SGN Airport Insights & Guide
- Frequent Flier Tips
- Navigating the Terminals
- Connecting Between Terminals
- Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
- Parking Facilities & Options
- Transportation Options
- Airport Hotels
- Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
- Passenger Services
- Flight Status Info
- Airport Facts & Stats
- Airport History
- Airport Contact Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
Getting to Know SGN Airport
Welcome to Vietnam's busiest airport, Tan Son Nhat International, serving as the primary gateway to Ho Chi Minh City. This airport uniquely features a captivating lotus flower-shaped terminal, symbolizing purity and resilience, and handles over 40 million passengers annually. This concise guide aims to streamline your travel experience, covering everything from flight updates and parking to dining and shopping. For further details on navigating airports, visit our Comprehensive Airport Guide at iFly.
iFly Tip: Travel smarter with our advice on airport navigation.
Navigating SGN's Terminals
SGN has two terminals: the Domestic Terminal and the International Terminal. The Domestic Terminal has 16 gates and serves domestic flights within Vietnam, while the International Terminal has 62 gates and serves both international and domestic flights. Major airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, Jetstar Pacific, and Vietjet Air operate out of both terminals.
When arriving at the airport, follow the signs to the appropriate terminal for your flight. If you are unsure which terminal to go to, check with your airline or consult the airport's website for more information. Once inside the terminal, check the flight information displays to find your airline and departure gate.
Both terminals offer a variety of food and beverage options, as well as duty-free shops and other services. Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
SGN Airport has only one main terminal, so passengers do not have to worry about transferring between terminals. The terminal is divided into two levels, with the ground level serving arrivals and the upper level serving departures. Passengers can easily navigate between the levels using the escalators or elevators available. The terminal also has a variety of shops, restaurants, and lounges to keep passengers entertained while waiting for their flights.
Frequent Flier Tips
To help make your experience at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from SGN-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:
Navigating the Terminals
"SGN has two main terminals: Domestic Terminal (T1) and International Terminal (T2). If you’re flying domestically, make sure to arrive at least 90 minutes before your flight to navigate the busy T1. For international flights, T2 is well-organized but can get crowded during peak hours, so plan accordingly." — Minh T., Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, August 2023
"The signage in SGN is clear, but if you ever feel lost, the information desks are very helpful. They can guide you to your gate or any amenities you might need." — Lan P., Bien Hoa, Vietnam, September 2023
Getting To/From the City
"The airport is only about 6 kilometers from the city center, but traffic can be unpredictable. I recommend using a ride-hailing app like Grab for a more reliable and often cheaper option than traditional taxis." — Huy N., Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, October 2023
"If you’re traveling light, the bus is a great option. Bus 152 goes directly to the city center and is very affordable. Just make sure you have small change for the fare." — Thao L., Thu Duc, Vietnam, November 2023
Parking
"For those driving to the airport, the multi-story car park is convenient and reasonably priced. It’s connected to both terminals by a covered walkway, which is great during the rainy season." — Quang P., Tan Binh, Vietnam, December 2023
"If you’re just dropping someone off, the short-term parking area is right in front of the terminals. It’s free for the first 10 minutes, which is usually enough time for a quick goodbye." — An D., Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, January 2024
Inside the Airport
"SGN has a variety of dining options, but I highly recommend trying the local Vietnamese food in the food court. The pho and banh mi are delicious and reasonably priced." — Hoa N., Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, February 2024
"For last-minute souvenirs, the shops in the international terminal offer a good selection of local crafts and snacks. Perfect for a quick gift before your flight." — Khoa T., Binh Duong, Vietnam, March 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"Security lines can get long, especially during peak travel times. Arrive early and have your documents ready to speed up the process. Also, keep an eye on the flight information screens for any updates." — Mai L., Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, April 2024
"If you have a long layover, consider booking a lounge pass. The lounges at SGN offer comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary snacks and drinks. It’s a great way to relax and recharge." — Tuan N., Vung Tau, Vietnam, May 2024
iFly Tip: Discover how pilots manage each phase of flight on our flight guide.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
At Ho Chi Minh City Airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of the Main Terminal. However, there are strict parking restrictions in place to ensure the safety and efficiency of airport operations. Drivers are not allowed to park or leave their vehicles unattended at the curbside. Any unattended vehicles will be towed away immediately.
For those who need to wait for their arriving passengers, the airport provides a cell-phone waiting area located near the Main Terminal. Drivers can park their vehicles for free in this area and wait for their passengers to call them before proceeding to the curbside for pick-up. This area is a convenient option for those who want to avoid circling around the airport while waiting for their passengers.
Parking Facilities & Options
SGN offers various parking options for travelers. There are multiple parking lots and garages located near the main terminal, providing easy access to the airport.
For those waiting to pick up arriving passengers, there are cell phone waiting areas available. These areas allow drivers to wait in their cars until their passengers are ready to be picked up.
Handicapped parking is available in all parking lots and garages. Designated spaces are located near the entrances of the facilities for easy access.
If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available. These parking facilities offer shuttle services to and from the airport, making it a convenient option for travelers.
Transportation Options
The airport, located in Vietnam, offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers:
- Car Rentals: Major rental providers such as Avis, Budget, and Hertz are available at the airport. It is recommended to book a car in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel times.
- Taxis: Taxi services are available at the airport, with drop-off areas located outside of the terminal. Fares are based on distance traveled and can vary depending on traffic. It is important to negotiate the fare with the driver before starting the journey.
- Ride-Share Services: Shared ride services, such as Grab and GoViet, are popular options for travelers. Pickup areas are located outside of the terminal. Be aware that there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and luggage allowed in these vehicles.
- Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles are available for those who prefer a more convenient option. The service is provided by the airport and offers pickup and drop-off at designated areas. Fares are based on distance traveled and can be purchased at the airport.
- Public Transportation: For those on a budget, public transportation options are also available. The airport is connected to the city's bus system, with buses departing from the airport every 15-20 minutes. Fares are affordable and can be purchased directly from the driver.
iFly Tip: Learn how takeoff, cruising, and landing are coordinated in the cockpit with our cockpit operations overview.
Airport Hotels
When traveling, convenience, comfort, and quality are paramount. That's why we've compiled a list of the best hotels near the airport. Whether you're in search of a chic, stylish stay or a cozy, budget-friendly option, you'll find a hotel to suit your needs. From properties boasting complimentary WiFi and private parking to those offering relaxing spa centers and inviting swimming pools, there's something for everyone. Each hotel listed is conveniently located within a short distance from the airport, ensuring a hassle-free commute. Moreover, many of these hotels are in close proximity to local attractions, providing an excellent opportunity to explore the vibrant city. Read on to discover the best hotel options and book your stay today.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
The airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options to keep travelers entertained during their layovers. For those looking for a quick bite, there are several fast food chains such as KFC, Burger King, and Lotteria located throughout the airport. For a more authentic Vietnamese experience, Pho 24 and Banh Mi Bay are highly recommended. Both restaurants offer traditional Vietnamese dishes at affordable prices.
When it comes to shopping, there are plenty of options to choose from. The airport has a variety of duty-free stores selling cosmetics, alcohol, and tobacco products. For those looking for souvenirs, there are several gift shops that sell traditional Vietnamese handicrafts and clothing. One store that stands out is the Lacquerware shop, which offers beautifully crafted lacquerware items that make for unique and memorable gifts.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at Ho Chi Minh Tan Son Nhat Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.
Passenger Services
- Free Wi-Fi: Ho Chi Minh Tan Son Nhat Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
- Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, the lost and found office is located in the arrivals area for your convenience.
- Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, Ho Chi Minh Tan Son Nhat Airport features designated children's play areas.
- Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services for passengers with special needs. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
- ATM: ATMs are available throughout the airport, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
- Medical Help: In case of a medical emergency, a fully equipped medical center is located in the main terminal. Airport staff are also available to assist with arranging transportation to a nearby hospital if needed.
- Airport Lounges: Ho Chi Minh Tan Son Nhat Airport features several lounges, including the Orchid Lounge and the Rose Lounge. These lounges offer amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, beverages, snacks, and comfortable seating areas to relax before your flight. Some lounges also provide shower facilities and workstations for those needing to freshen up or catch up on work.
Flight Status Info
As a traveler, it's important to stay up-to-date with the status of your flight departure. Ho Chi Minh City Airport offers several ways for passengers to check their flight status. One of the easiest ways is to use the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the terminal. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
In addition to the FIDS, passengers can also be alerted about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes via the use of airline mobile phone apps. Most airlines offer their own mobile apps, which can be downloaded onto a smartphone or tablet. These apps allow passengers to receive push notifications, text messages, or emails about any changes to their flight status.
Another way to stay informed about flight status is to sign up for alerts through the airline's website. Passengers can enter their flight information and contact details to receive updates via text, email, or push notifications. This is a great option for travelers who prefer to receive updates directly to their phone or email inbox.
Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at SGN by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Airport Facts & Stats
- Location: Ho Chi Minh Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) is located in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
- Terminals: The airport has one main terminal, divided into domestic and international sections.
- Airlines Served: The airport is served by major airlines including Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Jetstar Pacific. For a list of all airlines, check out the SGN Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Ho Chi Minh Tan Son Nhat Airport handles approximately 40 million passengers annually, with an average of 110,000 passengers per day.
- Daily Flights: The airport sees around 800 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from SGN are Hanoi, Da Nang, Bangkok, Seoul, and Taipei.
- Hub Status: Ho Chi Minh Tan Son Nhat Airport is a hub for Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Jetstar Pacific.
Airport History
Ho Chi Minh Tan Son Nhat Airport, located in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, has a rich history dating back to the 1930s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1930s - The French colonial government built the airport, originally named Tan Son Nhat Airfield, as a military airbase.
- 1950s - The airport was expanded and upgraded with a longer runway to accommodate commercial flights.
- 1975 - The airport was heavily damaged during the Vietnam War and was subsequently repaired and reopened for civilian use.
- 1992 - The airport underwent a major renovation and expansion project to modernize its facilities and increase its capacity.
- 2007 - A new international terminal was opened, making Tan Son Nhat Airport one of the busiest airports in Southeast Asia.
- 2017 - The airport announced plans for a second runway and a new terminal to further increase its capacity and accommodate the growing number of passengers.
Today, Ho Chi Minh City Airport serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights, connecting Vietnam to destinations all over the world.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Tan Son Nhat International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: SGN
- Airport Website
- Phone: +84 28 3848 5383
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Tan Son Nhat International Airport, Truong Son Street, Ward 2, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
About this Page: Please note that while we strive to keep the content on this page current and accurate, we cannot guarantee it due to the ever-changing nature of airports and airlines; for more details about our data and practices, refer to our Trust & Transparency statement. To report any data issues, use our feedback form.
Ho Chi Minh Tan Son Nhat Airport Q&A
Find more help here for your journey through the airport