Hanoi Noi Bai Airport Terminals Guide (HAN)

Information compiled by David Enrich, aviation and airport guide expert since 1999.

Hanoi Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) is the main gateway to northern Vietnam and one of the busiest airports in the country. Located around 30 km from Hanoi city centre, it has experienced significant growth in recent decades due to increasing tourism and economic development.

The airport originally opened for military use but was later expanded for civilian operations. The most important milestone came in 2015 with the inauguration of Terminal 2, a modern international terminal that significantly improved capacity and passenger experience.

Tip: Always check your terminal in advance — Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 are several kilometers apart.

Terminal Overview

Hanoi Airport operates with two main terminals:

Terminal 1 (T1): Domestic flights
Terminal 2 (T2): International flights

Terminal 1 – Domestic Terminal

Terminal 1 handles all domestic flights within Vietnam and has been expanded and renovated over time to accommodate growing traffic.

Layout & Levels:

Ground level: Arrivals and baggage claim
Upper levels: Departures, check-in counters and security
Gate areas: Located after security with basic services

The terminal is functional but simpler compared to Terminal 2, offering essential services such as cafés, shops and waiting areas.

Tip: Arrive early at Terminal 1, as queues can be less organized during peak domestic travel times.

Terminal 2 – International Terminal

Terminal 2 is a modern and spacious facility designed for international travel. It features contemporary architecture, better passenger flow and a wider range of services.

Layout & Levels:

Ground floor: Arrivals and immigration
Second level: Check-in and departures
Upper levels: Lounges, restaurants and services

The terminal includes duty-free shops, lounges, restaurants and improved seating areas, providing a more comfortable experience.

Tip: Walking distances in Terminal 2 can be longer — check your gate early.

Facilities & Services

Free Wi-Fi throughout both terminals
ATMs and currency exchange services
Luggage storage (Terminal 2)
Restaurants, cafés and duty-free shops
Charging stations and seating areas

Family & PRM Services

Baby care rooms and children’s play areas
Wheelchair assistance and accessible facilities
Priority boarding and support services
Accessible toilets and elevators

Tip: Request PRM assistance at least 48 hours before your flight.

Security & Baggage Control

Security procedures are standard, including screening of liquids and electronic devices. Passport control is required for international flights.

Baggage claim areas are located on the arrivals level in both terminals.

Tip: Security queues can be long during early morning and evening departures.

Check-in & Boarding

Check-in counters are located in the departures hall of each terminal. Self check-in kiosks are limited, so most passengers use traditional counters.

Boarding usually begins 30–45 minutes before departure.

Tip: Keep your boarding pass ready at all times — checks are frequent.

Lost & Found

Lost property services are available at information desks in both terminals.

Most Popular Flights from HAN

Destination	Duration	Airlines
Ho Chi Minh City	2h	Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air
Bangkok	1h 50m	Thai Airways, VietJet
Singapore	3h 30m	Singapore Airlines, Scoot
Seoul	4h 30m	Korean Air, Asiana
Tokyo	5h	ANA, Vietnam Airlines

Estimated Walking & Waiting Times

Process	Estimated Time
Check-in	10–30 min
Security	15–30 min
Immigration (T2)	20–40 min
Gate walking time	5–15 min

Transfer between terminals

Both terminals are connected by a free shuttle bus which runs every 10-15 minutes, from 06:00 am to 01:00 am.

Stops:

- Terminal 1: Arrivals Hall, first level, Hall A.
- Terminal 2: Arrivals Hall, first level, column 18.