SGN Airport, also known as Tan Son Nhat International Airport (IATA: SGN – ICAO: VVTS), is Vietnam’s most significant and busiest airport. It serves Ho Chi Minh City and the southern region of the country. Approximately 6 kilometers (4 miles) north of downtown Ho Chi Minh City, SGN is a significant hub for domestic and international flights. Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways are key operators.
The airport handles over 40 million passengers annually and is recognized for its strategic location, expanding infrastructure, and role in connecting Southeast Asia with global destinations.
It offers a range of facilities, including free WiFi, medical services, food courts, and kid-friendly areas, making travel more convenient and comfortable for all passengers. Located just north of the city center, the airport is easy to reach and well-equipped to handle domestic and international flights.
Passengers can find various services such as shopping, dining, and lounges, ensuring a smooth experience whether arriving, departing, or in transit. Its role as a significant hub makes it an essential gateway to Southeast Asia.
Contents
- 1 General Information
- 2 Parking Information
- 3 Contact Information
- 4 Passenger Information
- 5
- 6 Airlines and Destinations
- 7 Passenger Services and Amenities
- 8 Transportation and Access
- 9 Local Attractions Near SGN Airport
- 10 Travel Tips in SGN Airport
- 11 Frequently Asked Questions – SGN Airport
- 11.1 How can I navigate from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2 at Ho Chi Minh City airport (SGN Airport)?
- 11.2 What are the transportation options from Ho Chi Minh airport to the city center?
- 11.3 How often are arrival and departure updates posted at SGN airport?
- 11.4 What facilities are available at the international terminals of Ho Chi Minh City airport (SGN Airport)?
- 11.5 Can you list the airlines that operate from Terminal 2 at Ho Chi Minh City airport (SGN Airport)?
- 11.6 What is the historical significance behind the SGN airport code for Ho Chi Minh City (SGN Airport)?
- 11.7 Related
General Information
Location: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Country: Vietnam
Airport Type: Public, International
IATA Code: SGN
ICAO Code: VVTS
Elevation: 33 feet (10 metres)
Coordinates: 10°49′04″N 106°39′10″E
Timezone: UTC+7 (ICT)
Distance from City Centre: Approx. 6 km (4 miles) north of downtown Ho Chi Minh City
Website: www.vietnamairport.vn/sgn
Operator: Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV)
Services: Domestic and international flights, cargo, general aviation, airport parking
Parking Information
Tan Son Nhat International Airport offers a range of parking facilities for different durations.
Short-Term Parking
Rate: Approx. VND 5,000–10,000 per 30 minutes (~$0.20–USD 0.40)
Distance: Directly in front of both domestic and international terminals
Ideal For: Passenger pick-ups and short visits
Long-Term Parking
Rate: Approx. VND 80,000–100,000/day (~$3–USD 4/day)
Distance: Within walking distance or via shuttle, depending on a lot of factors
Ideal For: Overnight or extended travel
Payment Methods: Cash and mobile payments are accepted
Security: 24/7 security and surveillance
Contact Information
Parking Information Line: +84 28 3848 5634
General Enquiries: +84 28 3848 5634
Email: info.tansonnhat@vietnamairport.vn
FBO Coordination: Available through private handlers such as SAGS and VIAGS
Passenger Information
Immigration Requirements: Passport and visa or eVisa required for most travelers; visa exemptions available for select nationalities
Crew Requirements: Passport, crew ID/licence, General Declaration, and applicable visa
Transport Options: Taxis, ride-hailing apps (Grab), public buses, hotel shuttles, and car rentals
Nearby Accommodation:
Close to Airport: Ibis Saigon Airport Hotel, Holiday Inn & Suites Saigon Airport
In City Center: Caravelle Saigon, Hotel Nikko Saigon, The Reverie Saigon
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND); credit cards accepted in hotels and major retailers
Terminals and Facilities
Tan Son Nhat has two main terminals: Terminal 1 for domestic and Terminal 2 for international flights. Terminal 1 focuses on flights within Vietnam, while Terminal 2 serves overseas connections. Both terminals have clear signage in English and Vietnamese to help passengers navigate easily.
The airport offers free Wi-Fi throughout its terminals, and there are various restaurants and cafes to choose from. Currency exchange and banking services are available 24/7, along with medical centers and luggage storage options. Travelers can also access airport lounges on both terminals for added comfort.
| Facility | Location | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Free Wi-Fi | Both terminals | 24/7 |
| Currency Exchange | Both terminals | Open daily |
| Medical Services | Both terminals | 24/7 |
| Airport Lounges | Terminal 1 & 2 | With access passes |
| Luggage Storage | Terminal 1 & 2 | Open daily |
Arrivals and Departures
Arrivals and departures are separated, making the airport easy to use. The domestic terminal (Terminal 1) handles flights inside Vietnam, while the international terminal (Terminal 2) manages flights abroad.
Flight status is displayed on large digital boards with updates on delays or changes. Passengers should check these screens or use the airport’s official app to stay informed.
Taxis, ride-hailing, and buses are transportation options from the airport. Parking is available nearby. The airport security controls and customs processes are efficient, although peak hours can cause longer waiting times.
Airlines and Destinations
Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) serves a wide range of airlines and offers many routes inside and outside Vietnam. It connects Ho Chi Minh City to key cities across Asia, Europe, and beyond. The airport hosts many full-service and low-cost carriers.
Major Airlines
Vietnam Airlines is the primary carrier at SGN, operating many domestic and international flights. VietJet Air and Pacific Airlines provide budget options, mainly focusing on domestic and regional routes.
International airlines include Air France, Lufthansa, United Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and Japan Airlines. Middle Eastern carriers like Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Qatar Airways also fly here.
Asian airlines such as All Nippon Airways, Asiana Airlines, China Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Thai Airways, Korean Air, Malaysia Airlines, Philippine Airlines, and Cebu Pacific maintain regular services.
Low-cost carriers like AirAsia, Jetstar Asia Airways, Tiger Airways, and Mandarin Airlines expand travelers’ options for cheaper tickets.
Domestic and International Routes
SGN offers direct flights to over 90 destinations. Domestic routes frequently connect Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi, Vinh, and Da Nang. VietJet Air and Vietnam Airlines provide many of these services.
International flights link SGN to major hubs such as Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Beijing, Tokyo, and Sydney. Sichuan Airlines flies to Chengdu, while other carriers serve secondary points like Almaty and Astana with Air Astana.
The airport also has connections to smaller regional airports served by airlines like Lao Airlines and Cambodia Angkor Air, expanding travel options in Southeast Asia.
For a complete list of airlines and destinations served, visit the page on flights from SGN.
Passenger Services and Amenities
Tan Son Nhat Airport offers various services to support travelers throughout their visit. From smooth processing at check-in and immigration to dining, shopping, and staying connected, passengers can easily find what they need.
Check-In and Security
The airport features multiple check-in counters spread across Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Passengers flying internationally usually check in at Terminal 2, which handles most foreign carriers. Counters open at least two hours before departure, and staff assist with luggage and boarding passes.
Customs and immigration are well-organized. Visitors needing a Vietnamese visa on arrival can use the dedicated visa counter near immigration booths on Level 1 of Terminal 2. This helps speed up entry for travelers without pre-arranged visas. Security checkpoints follow international standards to ensure passenger safety and efficient flow.
Dining and Shopping
Tan Son Nhat offers a variety of restaurants and cafes in both terminals. Passengers will find local Vietnamese food and international choices, ranging from quick snacks to sit-down meals.
Shoppers can explore numerous retail outlets, including duty-free stores selling electronics, souvenirs, and luxury goods. Convenience shops and pharmacies are also available. This mix caters to all budgets and preferences within the airport.
Airport hotels near the terminals provide easy access for travelers looking to rest or stay overnight between flights.
Connectivity and Lounges
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport terminals, allowing passengers to stay online while waiting. Charging stations are placed near seating areas, making it easier to power devices.
Several airport lounges serve business and premium class travelers. These lounges offer comfortable seating, refreshments, and workspaces. Some lounges also feature shower facilities, providing added comfort during layovers. Passengers can access lounges through airline tickets, memberships, or purchasing entry.
For further details on the facility, visit the Ho Chi Minh City Airport Guide.
Transportation and Access
SGN Airport offers several ways for travelers to reach their destination quickly and conveniently. Options include public buses, taxis, ride-hailing apps, and car rentals. Destinations like Ho Chi Minh City’s center and popular spots like Ben Thanh Market are easily accessible.
Public and Private Transport Options
Public buses are a low-cost way to get from SGN Airport to the city. Bus numbers 109 and 152 connect the airport to central locations. Bus stops are marked near the domestic and international terminals, around Columns 4 and 12.
Taxis are readily available outside the terminals. They charge by meter and provide direct, private rides. Popular taxi companies include Vinasun and Mai Linh.
Ride-hailing services like Grab, Be, Bee, and Go Viet operate in the airport area. They offer app-based bookings and set pricing, often cheaper than traditional taxis. Some drivers meet passengers at designated pickup points outside terminals.
Car rental companies also serve SGN. Travelers can pre-book or rent on arrival, which is useful for those who want more freedom to explore beyond the city.
Access to Ho Chi Minh City
SGN Airport is about 7 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City center, making travel time typically 30 minutes by car. This depends on traffic, which can be heavy during peak hours.
Heading to areas like Ben Thanh Market is straightforward. Taxis and ride-hailing services offer direct routes, while buses drop passengers at central stops a short walk away.
Public transport can take up to 50 minutes longer, but it is affordable and reliable. The airport’s location and variety of transport options help visitors easily reach hotels, business centers, and tourist spots.
Many travelers conveniently book airport transfers in advance to avoid confusion after arrival. Drivers meet passengers at the airport with confirmation details, ensuring a smooth start to the trip.
Learn more about finding transportation at SGN Airport on the Ho Chi Minh City Airport Transportation page.
Local Attractions Near SGN Airport
War Remnants Museum
A powerful and educational museum chronicling the history and impact of the Vietnam War.
Ben Thanh Market
A bustling indoor market offering souvenirs, local food, clothing, and handicrafts.
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon
A stunning French colonial-era cathedral is located in the heart of the city.
Cu Chi Tunnels
An extensive underground tunnel network used during the Vietnam War is now open for guided tours.
Bitexco Financial Tower & Sky Deck
A modern skyscraper with an observation deck offers panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City.
Reunification Palace
A historical landmark that served as the presidential headquarters during the Vietnam War.
Travel Tips in SGN Airport
Best Times to Park:
Midday and late evening tend to be less crowded
Weekends and holidays can see heavy traffic—arrive early
Additional Notes:
The airport is undergoing expansion with a new terminal (T3) expected to open by 2025
Ride-hailing services like Grab are often cheaper and more convenient than traditional taxis.
Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminals
Local SIM cards and currency exchange are available upon arrival
Frequently Asked Questions – SGN Airport
Ho Chi Minh City airport has two main terminals serving different flight types. Visitors can find several ways to travel to the city center. Information on flight arrivals and departures is regularly updated. The airport offers various facilities for international passengers. Terminal 2 hosts specific airlines. The airport code SGN has a historic background.
Passengers can use shuttle bus services that run regularly between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Due to the distance and traffic, walking between the terminals is not recommended. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are also options for quick transfers.
What are the transportation options from Ho Chi Minh airport to the city center?
Passengers can choose from airport taxis, ride-sharing services, and buses that connect the airport to central Ho Chi Minh City. Depending on traffic, the journey typically takes 30 to 45 minutes. Some hotels also offer shuttle services.
How often are arrival and departure updates posted at SGN airport?
Flight information screens at the airport are updated continuously. Passengers can check for real-time updates on arrivals and departures in both terminals. Airlines also provide updates through their counters and mobile apps.
What facilities are available at the international terminals of Ho Chi Minh City airport (SGN Airport)?
International terminals offer lounges, duty-free shops, currency exchange, and dining options. Services like baggage storage, free Wi-Fi, and information desks assist travelers. Medical and disabled-access facilities are also available.
Can you list the airlines that operate from Terminal 2 at Ho Chi Minh City airport (SGN Airport)?
Terminal 2 primarily serves international airlines, including Vietnam Airlines, Korean Air, Cathay Pacific, and Emirates. Most international and some regional carriers use this terminal for their flights.
What is the historical significance behind the SGN airport code for Ho Chi Minh City (SGN Airport)?
The code SGN comes from the city’s former name, Saigon. This was the official name before the city was renamed Ho Chi Minh City in 1976. The airport code has remained SGN to maintain consistency in aviation.
See the Ho Chi Minh City Tan Son Nhat Airport guide for more details.
