TAN SON NHAT INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT – 2023 TIPS AND INSIGHTS

TÂN SƠN NHẤT INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT: A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE

Nestled within vibrant Ho Chi Minh City, the bustling economic and cultural epicenter of Vietnam, stands the remarkable Tan Son Nhat International Airport. As the nation’s largest and busiest aviation hub, it bridges Vietnam and the world, extending a warm welcome to travelers from every corner.

Whether you’re embarking on a domestic or international flight, having a detailed understanding of the airport’s layout is essential for easy navigation and to avoid any confusion.

Where is Tan Son Nhat International Airport?

Strategically positioned a mere 8 kilometers (approximately 5 miles) to the north of the city center, Tan Son Nhat International Airport offers travelers convenient proximity to the city’s attractions, commercial centers, and cultural landmarks. Whether you’re embarking on a business endeavor or leisurely exploration, the airport’s strategic positioning serves as a convenient springboard for your Vietnamese odyssey.

How big is it?

Tân Sơn Nhất International Airport is divided into the Domestic Terminal T1 and the International Terminal T2, this airport serves as a vital gateway for both domestic and international travellers. 

T1: Domestic Terminal – Exploring in Detail

Referring to the airport layout, the Domestic Terminal T1 spans a total area of 40,948 square meters and consists of two floors: the Ground Floor (GF) and the 1st Floor (1F).

T2: International Terminal – Unveiling the Layout

Turning to the International Terminal T2, which boasts an impressive area of approximately 115,834 square meters – nearly three times the size of the Domestic Terminal T1. According to the airport layout, the International Terminal T2 is structured with four floors: Ground Floor (GF), 1st Floor (1F), 2nd Floor (2F), and 3rd Floor (3F).

Understanding the Layout for International Departures (T2)

Functional areas for international departures are distributed across the four floors:

• 2nd Floor (2F): Check-In and Security Procedures

• 1st Floor (1F): Boarding Gates and Passenger Lounges

• Ground Floor (GF): Additional Boarding Gates

• 3rd Floor (3F): Premium Passenger Services

How long for immigration?

The duration of immigration procedures at Tan Son Nhat International Airport can vary based on several factors. If you have a visa on arrival, the process typically takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour. However, if you don’t have a visa and need to go through the visa application process at the airport, it can take more than 1 hour and 30 minutes.

It’s important to keep these timeframes in mind when planning your arrival at the airport and to allow for sufficient time to complete the immigration procedures, especially if you don’t have a visa in advance. Additionally, factors such as the time of day, the number of arriving passengers, and any unexpected delays can also influence the overall duration of the immigration process.

Arriving passengers at the International Terminal T2 disembark on Level 1 (1F). Upon descent, passengers find themselves in the central area of the 1st Floor. Functional zones on this floor include:

• Visa on Arrival Counter: Serving foreign visitors requiring visas to enter Vietnam.
• Transit and Connecting Flights: Streamlining procedures for passengers with connecting flights.
• Immigration Area: Facilitating the entry process into Vietnam.

After immigration procedures, travelers descend to the Ground Floor. This level hosts baggage claim conveyors, security checkpoints, and exits A1 and A2 for departure.

Where to pick up your luggage?

After concluding the visa application, Tan Son Nhat International Airport’s luggage collection process is straightforward. Exiting the visa application sector, a solitary escalator descent leads to the luggage claim vicinity. 

The proximity of the luggage claim area to the visa application section ensures that you won’t have to travel far to retrieve your belongings. This efficient layout aims to provide travelers with a seamless and hassle-free experience, ensuring a smooth transition from the visa application process to collecting your luggage.

Is the trolley free?

Unlike some other airports where trolley usage might incur a fee, at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, you can use the trolleys without any additional cost. This convenience is part of the airport’s effort to ensure a hassle-free and comfortable experience for travelers.

How to access free wifi?

Accessing the airport’s complimentary Wi-Fi is both simple and convenient, ensuring potent and reliable connectivity. To harness the airport’s Wi-Fi network, adhere to these uncomplicated steps as guided:

• Activate Wi-Fi on your device: Enable Wi-Fi functionality on your smartphone, tablet, or laptop.
• Select the network: From the list of available networks, opt for “Tan Son Nhat Free Wi-Fi” or a similar identifier.
• Launch your browser: Upon connecting to the network, initiate your web browser. The browser will automatically direct you to the Wi-Fi login page.
• Consent to terms and conditions: On the login page, possible terms and conditions acknowledgment might be necessary. Typically, this is a one-time formality.
• Bask in the free Wi-Fi: After acquiescing to the terms, you’ll obtain entry to the free Wi-Fi network, facilitating internet browsing, email checks, and other online tasks.

Tan Son Nhat International Airport ardently endeavors to provide an experience of comfort and convenience, guaranteeing that your entrance and transition processes are as smooth and unproblematic as feasible.

Other Facilities

Tân Sơn Nhất International Airport’s International Terminal T2 is equipped with diverse amenities to ensure an exceptional experience for millions of international passengers annually. These include:

• Currency Exchange: Available on the 2nd Floor of the departure area and the Ground Floor of the arrival area.
• Medical Care: Located on the 2nd Floor of the departure area and the Ground Floor of the arrival area, left side of exit A1.
• Luggage Wrapping Services: Found on the 2nd Floor of the departure area, with counters at entrances D1 and D2.
• Self-Service Bag Drop: Situated opposite check-in island B on the 2nd Floor of the departure area.
• Dining: Cafes and restaurants are spread across the Ground Floor, 2nd Floor, and 3rd Floor.
• Shopping: Stores are located on the Ground Floor, 2nd Floor, and 3rd Floor.
• Premium Lounges:
  • Rose Lounge: 1st Floor, between gates 9 and 15.
  • Lotus Lounge 2: 1st Floor, between gates 17 and 18.
  • Orchid Lounge: 1st Floor, near gate 16.
  • Le Saigonnais (Sasco Business Lounge): 3rd Floor, left side.
  • Lotus Lounge: 3rd Floor, right side.
• Other Services: Phone charging areas, free drinking water, restrooms, smoking areas, shower rooms, children’s play areas, spa facilities, and tax refund counters.

tan son nhat international airport

Check-In Procedures at T2: International Departures

With reference to the T2 international terminal layout, understanding the process of checking in for international flights is crucial:

• Step 1: Approach the check-in counters of your respective airline. Present your booking code, passport, and visa (if required) for flight procedures and baggage check-in.
• Step 2: Proceed to immigration for exit procedures.
• Step 3: Undergo security screening.
• Step 4: Locate your designated boarding gate as indicated on your boarding pass.

Note: Make sure to visit the check-in counter of the airline you are flying with. To identify the correct counter, refer to your flight information displayed on electronic boards at the airport or visit https://tia.vietnamairport.vn. Check-in counters open 180 minutes before departure and close 50 minutes before departure.

Travelling To and From the Airport: Transportation Options

Tân Sơn Nhất International Airport lies approximately 8 kilometers (around 5 miles) from the city center. For seamless transportation between the airport and the city center, consider the following options:

• Taxi: Roughly 60,000 VND. Pick up at Lane D, D1, D2 opposite the domestic terminal exit.
• Airport Shuttle: Approximately 190,000 – 500,000 VND. Pickup at Lane D, D1, D2 opposite the domestic terminal exit.
• Bus: Roughly 6,000 – 40,000 VND. Column 13 – Lane B for the International Terminal, and Columns 18, 19, 20 – Lane B for the Domestic Terminal.

For swift, top-notch transport, contemplate the reputable premium services offered by Saco Travel. In Ho Chi Minh City, Saco Travel offers both standard and premium services, booking your ride is easy through four methods:

• Call the hotline at 0913 57 27 27 
• Fast and Convenient Ticket Booking via E-commerce Platforms such as Klook, KKday, etc. – 24/7 English-Speaking Customer Support. 

Mastering Your Journey at Ho Chi Minh City International Airport

Ho Chi Minh City International Airport, with its extensive facilities and well-designed terminals, guarantees a smooth and convenient travel experience for both domestic and international passengers. Understanding the airport’s layout, services, and transportation options is vital for ensuring a stress-free journey to and from this bustling hub. So, whether you’re departing on an adventure or returning home, Ho Chi Minh City International Airport is ready to welcome you with open arms and a host of modern conveniences.