Danang International Airport (DAD)

Location

Danang International Airport (DAD) is located in Hai Chau, a district of Danang city, approximately 5 kilometers from the city center. While it remains the third largest airport in Vietnam after Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) and Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), its size and passenger volume are considerably smaller compared to the two major airports.

Established in 1940, Danang International Airport played a crucial role as a military base until the reunification of Vietnam in 1975. In December 2011, the original airport facility was closed, and operations were moved to a newly constructed terminal nearby.

Danang Airport

The modern airport features two parallel runways, each approximately 3,050 meters in length, capable of accommodating larger aircraft, including Boeing 747s, 767s, Airbus A330s, and Antonov 124. With an annual capacity of six million passengers, the airport boasts upgraded facilities and services that meet contemporary aviation standards.

Danang International Airport manages around 150 flights daily with over 15 airlines, facilitating convenient domestic travel to various destinations such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Pleiku, and Qui Nhon via Vietnam Airlines and Pacific Airlines.

In addition to domestic flights, the airport offers numerous international connections, primarily to destinations in Southeast Asia and East Asia. Flights include routes such as Seoul to Danang (operated by Korean Air and Asiana Airlines), Guangzhou to Danang (China Southern Airlines), and Singapore to Danang (SilkAir). The airport anticipates expanding with more international routes to popular locations in neighboring countries, including Hong Kong, Japan, and Thailand.

Shopping at Danang Airport

Shopping amenities at Danang International Airport are somewhat limited, which is common across international airports in Vietnam. Currently, there is a small shopping area within the domestic terminal where travelers can find local products, including clothing, accessories, and electronic devices.

For those seeking unique souvenirs, the airport features shops that offer a selection of traditional Vietnamese items, such as local delicacies, handicrafts, and silk textiles for passengers wishing to take home a piece of Vietnam.

Additionally, the international departure lounge houses several duty-free shops that sell a range of international brands, including clothing, accessories, alcohol, jewelry, and electronics. Prices in these shops tend to be lower due to tax exemptions, but it is advisable not to wait until arrival at the airport to shop.

Dining at Danang Airport

Danang International Airport provides a few options for light refreshments and meals for travelers awaiting their flights. Similar to other major airports like Tan Son Nhat in Ho Chi Minh City and Noi Bai in Hanoi, the dining choices are somewhat limited. On the first floor of the airport, a sit-down restaurant named Lucky presents a menu that includes both Vietnamese and Western dishes, alongside some fast-food outlets offering sandwiches and snacks. Most beverages are pre-packaged, so expectations for variety here may be modest.

It is highly recommended that travelers enjoy a meal in the city before heading to the airport. One option is to explore Nguyen Tri Phuong street, just half a kilometer from the airport, where numerous restaurants serve authentic Vietnamese cuisine at reasonable prices. Some local favorites include Hong Phuc Rice at 164-166 Nguyen Tri Phuong and Ba Bong Restaurant at 112 Nguyen Tri Phuong.

Business Lounge at Danang Airport

The business lounge at Danang International Airport, while not as luxurious or sophisticated as those at Tan Son Nhat or Noi Bai, does offer some additional services for business travelers willing to pay extra. VIP passengers can enjoy hot meals, albeit with limited choices.

For those who prefer a quieter environment, there is a bar area for cocktails and desserts in a private setting. If work needs to be addressed, a well-equipped work area with Wi-Fi and office facilities is available. Relaxation zones are also provided for passengers wishing to unwind or take a brief nap.

From Da Nang Airport to City Center

Da Nang Airport is conveniently located just 5 kilometers from the city center and approximately 8 kilometers from beach resort areas. Taxis are the most convenient mode of transportation available; passengers can easily hail one upon exiting the airport. Taxi fares to downtown hotels typically range around $5, while trips to beachfront resorts may cost approximately $8.

Travelers' Reviews of Danang Airport

The modern terminal, equipped with updated facilities, has significantly enhanced the experience for tourists arriving in Danang. Both the airport's appearance and its service quality have seen considerable improvements.

Goods:

• Passengers find that luggage collection is efficient and prompt, primarily due to the relatively fewer daily flights, making baggage handling faster compared to other international airports in Vietnam.
• The proximity of the airport, being only 5 kilometers from the center of Da Nang, means travelers do not endure long rides after lengthy flights. This is especially beneficial for those arriving on late flights, allowing them quick access to their accommodations. In contrast to beach destinations like Nha Trang, the short distance offers a notable advantage. Passengers can choose from reputable taxi companies, such as Mai Linh Taxi or Airport Taxi.

Bads:

• Dining and shopping options are limited, leaving travelers with few choices to satisfy their hunger or shop for last-minute items.