Jazmin Li
Can Tho International Airport (IATA: VCA, ICAO: VVCT) is located in Can Tho, in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam. The airport was inaugurated in 2011, following an investment of US$150 million to build on 20,750 square meters of land. It aimed to process up to 5 million passengers annually and boost the Mekong Delta's economy. The airport has two phases of expansion, with the first phase improving the runway and apron, enabling the handling of medium-range aircraft. The second phase involved constructing a new terminal, cargo terminal, and other facilities, with a capacity of 2 million passengers per year. While the airport operates at a loss, serving only 20% of its designed capacity, it plays a vital role in the region's air travel and development.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Former name | Trà Nóc Airport |
| Inauguration date | 1 January 2011 |
| Location | Can Tho, Mekong Delta region of Vietnam |
| Land area | 20,750 square metres (223,400 sq ft) |
| Passenger capacity | 5 million per year |
| Runway length | 2,400 m |
| Runway width | 45 m |
| Apron area | 27,491 m2 |
| Phase 1 cost | 370 billion VND ($23 million) |
| Phase 2 cost | 400–500 billion VND ($25 to $31 million) |
| Terminal capacity | 2 million passengers per year |
| Annual passengers | 20% of capacity |
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What You'll Learn
Can Tho International Airport history
Can Tho International Airport, formerly known as Tra Noc Airport, is the only international airport in the Mekong Delta region of southwestern Vietnam. The airport is located just over 7 kilometres from Can Tho city centre, making it easily accessible to passengers.
The airport was inaugurated on 1 January 2011, after receiving an investment of US$150 million to build on 20,750 square meters of land. It aimed to process up to 5 million passengers annually and boost the Mekong Delta's economy, defence, security, and international integration.
The history of the airport dates back to the Vietnam War. Tra Noc Airport was originally constructed in 1965 by United States Air Force (USAF) civil engineering units as a military airfield, which became known as Binh Thuy Air Base. It served as an airbase for the USAF and was the headquarters of the Republic of Vietnam Air Force (VNAF) 4th Air Division until 1975. After 1975, the facility remained unused for some time before it operated as a small regional airport for Can Tho.
In 2005, the airport underwent renovation and expansion to achieve international status. The expansion work started on 4 January 2006 and was carried out in two phases, covering an area of 85.04 hectares. The first phase included improving the runway and apron to handle medium-range aircraft, while the second phase involved constructing a new terminal, cargo terminal, and other facilities. The airport officially opened on 1 January 2011, serving both domestic and international flights.
Today, Can Tho International Airport offers various amenities and dining options for passengers, including restaurants, cafes, and lounges. It primarily operates domestic flights within Vietnam but also has international routes to destinations like Seoul and Taipei.
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Airport facilities and services
Can Tho International Airport is located in Can Tho, in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam. The airport was inaugurated in 2011, with the aim of processing up to 5 million passengers annually. It has a paved runway capable of handling medium-range aircraft such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 767.
Can Tho International Airport offers a range of facilities and services to cater to the needs of its passengers. Here is an overview of what you can expect:
- Terminals: The airport has two terminals, one for domestic and the other international. The international terminal has four floors and is almost three times larger than the domestic terminal. Both terminals are within easy walking distance of each other via a covered walkway.
- Dining Options: While there are no specific restaurant names mentioned, Vietnam’s airports generally feature chain restaurants such as Burger King, Highlands Coffee, Big Bowl, and Star Cafe.
- Shopping: The airport provides duty-free shopping with the usual selection of perfumes and alcohol, as well as souvenir shops selling items like ao dai dresses and non la conical bamboo hats.
- WiFi: Free WiFi is available throughout the airport, and Vietnamese SIM cards can be purchased near the exit to stay connected during your travels.
- Currency Exchange: Currency exchange centres are available in the departure and arrival halls of the international terminal, ensuring you have the local currency needed for your trip.
- ATMs: ATMs can be found just outside the entrances of the airport, dispensing sums of 2,000,000 to 5,000,000 VND per transaction. Additional ATMs are located within the domestic terminal.
- Lounges: The airport offers lounges for passengers, including the Rose business lounge, accessible to VietJet business-class passengers and Plaza Premium members.
- Other Amenities: A kids' zone, sleep zone with loungers and massage chairs, luggage storage, and a printer service are available.
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Queues and waiting times
The airport is Vietnam's busiest, serving 41 million passengers in 2023, and is expected to be able to accommodate 50 million passengers following the opening of Terminal 3. Its capacity has previously been noted as a problem, with the airport reaching its full capacity of 20 million passengers in 2013, two years earlier than predicted.
However, other airports in Vietnam, such as Da Nang International Airport, are described as "rarely overcrowded", with a separate reviewer noting that the immigration line was 'long' but "went by quicker than I expected".
Can Tho International Airport, which was inaugurated in 2011, aimed to be able to process up to 5 million passengers a year. However, it is currently operating at a loss, serving only 20% of its designed capacity.
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Transport to and from the airport
Can Tho International Airport is located in Can Tho in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam. The airport was inaugurated on 1 January 2011, with the aim of processing up to 5 million passengers annually.
The following transport options are available when travelling to and from Can Tho International Airport:
- By bus: There are several bus lines that service the airport, providing easy access to and from the city centre and other districts.
- By taxi: Taxis are readily available at the airport and can be a convenient option for travellers. Trusted taxi companies within Vietnam include Mai Linh and Vinasun, whose representatives can be found at the airport taxi bays.
- By hired car: For a more personalised experience, travellers can arrange a hired car service through their hotel or a local car rental agency. This option can provide a fixed price for transportation to and from the airport.
- By motorcycle taxi: For a more adventurous option, travellers can opt for a motorcycle taxi, which can be a quick and efficient way to navigate through busy city traffic.
- By shuttle service: Some hotels in the area may offer shuttle services to and from the airport for their guests. It is recommended to check with your accommodation provider to see if this service is available.
- By public transportation: For those on a budget, public transportation options such as buses or trains may be available, depending on the location of your origin or destination. It is advisable to research the local public transportation network beforehand to ensure a smooth journey.
When travelling to and from Can Tho International Airport, it is always a good idea to allow for ample travel time and to be mindful of potential traffic delays, especially during peak hours or holiday seasons. Additionally, it is beneficial to have local currency on hand to pay for any transportation fees or services.
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Nearby hotels and attractions
Can Tho International Airport is located in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam. The city of Can Tho is just 20 minutes from the airport and is one of Vietnam's major cities, boasting a unique riverine lifestyle. Can Tho offers a range of accommodation options, from upscale resorts to sustainable homestays, and plenty of attractions to keep visitors entertained.
Hotels
For a luxurious stay, the Sheraton Can Tho is a five-star hotel overlooking the Can Tho River, near Ninh Kieu Wharf and Night Market. The Azerai Can Tho Resort and Victoria Can Tho Resort are also upscale accommodation options offering heartfelt hospitality. For a more sustainable and intimate experience, Mekong Rustic provides a homestay experience.
Attractions
Can Tho is known for its floating markets, such as Cai Rang, where you can enjoy a breakfast of Hu Tieu noodles surrounded by colourful boats and exotic produce. Ninh Kieu Wharf is another popular attraction, serving as a hub for cargo ships, tourist boats, and high-speed ferries. The city also features traditional craft villages like Hu Tieu Craft Village, where you can learn about rice noodle production and explore workshops.
Can Tho has a tropical climate, with heavy rainfall in the summers and hot, dry weather for most of the rest of the year. December and January are the coolest months, making them ideal for exploring the city's attractions. The city also boasts diverse historical sites, fruit orchards, and cuisine that reflects the region's cultural blend.
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Frequently asked questions
It is a medium-sized airport that serves both domestic and international flights. It offers modern facilities and services, including shops and restaurants, to cater to passengers' needs.
Typically, the busiest time at the airport is during the morning and evening when most domestic and international flights depart. It is recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight to avoid potential delays or long queues.
You can take a taxi or use a ride-sharing service. There are also public buses available outside the airport terminal that go to various locations in the city.
