Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) is the main airport that serves Hanoi and many surrounding northern provinces. The airport is about 30km from Hanoi city center, 40 minutes driving to/from Hanoi downtown. Need a transfer from Hanoi Airport Shuttle.
A number of Vietnamese and international airlines operate from Hanoi Noi Bai Airport, including Vietnam Airlines, Pacific Airlines, AirAsia, Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong Airlines, Thai Airways, Lao Airlines and Tiger Airways.
New International Terminal 2 opened at the end of 2014. The new terminal offers 96 check-in counters, ten self-service kiosks, 17 boarding gates and 283 flight information display systems. Domestic flights now operate from Terminal 1. Hanoi airport location maps
Terminal 1 (the old airport): the old airport is now used for domestic flight only. It is connected with E Hall which is a freshly built terminal at the airport. See the maps here.
E Hall (for all domestic flight):
The first floor of the hall is arrival lobby. You can find currency exchange booths, airport taxi services and information booths on this floor.
The second floor has departure gates and check-in areas for domestic flights. Boarding gates from 2-5 is on the far left of the airport and boarding gates from 6-10 is on the far right. In the middle and near the elevator is the border police control door. The custom declaration form has been abandoned for all outbound travellers as of September 2010.
The airport top floor has several restaurants and bars that serve breakfasts, lunches and dinners. The food is decent and inexpensive but do not expect an international selection.
Terminal 2 (new airport – international flight):
The T2 Hall was brought into use in early 2015 and serves all international routes. There are a total of 4 levels: first level being arrival hall, third level being departure hall and the second and fourth level hosting a number of food vendors. As you step down from an international flight, you will be passing through immigration office first – this is where you pick up your visa on arrival. If you already have a visa you can go straight to Customs, have your passport scanned and go to collect your baggage. And go on Hanoi airport shuttle bus transfer to city.
Eating & Drinking
There are cafeterias located on all floors of the terminal building both street side and airside. As with most airports these eateries can be a little expensive and the meals are rather basic. If you are in need of some hearty food you had better eat before you leave Hanoi however if you would like a light meal, cold beer or hot cup of coffee you will find the airport cafes and restaurants quite adequate.
Shopping and Duty Free
There are quite a few souvenir shops, duty free shops and smaller ‘department’ stores within the airport. Prices can be a little steep and you need to be wary about exchange rates as often prices are quoted in VND but charged in US dollars. There is a good selection of regular duty free items including alcohol, perfumes and cosmetics, chocolates and some electronic goods.
