Cat Bi International Airport

Overview

Cat Bi International Airport (HPH) serves Hai Phong, a major port city in northern Vietnam, and the surrounding Red River Delta region. As the country’s third busiest airport, it offers both domestic and limited international flights, providing an alternative to Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport for passengers in the eastern part of the region. The airport is situated about 7 kilometres from Hai Phong city centre, making it convenient for travellers heading to the city or the nearby UNESCO World Heritage site of Ha Long Bay.

Amenities

Cat Bi International Airport provides a range of services to accommodate passenger needs. The terminal is equipped with wheelchair-accessible facilities, including a car park, entrance, and toilets, ensuring ease of movement for travellers with reduced mobility. Gender-neutral toilets and a changing table are available, and the airport is designated as LGBTQ+ friendly and a transgender safe space. Baggage storage is offered on-site for those who wish to explore the area without luggage. A paid parking lot is located adjacent to the terminal, with spaces for short-term and long-term stays. Additional on-site services include information counters and basic retail options, though the selection is limited compared to larger international hubs. Travellers should plan accordingly for dining and shopping needs, as the airport’s commercial offerings are modest.

Hours and Peak Times

Cat Bi International Airport does not operate 24 hours a day; it is open for flight operations during specific hours, with the busiest periods falling around 9 pm and 10 pm. These evening peaks align with the schedule of several domestic flights to Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang, as well as international services to destinations such as Bangkok and Seoul. Passengers flying later in the evening should arrive well ahead of their departure time to allow for check-in and security processing, as queues can lengthen during these hours. The airport may be closed or have limited services outside of flight times, so travellers with early morning or late-night arrivals should confirm their flight’s exact timing and plan transport accordingly.

Accessibility

The airport is designed to be accessible to all passengers. Wheelchair-accessible features include a designated car park with reserved spaces, a barrier-free entrance, and accessible toilets throughout the terminal. Gender-neutral and wheelchair-accessible toilets are clearly marked. The airport is committed to providing a safe environment for LGBTQ+ travellers and transgender individuals. For passengers needing assistance, it is advisable to coordinate with their airline or the airport’s customer service in advance. The terminal layout is straightforward, with signage in Vietnamese and English, making navigation relatively easy.

Contact Information

• Website: https://www.vietnamairport.vn/catbiairport/
• Phone: +84 969 279 292

For enquiries about flight schedules, lost and found, or accessibility services, passengers can contact the airport directly via phone or the official website. The website provides up-to-date information on flight status, parking, and transport options.

Practical Tips

• Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights, especially during the peak evening hours.
• Use the paid parking lot if driving; rates are posted at the entrance.
• Take advantage of baggage storage for short trips—rates are typically calculated per item per day.
• The airport’s location makes it a good starting point for visiting Hai Phong’s attractions or catching a bus to Ha Long Bay (about 2 hours by road).
• Taxis and ride-hailing services are available outside the terminal; agree on a fare or use a metered service.

Cat Bi International Airport, while compact, efficiently serves the travel needs of northern Vietnam’s coastal region. Its focus on accessibility and passenger comfort, combined with its strategic location, makes it a practical choice for both business and leisure travellers.