Phu Cat Airport: The nearest airport to Quy Nhon

If you are planning to visit Quy Nhon, your journey will likely begin at Phu Cat Airport. With modern facilities and easy transfers to the district center, it is the best starting point for your trip.

1. Key information about Phu Cat Airport

1.1. Location

Phu Cat Airport (IATA code: UIH) is about 30-35 km away from the center of Quy Nhon. From the airport, you can reach Quy Nhon in about 40 minutes by taxi or bus.

Before July 2025, Phu Cat Airport was part of Binh Dinh Province. After the administrative merger, it is now located in Gia Lai Province. The locals still call it Quy Nhon Airport or Binh Dinh Airport for easier recognition.

This is a level 4D airport under ICAO standards, serving both civil and military operations. With its strategic position in south-central Vietnam, the airport plays a key role in connecting Gia Lai Province with major cities across the country.

Phu Cat Airport is Quy Nhon’s nearest airport

1.2. History

Phu Cat Airport was first built in 1966 under the name Go Quanh Airfield. It served as a military base during wartime.

After 1975, the airport came under the management of Vietnam’s Ministry of National Defense. In 1984, the government approved upgrades to allow civil aviation. The first commercial flight took off from Phu Cat Airport in September 1984.

Expansion continued over the years. In 2015, the airport added more parking stands and lighting systems to support night flights. These upgrades increased its capacity and improved passenger service.

In January 2020, Phu Cat welcomed its first international flight by Bamboo Airways, which connected Quy Nhon with Cheongju, South Korea.

1.3. Facilities & services

The facilities of Phu Cat Airport are modern enough for a smooth travel experience.

Runway and taxiway: The airport has one main runway of 3,048 meters long. It can accommodate medium-sized aircraft used on most domestic routes. A parallel taxiway and connecting lanes support efficient aircraft movement.
Passenger terminal: The current terminal covers over 8,000 square meters and can serve up to 600 passengers per peak hour.
- The first floor includes check-in counters, airline ticket desks, baggage claim, security checks, VIP lounge, and basic services.
- The second floor has departure waiting areas, a business-class lounge, and additional passenger services.
Services and amenities: At the terminal, you will find restaurants, souvenir shops, and convenience stores to meet traveler needs.

Quy Nhon Airport, Vietnam has undergone many changes since its early years

>>> More on: Quy Nhon map: Guide to beaches, temples & local highlights

2. Flight routes available at Phu Cat Airport

As of now, the airport only operates domestic flights. There are daily departures from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Cat Airport, operated by Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Bamboo Airways. Flights from Hanoi take about 1 hour 30 minutes to get to Phu Cat, while those from Ho Chi Minh City take about 1 hour 5 minutes. For other cities, there are connecting flights with a layover either in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.

>>> Explore: Da Nang to Quy Nhon: A complete transportation guide

3. How to transfer between Phu Cat Airport and Quy Nhon?

You have several options to get from Phu Cat Airport to Quy Nhon, with the journey taking around 40 minutes:

By taxi: This is the most convenient option. You can easily find taxis at the arrival hall, with reliable companies such as Mai Linh and Vinasun. If you prefer booking on your phone, ride-hailing mobile apps like Xanh SM are also available.
By bus: This electric bus service operates 36 trips daily from 5:10 AM to 9 PM.
By Quy Nhon Airport shuttle bus: These shuttle buses link the airport with central Quy Nhon. You can book seats in advance or buy tickets directly at the airport. The ride is comfortable and usually cheaper than a taxi.

You can get to Quy Nhon from the airport with Xanh SM

4. Famous attractions near Phu Cat Airport

From Phu Cat Airport, you can reach several attractions:

Thien Hung Pagoda (8.4 km away): This is one of the most famous pagodas in the region, with a 12-floor bell tower and traditional curved roofs. Walking through its peaceful courtyards feels like stepping into a grand historical film set.
Duong Long Cham Temple (13.5 km away): Known as the tallest brick tower in Southeast Asia, this Cham relic impresses with its massive scale. Intricate carvings on stone blocks make it a must-see for history and architecture lovers.
Banh It Cham Temple (16.5 km away): This thousand-year-old temple is the only Vietnamese site featured in the book 1001 Buildings You Must See Before You Die. Its elegant Cham architecture creates an unforgettable experience.
Eo Gio (32.9 km away): Eo Gio is famous for its dramatic cliffs curving around the turquoise sea. It is one of the most photographed spots in Quy Nhon.
Ky Co Beach (36.6 km away): With mountains on three sides, Ky Co Beach is often called the "Maldives of Vietnam." The best time to visit it is from April to September, when the sea is calm.
Hon Kho Beach (41.1 km away): This untouched island has rocky hills and pristine sands. It is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and even spotting sea turtles nesting at night.

Many must-see attractions are located close to Phu Cat Airport, Vietnam

>>> Check out: 15 things to do in Quy Nhon you shouldn’t miss on your trip

5. Notes for first-time passengers to Phu Cat Airport

To make your trip smooth from start to finish, keep these points in mind:

Arrival time: Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours. This gives you enough time for check-in and boarding.
Baggage rules: Check your airline’s baggage policy carefully. Each carrier has different limits on size, weight, and number of items allowed.
Travel documents: Bring your ID card or passport for check-in. Children need a birth certificate or ID card if available.
Medication: Carry essential medicines in your hand luggage with a doctor’s prescription.
Currency: If you need foreign currency, exchange it at banks or reliable money changers before arriving at the airport. Rates at the airport are usually less favorable.

FAQs about Phu Cat Airport

Does Quy Nhon have an airport?

Yes. Quy Nhon is served by Phu Cat Airport, located about 30-35 km away.

How many flights per day are there from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Cat Airport?

Flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Cat Airport are frequent. Vietnam Airlines operates around 4 flights daily, Vietjet offers 2-3 flights, and Bamboo Airways provides 1-2 flights.

Are there any shuttle buses available at Quy Nhon Airport?

Yes, there are shuttle buses available at Quy Nhon Airport. You can book with local companies such as Halo Quy Nhon or Quy Nhon Travel.

Which airlines offer flights from Singapore to Phu Cat Airport?

Airlines such as Scoot, Vietjet Air, and Vietnam Airlines operate flights from Singapore to Ho Chi Minh City. After the layover, you can continue with Vietjet Air, Bamboo Airways, or Vietnam Airlines to reach Phu Cat Airport.

Phu Cat Airport, Vietnam offers easy access to Quy Nhon

Phu Cat Airport makes reaching Quy Nhon easy with frequent flights and convenient transfers. From here, you can explore the beaches and cultural sites that make Quy Nhon a rising tourist destination.

If you have more time for Vietnam travel, you can also plan visits to Ha Long, Hoi An, Nha Trang, or Phu Quoc. Each destination offers unique experiences that highlight the country’s beauty. For a comfortable stay, you can choose the hotels and resorts of Vinpearl. With modern facilities, beachfront views, and professional services, they provide an ideal setting for relaxation.

To add more excitement, you can spend a day at the entertainment complexes of VinWonders and enjoy a mix of fun and adventure.