1. Introduction to Tho Xuan Airport
1.1. Strategic location and significance of Tho Xuan Airport
Located in Sao Vang commune, Thanh Hoa province, Tho Xuan Airport boasts a favorable geographical position, 39-45 km west of Thanh Hoa city center. From here, tourists can easily connect to vital transportation routes, conveniently traveling to the North Central provinces such as Ninh Binh, Nghe An via modern national highway systems.
Tho Xuan Airport plays an important connecting role, not only serving the travel needs of local residents but also contributing to promoting trade and economic development for the North Central region as international integration deepens. With a vision towards 2030-2050, this airport is expected to become a backup international airport for Noi Bai, bringing opportunities to attract foreign investment and enhance Thanh Hoa's position on the regional tourism map.
Tho Xuan Airport plays an important role for Thanh Hoa province. (Source: ACV)
1.2. History of formation and development of Tho Xuan Airport
Tho Xuan Airport originated as the Sao Vang military airport, built in 1965, primarily serving defense purposes with basic infrastructure. In 2013, after the first civilian flight from Ho Chi Minh City landed at Tho Xuan Airport, it officially began its period of serving both military and civilian purposes.
Since then, the number of passengers passing through Tho Xuan Airport has continuously exceeded the initial design capacity of 1.2 million passengers per year. This development not only promotes the transport of goods and passengers but also strongly supports the economic restructuring of Thanh Hoa province and neighboring provinces such as Ninh Binh and Nghe An. This is a solid foundation for Tho Xuan Airport to aim for the goal of becoming an international airport in the future.
2. Infrastructure information and new planning of Tho Xuan Airport 2025
2.1. Current facilities and capacity
Currently, Tho Xuan Airport possesses international standard infrastructure with a main runway 3,200 m long and 50 m wide, capable of operating wide-body aircraft such as Airbus A320, A321, and equivalent Boeing types, ensuring safety for every flight.
Tho Xuan Airport possesses runways meeting international standards. (Source: VOV)
The apron area is reasonably arranged, with many parking positions, full lighting systems, and continuous security surveillance. The passenger terminal is 1,150 m², serving a maximum of over 1 million passengers per year, integrating sufficient check-in areas, security screening, waiting lounges, and baggage claim areas. The airy, modern design provides a pleasant experience for all passengers.
Additionally, Tho Xuan Airport is equipped with free wifi, commercial areas, dining services, and customer support counters ready for continuous service. Thanks to this, the space here always provides convenience, meeting all passenger needs.
2.2. Expansion Plan to 2050 – Aiming to become a backup international airport for Noi Bai
From 2021 to 2030, Tho Xuan Airport will be invested in for expansion with the construction of a second runway parallel to the existing system. Capacity will be increased to 5 million passengers per year, along with a cargo handling capacity of 27,000 tons per year. The number of aircraft parking positions will increase from 3 to 16, better meeting the growing travel demand.
Notably, a large-scale T2 terminal is about to be constructed; concurrently, the T1 terminal will be comprehensively renovated and modernized. A modern air logistics center will also be added, effectively supporting international cargo transportation.
Towards 2050, the civil operation area at Tho Xuan Airport is expected to reach 494.43 ha, with the military area being 379 ha. At that time, the service capacity can reach a maximum of 20 million passengers per year. Here, a "aéroport city" model will be formed with a diverse service ecosystem, becoming a strong backup port for Noi Bai and an attractive destination for domestic and foreign investment.
2.3. Amenities and Services for Passengers at Tho Xuan Airport
At Tho Xuan Airport, the utility system meets all customer needs: from diverse food and beverage counters, spacious waiting areas, oversized baggage support services, to free wifi covering all areas.
Transportation services are organized effectively with taxis, contract cars, buses, and convenient electronic ticketing counters. The support staff of Tho Xuan Airport are always on duty to advise and assist all customers 24 hours a day.
For a convenient experience, it is recommended to book tickets online before the flight to control ticket prices and manage time proactively, prioritize using official taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps. Additionally, always pay attention to checking luggage, carefully preserve personal belongings, especially when passenger volume increases during travel seasons.
3. Flight Schedule, Operating Airlines, and Ticket Prices at Tho Xuan Airport
3.1. Current Routes and Flight Frequency
The most heavily exploited key route at Tho Xuan Airport is Tho Xuan - Ho Chi Minh City, with a frequency of about 7 flights/day. During peak periods, the number of flights will be increased to serve the soaring travel demand. Additionally, routes to Buon Ma Thuot, Da Lat, Nha Trang are also operated regularly.
The daily flight schedule is arranged evenly across morning, noon, and evening slots, helping passengers proactively choose times that suit their personal plans. During special occasions like holidays or travel seasons, the flight schedule will be adjusted or increased depending on actual demand. Therefore, passengers should regularly update information on the airlines' websites or the official page of Tho Xuan Airport.
3.2. Airlines Operating at Tho Xuan Airport in 2025
Vietnam Airlines was the first airline to operate at Tho Xuan Airport with quality service and many promotions. Passengers can enjoy group fares, flexible procedures, along with professional cabin crew.
Vietjet Air stands out with its dynamic image, affordable fares, frequent promotions, and convenient online check-in services. This is a choice favored by many young passengers.
Vietjet Air offers many flights at reasonable prices with attractive promotions. (Source: Collected)
Bamboo Airways focuses on developing premium services at reasonable prices, flexible ticket đổi/return policies, generous checked baggage allowance, and a diverse in-flight menu. Each airline has its own baggage regulations; therefore, when booking tickets, passengers should carefully read the terms and conditions to manage costs proactively.
3.3. Reference Ticket Prices and Tips for Finding Cheap Tickets at Tho Xuan Airport
Flight ticket prices from Tho Xuan Airport vary depending on the airline, booking time, and route, as each airline has different pricing policies. Tickets will also be higher during peak hours or seasons, while long-haul routes are usually more expensive than short-haul ones. Additionally, various taxes, airport fees, and accompanying services directly affect the final ticket price that passengers have to pay.
To find cheap tickets from Tho Xuan Airport, you should book 2–3 weeks in advance, especially during off-peak months. Regularly follow promotional programs directly on the airline's website. Prioritize flying on weekdays and avoid weekends or holidays to save costs. Furthermore, if you don't need to check in baggage, you should limit the luggage you carry to avoid unnecessary additional fees.
4. Detailed Guide to Traveling to and from Tho Xuan Airport
4.1. How to Travel from Thanh Hoa City and Surrounding Areas to Tho Xuan Airport
Typically, taxis are a popular choice from Thanh Hoa city center to Tho Xuan Airport, with a travel time of about 60 - 90 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Reference taxi fares are 400,000 - 500,000 VND per trip, which may be higher during peak hours or at night.
Bus route number 19 Thanh Hoa - Tho Xuan offers a cost-saving solution with prices ranging from only 7,000 - 27,000 VND per trip. Due to the limited number of trips and longer travel time, this option is suitable when you have ample time and want to experience local public transport.
Shuttle services from hotels or travel agencies are also highly regarded, saving time and ensuring your schedule. Some major hotels even offer free or discounted shuttle services for their guests. If you are using your own car, Tho Xuan Airport has safe parking facilities with reasonable fees, suitable for those who want to be independent.
4.2. Traveling from Tho Xuan Airport to the City Center and Notable Tourist Attractions
From Tho Xuan Airport, you have many options to travel to Thanh Hoa's famous tourist destinations. Traveling to Sam Son by taxi takes about 60 – 80 minutes, making it very convenient to immediately enjoy the sea air after your flight. If you want to explore the mountains and forests, Pu Luong, often called Thanh Hoa's 'miniature Sapa', is only about a 2 – 2.5 hour drive from the airport, with a beautiful mountain route, promising to bring you an exciting experience.
Terraced fields stretching far, immensely green in Pu Luong. (Source: VnExpress)
Cam Luong Fish Stream is about 1.5 - 2 hours from the airport, an ideal destination for nature lovers. You can share a car to save costs or use ride-hailing apps to choose suitable prices. It is advisable to book a car in advance by phone to proactively manage your itinerary, especially during peak tourist seasons.
4.3. Experience of parking motorcycles/cars at Tho Xuan Airport
The parking area of Tho Xuan Airport is located right next to the terminal, very convenient for passengers entering and exiting. The security system with surveillance cameras and a 24/7 security team ensures the safety of vehicles.
Current parking fees range from 5,000 - 10,000 VND/day for motorcycles, and 30,000 - 50,000 VND/day for cars, depending on the type and location. Compared to airports in the region, this is a reasonable fee, allowing passengers to feel secure leaving their vehicles throughout their trip.
When parking, you should choose a memorable spot near the entrance/exit for easy retrieval after your flight and keep your parking ticket safe, avoiding the disclosure of personal information. For valuable items, it is best to keep them in a portable bag rather than in the car to minimize risks. The parking staff are always ready to assist customers when needed.
5. Attractive experiences and tourist destinations connected via Tho Xuan Airport
5.1. Suggested 2D1N itinerary for exploring Thanh Hoa from Tho Xuan Airport
Upon arrival at Tho Xuan Airport in the morning, visitors can head straight to Sam Son to enjoy the sea air and relax in the clear blue waters. Lunch here with fresh seafood dishes such as tamarind-stir-fried crab, grilled shrimp, and jellyfish fish cake will offer an unforgettable culinary experience. In the afternoon, you can visit the famous historical site of Ho Citadel or explore Vom Market to experience the unique architecture and bustling atmosphere characteristic of this land.
On the second morning, the journey continues to Pu Luong, admiring the majestic beauty of the mountains and forests, the vast terraced fields, and the Thai ethnic villages with their traditional stilt houses. This is also an ideal spot for unique check-in photos. Additionally, visitors can choose to visit Cam Luong Fish Stream, enjoying the fresh and unique natural scenery.
At the end of the trip, you should spend time returning to Thanh Hoa city to shop for local specialties as gifts such as nem chua (fermented pork roll), banh gai (thorn cake), and Sam Son pepper salt. This itinerary is suitable for short exploration trips, harmoniously combining relaxation, culture, cuisine, and nature.
5.2. Combining entertainment and leisure experiences in Thanh Hoa
Sun World Sam Son is a vibrant entertainment destination in Thanh Hoa, offering a modern experience combined with beautiful coastal nature. The amusement park offers a variety of exciting games suitable for all ages, and a rich culinary area will help visitors relax and fully enjoy their time.
Combine fun and entertainment experiences at Sun World Sam Son. (Source: Collected)
With a convenient location near Tho Xuan airport, passengers can easily connect flights with a resort experience in the Sun World ecosystem without losing much travel time. This place promises to be an ideal stopover for families, groups of friends, or those who want to combine beach tourism with high-quality entertainment.
6. Experience using services at Tho Xuan airport and important notes for 2025
6.1. Peak hours, check-in procedures, and security when flying at Tho Xuan
Peak hours at Tho Xuan airport are concentrated in the morning from 6:00 to 8:00 and in the evening from 17:00 to 19:00, especially lively during holidays and Tet. To facilitate check-in procedures and avoid missing the flight, you should arrive 90 to 120 minutes before departure time, especially during peak periods.
Everyone should check in early to have enough time for procedures. (Source: ACV)
Air travelers can check in online via the airline's website or app, or go directly to the check-in counter at the terminal. Checking in online will save time and allow you to choose a suitable seat. After this step, passengers proceed to the security check area for carry-on baggage screening and verification of identification documents according to regulations.
Note that prohibited items should not be brought onto the plane, such as liquids over 100ml, high-capacity power banks, sharp objects... You should prepare necessary documents, organize luggage neatly, and regularly check flight status on the airline's app or website to promptly update changes in departure time or boarding gate.
6.2. Notes on booking tickets, preparing documents, and luggage at Tho Xuan Airport
When flying from Tho Xuan Airport, identification documents are the top priority. Passengers need to bring a valid ID card, citizen identification card, VNeID level 2 identification, passport for international flights, and flight ticket (electronic or paper). It is best to store both the electronic ticket screen and a printed copy in easily accessible places in case the device runs out of battery or loses connection.
Note that money, valuables, or important documents should not be placed in checked baggage. These items should be carried in your hand luggage for safety. When checking in luggage, lock it carefully and clearly write your name and phone number on the outside for convenience in case of need.
Tho Xuan Airport support staff are available at all times, ready to assist with lost luggage, flight delays, or other requests. If you encounter any issues, remain calm and communicate with the staff for a quick and reasonable resolution.
7. Update contact information, hotline numbers, and useful resources for Tho Xuan Airport
7.1. Official contact information for Tho Xuan Airport
Tho Xuan Airport operates a 24/7 support channel with the hotline number 0825.968.866 to answer inquiries about flight schedules, services, procedures, or special requests for domestic and international customers. Experienced operators are available to serve customers in Vietnamese and English as needed.
Staff of Tho Xuan airport are always ready to support customers 24/7. (Source: Collected)
The website vietnamairport.vn/thoxuanairport always quickly updates information about flight schedules, ticket prices, services, and the latest promotions.
7.2. Support channels for flight schedules, ticket prices, and quick feedback
The official Facebook fanpages of Tho Xuan airport, Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Bamboo Airways are the fastest sources of information about flight schedules, discount programs, and important announcements. These pages are updated regularly, helping passengers not miss attractive promotions or unexpected flight schedule changes.
The airlines' hotlines operate continuously, supporting the resolution of all related issues such as ticket changes, cancellations, or emergency assistance at the airport: Vietnam Airlines (1900 1100), Vietjet Air (1900 1886), Bamboo Airways (1900 1166). The call centers are well-organized, can serve bilingually, helping passengers be more proactive when encountering unexpected situations.
Tho Xuan airport is increasingly affirming its role as an important air gateway for the North Central region, with comprehensive services and a long-term development vision until 2050. From a military airport, this place has continuously modernized, expanded its capacity, and connected Thanh Hoa with major cities across the country. With international standard infrastructure and plans to expand international routes, Tho Xuan airport is ready to become a strategic transit point, offering a convenient flying experience and contributing to the development of regional tourism and economy.
