1. Overview of Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport
Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport is located at a key position in the city. (Source: Collected)
Located at a key position in the Northern Coastal region, Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport (IATA: HPH) has long been an important transportation gateway, connecting the Port City with numerous domestic and international destinations. Entering 2025, the airport officially enters a phase of expansion and modernization, aiming to improve service quality and provide a more convenient experience for passengers.
1.1. Geographical location and transportation to the city center
Situated in Dang Lam ward, Hai An district, Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport boasts a strategic location, only about 8 km from Hai Phong Opera House, allowing tourists to easily travel to the city center within 15–20 minutes.
By 2025, the transportation system connecting from the airport will become more diverse and convenient. Taxi and ride-hailing services operate 24/7, with reference prices from 120,000–180,000 VND for the journey to the city center. Additionally, bus routes 18B, 18E, and 23 operate from 5 AM to 9 PM, with a frequency of 15–20 minutes per trip, offering a cost-effective option for many passengers.
Furthermore, many large hotels and resorts offer comprehensive airport pick-up and drop-off services, combined with tour packages, providing maximum convenience. Ample parking space in front of the main terminal and long-term parking services also flexibly meet the needs of all visitors, from short business trips to long leisure journeys.
1.2. Development history and key milestones
Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport was established during the French colonial period as a strategic air base. After 1975, the airport transitioned to serving civilian flights, gradually affirming its important position in Vietnam's aviation system.
2016 marked a significant advancement when the airport was upgraded to meet ICAO Category 4E international standards, with a runway of 3,050 m and a capacity of 2 million passengers per year, making Cat Bi one of the leading modern airports in the North.
The period 2024–2025 witnesses a remarkable transformation with the construction of a new T2 terminal, increasing the service capacity to 5 million passengers/year and expanding the apron to 28 aircraft parking positions. These plans are gradually turning Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport into a key aviation and logistics hub for the Northern region.
1.3. Economic and tourism significance
Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport plays a pivotal role as the gateway welcoming a large number of international visitors to famous tourist destinations such as Cat Ba, Do Son, and Ha Long. This convenient location not only promotes tourism development in the Northern Coastal region but also contributes to increasing the economic growth rate of the entire region.
Alongside tourism development, Cat Bi Airport is focusing on expanding air logistics, becoming a key commercial connection point with increasingly complete cargo terminal infrastructure and synchronized services. These projects open up opportunities for investment and trade growth, helping Hai Phong attract domestic and international capital.
Moreover, the strong development of air tourism makes Cat Bi Airport an ideal transit hub for tourists to island and beach destinations. Thanks to this advantage, the tourism potential of Hai Phong and Quang Ninh is fully exploited, contributing to promoting the destination's image to the international market.
2. Infrastructure and amenities at Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport
Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport has modern infrastructure. (Source: Collection)
In early 2025, Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport stands out with its modern infrastructure and comprehensive utility services. The passenger terminal, which became operational in 2016, covers an area of over 15,000 m² with a smart design, clearly separating departure and arrival areas on two separate floors, making passengers' journeys more convenient.
2.1. International and Domestic Terminals – Space, Check-in Counters, Service Quality
The main lobby area of Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport is notable for its modern architecture and optimal use of natural light, creating a spacious and pleasant atmosphere for passengers. Check-in counters are arranged separately for each airline, ensuring quick and smooth check-in processes, even during peak hours.
The waiting area is equipped with comfortable ergonomic seating, accompanied by electronic screens continuously updating flight information. Multilingual signage helps both domestic and international passengers navigate easily, providing a convenient and friendly experience.
When the T2 terminal is completed, a modern jet bridge system will be added, enhancing service capacity and quality, clearly demonstrating the goal of Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport achieving international standards for passenger services.
2.2. Transportation Connectivity – Taxis, Buses, Shuttle Services
From Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport, visitors can easily travel to the city center or nearby tourist attractions thanks to a diverse and modern transportation system. Options such as taxis, buses, or shuttle services are conveniently arranged, making journeys smooth and time-saving.
The taxi and ride-sharing pick-up area is located right outside the terminal with clear signage, allowing guests to easily choose their mode of transport. Passengers can use popular ride-hailing apps or contact taxi companies directly to arrange their routes.
The bus system at Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport serves routes 18B, 18E, and 23, with fares ranging from 10,000 – 12,000 VNĐ per trip. Schedules and departure times are updated on electronic screens within the terminal, allowing passengers to quickly and conveniently check information.
Additionally, many contract car services and hotel/resort transfers have been implemented, which can be booked directly via hotline or reputable travel agencies. The spacious parking lot in front of the terminal building, along with long-term parking services, offers maximum convenience for passengers using personal vehicles.
2.3. Outstanding Amenities for Tourists
Not only is it the largest aviation hub in the Northern coastal region, but Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport also impresses with its modern amenity system and friendly services. From dining and shopping areas to premium lounges, every detail has been invested in to provide the most comfortable and convenient experience for travelers on their journey.
Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport provides a 24/7 consultation hotline at (0225) 3976 507, always ready to answer questions about flight tickets, baggage, and special services. The professional staff, proficient in multiple languages, effectively assists both international and domestic guests.
The entire terminal is equipped with free, stable Wi-Fi, allowing passengers to stay connected. VIP lounges with modern amenities cater to business travelers and those seeking the highest level of service.
The dining area offers a variety of options from restaurants, cafes to fast-food outlets, with a rich menu ranging from traditional Vietnamese dishes to international cuisine. Souvenir shops sell characteristic Hai Phong products, making them ideal spots for gifts.
ATMs and currency exchange counters are conveniently located within the terminal, especially useful for international visitors. In early 2025, the airport will expand its currency exchange points, integrate international POS systems, and support English and Chinese, along with a tourism consultation desk right at the terminal, providing maximum convenience during the peak season.
3. List of Routes and Operating Airlines at Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport 2025
Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport has a rich domestic flight network. (Source: Collected)
The airport currently welcomes many major airlines, creating a healthy competitive environment, helping travelers easily choose flights that suit their budget and needs. From premium services to budget flights, passengers can experience convenient, safe, and efficient journeys.
3.1. Important Domestic and International Routes
With its strategic location in the center of the Northern Coastal region, Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport increasingly affirms its role as an important aviation gateway for the region. The domestic and international route system is continuously expanding, helping to connect Hai Phong with major economic and tourist centers both domestically and internationally.
Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport boasts a rich domestic flight network, directly connecting to key cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Da Lat, Can Tho, and Phu Quoc. Flight frequencies are flexible, ranging from 2 to 12 flights per day depending on the route, offering many convenient flight time options for passengers.
Regarding international routes, the connections to Incheon (Seoul) and Don Mueang (Bangkok) always attract a large number of tourists. In 2025, the airport is expected to expand routes to Hong Kong, Guangzhou, and Macau, creating new international travel opportunities for visitors.
In addition, the airport continues to operate charter flights, especially targeting Southeast Asian destinations such as Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, in coordination with reputable travel agencies to develop all-inclusive tour packages, providing maximum convenience for passengers.
3.2. Airlines Operating at Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport
Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport is currently an important transit point for many domestic and international airlines, offering a rich and flexible route network. Travelers can easily choose between reputable domestic airlines and well-known international carriers for convenient travel to destinations in the region and around the world.
Vietnam Airlines holds a leading position on major routes with 4-5 star quality service, highly rated by passengers for stability, safety, and extensive coverage across the country.
VietJet Air and Bamboo Airways expand options for passengers with affordable inter-regional routes. VietJet Air stands out on domestic routes and the Hai Phong – Bangkok route, while Bamboo Airways focuses on service quality and travel experience on key routes.
International airlines such as Korean Air, Thai AirAsia, Cathay Pacific, and Jeju Air offer more opportunities for international connections. Korean Air operates a direct route to Seoul, Thai AirAsia serves Hai Phong – Bangkok, while Cathay Pacific is expected to launch the Hong Kong – Hai Phong route, expanding the international network for passengers.
Many passengers highly appreciate the quick procedures, modern automatic check-in, and early bird ticket promotions. The multilingual support system also makes it convenient for international passengers throughout their journey, enhancing their experience when flying from Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport.
4. Useful Tips for Flying Through Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport
Understand the regulations when going to Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport. (Source: Collected)
To have a smooth and comfortable journey when flying through Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport, understanding travel experiences and procedures is essential. Here are useful tips to help you save time, avoid risks, and enjoy your flight more fully in 2025.
The ideal time frame for check-in at Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport usually falls between 06:00 – 08:00 or 11:00 – 15:00, when the number of passengers is lower, making the journey quick and convenient. This is a suitable choice for families with young children or large groups who want to complete procedures smoothly.
Passengers should arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure for domestic flights, and add an extra 30 minutes for international flights to prepare all necessary documents.
In addition, online check-in service is an effective time-saving solution. You just need to save or print the QR code of your boarding pass and go directly to the security check area, avoiding long queues at the check-in counter.
Before each flight, accurately checking personal information on the ticket and identification is an important step, especially for international flights departing from Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport.
For international passengers, passports must be valid for at least 6 months. Additionally, it is advisable to save copies of your e-ticket, vaccination certificate, and transit visa (if any) on your phone for easy reference when checking in.
Each airline has its own regulations for carry-on and checked baggage, so passengers need to research the limits and potential fees in advance to avoid trouble or unexpected costs at the airport.
Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport is equipped with a high-tech security screening system, which shortens inspection time while ensuring absolute safety. VIP guests and tour groups are prioritized for fast check-in, significantly reducing waiting time.
In 2025, electronic immigration procedures will be applied to certain nationalities, simplifying control processes and saving time for international passengers.
During major holidays, the support hotline and security personnel are increased, ensuring that any arising situations are handled quickly, providing a smooth and professional travel experience for all passengers.
5. Suggested travel itinerary combined from Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport
Travel by Sun World cable car when visiting Cat Ba. (Source: Collection)
Visitors can travel to Cat Ba island by convenient cable car – a modern, convenient means, taking less than 15 minutes from the mainland to the island. The cable car journey offers a panoramic view of Lan Ha Bay and the stunning Cat Ba archipelago from above, promising a memorable experience not to be missed on your trip.
Additionally, after landing at Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport, visitors only need about 40 – 50 minutes by taxi or shuttle bus to reach Got ferry terminal, an ideal departure point for the journey to Cat Ba island. Along the way, you will admire the majestic beauty of the bay, creating an impressive start to your trip.
With a 2-day, 1-night itinerary, the first day can be spent visiting famous beaches like Cat Co, and exploring Lan Ha Bay. In the evening, enjoying fresh seafood by the pristine coast will create an unforgettable impression.
On the second day, the journey can continue with trekking in Cat Ba National Park, exploring its rich ecosystem, fascinating caves, and challenging yourself with mountain climbing, offering a complete nature experience before returning to Hai Phong or continuing your journey to Ha Long.
Cat Bi Hai Phong Airport is increasingly affirming its importance in connecting Hai Phong with domestic and international destinations. With the updated travel schedule for 2025, this place not only optimally meets transportation needs but also contributes to promoting tourism and economic development for the city and surrounding areas. This is definitely an ideal starting point for your new journeys.
