Hanoi Airport – A Comprehensive Guide for Your Journey

Hanoi Airport is one of the three largest airports in Vietnam. It is the significant gateway in the North of Vietnam that welcomes millions of domestic and international passengers every year. 

This article below will introduce essential information you need to know about Hanoi Airport and helpful travel tips for your smooth flight.

Hanoi Airport – Essential Travel Tips For The Best Experiences When Visiting Vietnam

1. About Hanoi Airport

Hanoi Airport is officially named as Noi Bai International Airport, located at Phu Minh Commune, Soc Son District, Hanoi city. It is 28 km away from the center and takes about 30 to 45 minutes to reach the city center. At 650 hectares, Noi Bai is the second-largest airport in Vietnam, behind the 850 hectares Ho Chi Minh Airport, playing a crucial role in air transportation of Hanoi and nearby northwest provinces. Its IATA code is HAN, derived from the city’s name of Hanoi.

2. Hanoi Airport Terminals

Hanoi Airport has two main passenger terminals that are: Terminal 1 for Domestic passengers and Terminal 2 for International passenger.

2.1 Hanoi Airport Terminal 1 – for domestic passengers

Hanoi Airport Terminal 1 is a Y-shaped structure with 5 halls from A to E standing near together, each with 4 storeys. The Terminal 1 was put into operation in October 2001 covering 90,000 square meters including 04 areas: Hall A, Hall B, Hall C, Hall D, its handling capacity of 6 million passengers per year. In the end of 2013, Hall E was expanded in the area of T1 terminal, enhancing the total area up to 115.000 square meters and the airport capacity of 9 million passengers per year.

Here are the functions that each level of Hanoi Airport Terminal provided:

Level 1: Arrival and baggage claim area

This is the area to welcome passengers after the plane lands at Hanoi Airport, pick up luggage and meet friends and relatives.

Level 2: Departing area

This is the area for passengers to check in, baggage drop-off and wait for the plane to take off. Domestic airlines check-in counters which are located at the level 2 of each hall, so it is important for passengers to know the counters for their respective airline.

• Vietnam Airlines check-in counters are located in Hall A and B.
• Bamboo Airways check-in counters are in Hall A, specifically counters A15 to A29.
• Vietjet Air check-in counters are concentrated in Hall A and Hall E. Hall A counters A1 to A14 are for flights from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi to Danang, while other domestic flights check-in at Hall E counters E22 to E33.
• Vietravel Airlines check-in counters are in Hall E, counters E34 to E37.
• Pacific Airlines also has check-in counters in Hall E, specifically counters E15 to E18.

Level 3: Staff area 

This is where airport operations and management departments are concentrated, so passengers are limited to entering this area.

Level 4: Service area

This floor is where restaurants, coffee shops and spas gather, serving the dining and resting needs of passengers.

2.2 Hanoi Airport Terminal 2 – for international passengers

Hanoi Airport Terminal 2 was opened at the end of 2014  with 4 storeys. The terminal offers 96 check-in counters, ten self-service kiosks, 17 boarding gates and 283 flight information display systems. The distance between the two stations is quite far so passengers can travel by bus. 

Here are the functions of each level of Hanoi Airport Terminal 2:

• Level 1: International Arrival Hall

The first floor is where arriving passengers pick up their luggages after completing customs procedures.

• Level 2: Immigration and Customs procedures for Transit and International Arrivals

The second floor is the drop-off point for international airlines passengers. Here, passengers undergo immigration and customs procedures then move down the level 1 to get luggages.

• Level 3: International Departure Hall

This level is for departed passengers to check in for flights, check in luggage and wait for flight times. 

• Level 4:  Lounge for Business Class and Commercial Air Services

The fourth floor serves as a lounge area for VIP guests and Business Class passengers. This is also the place where representative offices of foreign airlines operating flights in Noi Bai Airport are concentrated.

3. Procedures of Arrivals & Departure Flights

3.1 Hanoi Airport Departures Procedures

The departure process at Hanoi Airport is designed to be simple and easy for every passenger. It is important to know the necessary steps to get a smooth experience.

• Step 1: Check-in

Airlines typically offer both online and in-person check-in options. Arriving at the airport at least two hours before your domestic flight and three hours before an international flight is recommended. Check-in counters usually open 2 hours before the scheduled departure time and close 45 minutes before departure.

International passengers are required to show a valid passport, visa (if required), and boarding pass at the check-in counter. Luggage allowance and weight restrictions may vary depending on the airline and ticket class, so it is important to check with the airline beforehand.

• Step 2: Security Check

After checking in, proceed to the security checkpoint. Be prepared to remove your shoes, belts, and empty your pockets before passing through the security scanner

• Step 3: Immigration

International travelers must clear immigration. Make sure you have your passport and visa (if necessary) ready for inspection.

• Step 4: Boarding

Following security and immigration, follow the signs to your departure gate. Stay attentive to gate announcements for any updates on your flight’s status.

3.2 Hanoi Airport Arrivals Procedures

Arriving at Hanoi Airport is a welcoming experience for visitors, and it is good know in advance what to expect:

• Step 1: Immigration: International arrivals involve passing through immigration. Ensure your passport and visa (if required) are readily accessible for inspection.
• Step 2: Baggage Claim: After immigration, proceed to the baggage claim area to collect your checked luggage. Verify the baggage carousel number on the display screens.
• Step 3: Customs: Following luggage retrieval, you’ll pass through customs. Make sure you’ve declared any items as required by Vietnam’s customs regulations.
• Step 4: Exit: Once through customs, you’ll find yourself in the arrivals hall, where you can arrange transportation to your Hanoi destination.

4. Popular Services in Hanoi Airport

4.1 Hanoi Airport Food

Hanoi Airport offers a variety of food counters for passengers. You can try traditional Vietnamese dishes such as: Pho, Banh My, fast food of famous brands such as: Burger King, Popeyes or foreign cuisines. Satisfy your cravings before or after your flight.

4.2 Shops at Hanoi Airport

For those seeking souvenirs or last-minute shopping, don’t miss this opportunity at Hanoi Airport. There are  a variety of shops that sell clothing, electronics, gifts, and local handicrafts. Duty-free stores provide excellent deals on liquor and tobacco that are perfect for picking up travel mementos.

4.3 Hanoi Airport SIM Card

Staying connected while in Hanoi is easy when purchasing a local SIM card. Multiple providers offer data and calling packages with affordable fees tailored to your communication during your stay in Vietnam. You should choose trusted providers in Vietnam such as: Viettel, Mobiphone and Vinaphone.

4.4 Sleep pod service

If you are looking for a place to stretch out before the flight departs, you can rent VATC sleep pods which are available in both terminals. Each sleeping pod is designed as a mini hotel with private space and full of amenities such as: a bed, a TV and Wi-fi. Here, you can comfortably relax and recharge your battery without being disturbed by the noise.

4.5 Others services

• Money exchange, ATM 

Changing money is easy and convenient at Hanoi Airport. You can exchange your currency at trusted bank stalls or ATMs located near the airport’s entrances. It’s also a good idea to bring some US dollars to Vietnam, as they are widely accepted in Vietnam and many other countries worldwide.

• Free chargers

Charging stations can be found in lobby areas and lounge areas of Terminals 1 and Terminal 2. You may also charge your devices at airport restaurants while tasting flavorful food.

5. Hanoi Airport Transfer to Hotel

Many hotels in Hanoi offer airport shuttle services. They offer airport shuttle services to transport guests directly from the airport to their accommodations. It’s highly advisable to confirm this service with your hotel prior to your trip, especially during peak travel seasons or if you have late-night or early-morning arrivals.

6. Hanoi Airport to City Center

The distance from Hanoi Airport to the city center varies depending on the specific location within the city center, with an average distance of approximately 30 kilometers (18.6 miles). Typically, the journey takes around 30 to 45 minutes, however; the traffic conditions and the chosen route can influence the travel time. Now, let’s explore the various transfer options available at Hanoi Airport for visitors.

6.1 Booking a Private Cars

If you prefer a more personalized and private transportation experience, booking a private car in advance is an excellent choice. You can book a private car with VM Travel to have an enjoyable ride with our English speaking driver, eliminating language barriers.

6.2 Taking a Shuttle bus

Many people choose to take a shuttle bus to the city center because of its affordable price and convenience. Currently, there are three domestic airlines  that pick up passengers from the airport to city center and vice versa: Vietnam Airlines, VietjetAir, and Jesta Pacific Airline. The ticket price is 40,000 VND ($2)/person. When getting on the bus, you have to inform the drivers about your preferred destination or address because they won’t stop if no one asks to get off.

6.3 Hiring a Taxi

Taxis are one of the most common forms of transportation at Hanoi Airport which are readily available at the airport 24/24. Ensure you choose reputable taxi companies with a taximeter before starting your journey. Some trusted taxi companies are: Hanoi Mai Linh taxi, Noi Bai taxi and Hanoi Thang Long taxi.

6.4 Book a Grab

Grab is a very common app-based booking mobility in Vietnam. Download this mobile app before coming to Vietnam and book for a convenient and reliable ride to your desired location.

In conclusion, VM Travel hopes that the provided information about Hanoi Airport has been helpful to you. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a frequent traveler, knowing about the services and facilities available at the airport can enhance your overall experience. We hope you will have unforgettable experiences in Vietnam.