Phu Cat Airport (UIH) is the main gateway to the coastal city of Quy Nhon in Binh Dinh Province, Vietnam. Located approximately 35 kilometers northwest of the city center, the airport serves as a vital link for tourists wanting to explore the region’s stunning beaches and historic Cham towers. Originally built as a military airbase in 1966, it has grown into a modern facility with a new passenger terminal that opened in 2018. With its peaceful atmosphere and helpful staff, Phu Cat Airport provides a welcoming start to any vacation in the "martial arts land" of Vietnam.
Airport History and Structure
Phu Cat Airport was originally built in 1966 for military use and was known as Go Quanh Airfield. It officially began serving civilian flights in 1984. To handle the growing number of tourists, a beautiful new terminal was opened in May 2018. The airport consists of one main passenger terminal with two floors:
1st Floor: This floor is for Arrivals and Check-in. When you enter the airport to depart, you will find the check-in counters and ticket desks here. When you arrive by plane, you will come to this floor to collect your bags at the baggage carousels and exit the building.
2nd Floor: This floor is the Departure area. After you pass through security, you will wait here for your flight. This floor features comfortable boarding gates, a business class lounge, and various shops.
Commonly Used Airport Services
Even though it is smaller than the airports in Hanoi or Saigon, Phu Cat offers all the essentials you need for a comfortable trip:
- Free Wi-Fi: The airport provides free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. Just look for the "Phu Cat Airport" network on your phone.
- SIM Cards & Currency Exchange: Small kiosks are located near the baggage claim on the Ground Floor where you can buy local SIM cards or exchange major currencies like USD or EUR.
- Bank & ATM: You can find ATMs from major Vietnamese banks outside the Arrival Hall to withdraw local cash (VND) for your transport.
- Baggage Service: Free luggage trolleys are available in both the Departure and Arrival areas.
- Food & Shopping: There are several cafes, including Highlands Coffee, and souvenir shops selling local Binh Dinh specialties like bird's nest and dried seafood.
Pro-Traveler Experience Tips
- Book Your Taxi in Advance: Because the airport is 35km from the city, booking a private car or checking the bus schedule beforehand can save you money compared to a random taxi.- While some shops accept cards, many small stalls and taxis prefer Vietnamese Dong (VND). It is a good idea to withdraw cash at the airport ATM.
- Check Your Terminal: Most flights are domestic (T1), but double-check your ticket if you are on an international charter flight (T2).
- Take a Photo at the Gate: The airport entrance gate is famous among local tourists as a great "check-in" photo spot!
- Bring a Jacket: The air conditioning in the waiting lounges can sometimes be quite cold, so keep a light sweater in your carry-on.</p>
Reviews of Quy Nhon Airport (Phu Cat airport) - UIH Transfer Service