal 1 at least 1.5 hours before your domestic flight to ensure a stress-free check-in.

Terminal 2 (T2) – International Flights

Inaugurated in 2014, Terminal 2 is a state-of-the-art facility catering to international travelers. With an annual capacity of 10 million passengers, the terminal provides a seamless experience with:

• Spacious Check-in Counters: Designed to handle a high volume of international passengers efficiently.
• Immigration and Customs: Streamlined immigration processes ensure smooth entry and exit.
• Duty-Free Shopping: Terminal 2 boasts a variety of duty-free shops offering local handicrafts, luxury brands, and souvenirs.

Terminal 1 serves domestic flights, while the modern Terminal 2 accommodates international flights with premium facilities - Photo Source: Fanpage Sân Bay Quốc Tế Nội Bài

3. Airlines Operating at Noi Bai International Airport

Domestic Airlines

Noi Bai International Airport is home to some of Vietnam’s most reputable airlines, ensuring seamless connections between Hanoi and other major cities. These include:

• Vietnam Airlines: Vietnam’s national flag carrier offering high-quality service and frequent domestic routes.
• Bamboo Airways: Known for its excellent customer service and expanding network of domestic destinations.
• VietJet Air: A popular budget airline offering competitive prices for domestic and regional flights.

Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, and VietJet Air are the three major domestic airlines operating at Noi Bai - Photo Source: Website vov.vn

International Airlines

Noi Bai is a key hub for many international airlines, connecting Hanoi to the world. Some major international airlines operating here include:

• Korean Air and Asiana Airlines: Linking Hanoi with Seoul and other Korean cities.
• Japan Airlines and ANA (All Nippon Airways): Providing seamless connections between Hanoi and Tokyo/Osaka.
• Singapore Airlines and Thai Airways: Connecting Hanoi to Southeast Asia’s major hubs.

Tip: For long-haul international flights, it’s advisable to arrive at Terminal 2 at least 3 hours before departure.

4. Facilities and Services – Ensuring a Comfortable Journey

Essential Services

Noi Bai International Airport offers a wide range of services designed to enhance passenger convenience:

• Currency Exchange & ATMs: Available in both terminals, allowing passengers to exchange currencies or withdraw cash.
• Medical Services: On-site medical assistance is available to handle emergencies or provide necessary care.
• Wi-Fi: Free high-speed Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the airport, keeping travelers connected.

Travelers can enjoy duty-free shopping, relax in VIP lounges, and explore diverse dining options within the airport - Photo Source: Website noibaiairport.vn

Dining and Shopping Options

For travelers with extra time before a flight, Noi Bai offers an impressive selection of dining and shopping options:

• Dining: From traditional Vietnamese delicacies to international fast food, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor Phở or Bánh Mì before departing.
• Duty-Free Shopping: Located primarily in Terminal 2, duty-free shops feature cosmetics, liquor, fashion, and local souvenirs.

Lounges

• Business Lounges: Exclusive access for business and first-class passengers, offering private workspaces, gourmet meals, and premium beverages.
• Public Lounges: Open to all travelers for a fee, providing a calm environment to relax before a flight.

5. Transportation to and from Noi Bai International Airport

Airport Taxi

One of the most convenient ways to reach Hanoi’s city center from Noi Bai is by taxi. The journey takes approximately 40–50 minutes depending on traffic, with fares ranging from 300,000 to 400,000 VND. Official taxi companies such as Mai Linh and Taxi Group ensure a safe and reliable ride.

Once in the city, many travelers opt for hanoi motorbike rentals for convenient and flexible transportation.

Traveling between the airport and Hanoi’s city center is easy with taxis, ride-hailing services like Grab, or affordable airport buses - Photo Source: Website vietnamonline.com

Ride-Hailing Services

Grab is a popular alternative to traditional taxis. The app allows passengers to book a ride and pay via credit card or cash, making it a hassle-free option.

Shuttle Buses and Public Transport

• Shuttle Buses: Operated by Vietnam Airlines and Jetstar, these buses provide affordable transfers to the city center.
• Public Buses: Bus routes 86 and 90 connect the airport with various parts of Hanoi, offering an economical option for budget travelers. In addition to shuttle buses, the hanoi airport bus provides another affordable way to travel to and from the airport.

Tip: Pre-book your airport transfer or arrange for a reliable taxi to avoid long waits after arrival. 

6. Tips for First-Time Visitors – Navigating Noi Bai with Ease

Arriving at Noi Bai

For first-time visitors, arriving at Noi Bai can be overwhelming, especially during peak hours. To ensure a stress-free arrival:

• Follow Arrival Signs: Signs in English are available to guide passengers through immigration, baggage claim, and customs.
• Use Priority Lanes: If traveling business or first class, take advantage of priority lanes to speed up your process.

Departing from Noi Bai

When departing from Noi Bai, consider these tips for a smooth journey:

• Arrive Early: International travelers should arrive at least 3 hours before departure, while domestic travelers should aim for 1.5–2 hours.
• Check Terminal Information: Confirm whether your flight departs from Terminal 1 or Terminal 2 to avoid confusion
• Have Documents Ready: Prepare passports, visas, and boarding passes in advance for quick processing.

Tip: Download a translation app to assist with communication, though English is widely spoken at the airport.

Passengers should have their passports, visas, and boarding passes ready for quick and hassle-free airport procedures - Photo Source: Fanpage Click2Refund

7. Nearby Attractions – Explore Beyond the Airport

Co Loa Citadel

Located about 20 kilometers from Noi Bai, Co Loa Citadel is an ancient fortress dating back to the 3rd century BCE. Visitors can explore its ancient walls, pagodas, and museums that narrate Vietnam’s rich history.

Just 20 km from the airport, Co Loa Citadel is a historical site that showcases Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage - Photo Source: Facebook Viet Diversity

Thanh Chuong Viet Palace

A unique cultural complex that showcases traditional Vietnamese architecture, Thanh Chuong Viet Palace is a must-visit destination located just 15 kilometers from the airport. It’s an ideal spot for travelers interested in exploring local culture and heritage.

Hanoi Old Quarter

For those with longer layovers or time to spare, a visit to Hanoi’s Old Quarter offers an unforgettable cultural experience. Wander through bustling streets, sample local street food, and explore ancient temples and markets.

8. Future Development Plans – Aiming for Excellence

What’s Next for Noi Bai?

To meet the growing demand for air travel, Noi Bai International Airport is undergoing significant upgrades, including:

• Expansion of Terminal 2: Plans are underway to increase capacity to accommodate up to 15 million passengers annually.
• Runway Infrastructure Improvements: Enhancements to existing runways to improve operational efficiency and safety.
• Smart Airport Technologies: Implementation of smart systems to streamline passenger services and security.

These developments aim to transform Noi Bai into a world-class aviation hub capable of meeting the future demands of international travel.

Noi Bai Airport is planning to expand Terminal 2 and upgrade runways to meet future travel demands - Photo Source: Website hanoitimes.vn

Why Choose Noi Bai International Airport?

• Strategic Location: Convenient access to Hanoi and other northern provinces.
• Modern Amenities: Comprehensive services to ensure a seamless travel experience.
• Extensive Connectivity: Strong domestic and international flight networks.

Noi Bai International Airport is more than just a transit point—it’s a bridge that connects travelers to Vietnam’s rich culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re arriving, departing, or passing through, Noi Bai promises a comfortable and memorable journey.