Lien Khuong Airport to Close for Upgrades in March 2026

In a significant development for travelers and aviation enthusiasts, Lien Khuong Airport in Lam Dong Province is set to undergo major upgrades in March 2026. This decision, approved by the Vietnam Airports Corporation (ACV), aims to enhance the airport's capacity and improve the overall travel experience.

What to Expect from the Upgrade

The renovation project, which will last approximately six months, includes:

• Runway Expansion: The runway will be extended to 3,250 meters in length and 45 meters in width, allowing for larger aircraft and improved safety.
• Modern Facilities: Upgrades to taxiways E1 and E2, along with the construction of a new turnaround area, will enhance operational efficiency.
• Improved Amenities: New drainage systems, aviation lights, and signage will be installed to provide a better experience for passengers and airlines alike.

Enhancing Connectivity

Currently, Lien Khuong Airport serves nearly 2.5 million passengers annually, primarily domestic travelers and tourists from South Korea and Thailand. The upgrades are essential as the airport has shown signs of deterioration despite a significant increase in passenger traffic, with almost 1 million visitors in the first half of 2025 alone.

Strategic Timing for Upgrades

The postponement of the closure to March 2026 was influenced by local government concerns regarding potential disruptions to transportation during peak construction times. Lam Dong Province Chairman Ho Van Muoi emphasized the importance of aligning the upgrades with ongoing infrastructure projects to minimize impact on tourism and the local economy.

Future Prospects: A Gateway to the Central Highlands

By 2030, Lien Khuong Airport is expected to achieve level 4E status, which will allow it to accommodate wide-body aircraft such as the Boeing 787 and Airbus A350. This upgrade is projected to increase annual capacity to 5 million passengers and 20,000 tons of cargo, with plans to extend the runway to 3,600 meters after 2030, ultimately enhancing the airport's capability to serve 7 million passengers per year.

How to Travel to Da Lat During Lien Khuong Airport Renovations

How to Travel to Da Lat During Lien Khuong Airport Renovations

If Lien Khuong Airport is closed for renovations, the best way to get to Da Lat is to fly into a nearby airport like Cam Ranh International Airport, Ho Chi Minh City, or Buon Me Thuot, then travel by road. Alternatively, you can take a train to Nha Trang or Thap Cham and then travel to Da Lat by bus or taxi.

Detailed Options to reach Dalat:

1. Fly to Cam Ranh and then by road:
   • Fly into Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR) in Khanh Hoa Province, about 160 km from Da Lat.
   • From Cam Ranh, take a passenger bus or rent a car to Da Lat, which takes about 3-4 hours.
   • Buses are frequent and cost between VND 150,000 to VND 250,000 (approximately $5.8 to $9.6).
   • The route involves passing through Vo Nguyen Giap Road, Cao Ba Quat Road, Provincial Road 652, Khanh Le Pass, and National Highway 27C.
2. Fly to Ho Chi Minh City and then by road:
   • Fly into Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City.
   • From Ho Chi Minh City, take a bus or rent a car to Da Lat, which takes about 6-8 hours.
   • Buses are available from various companies, with prices ranging from VND 200,000 to VND 400,000 (approximately $8 to $16).
   • The journey offers scenic views as you travel through the Central Highlands.
3. Fly to Buon Me Thuot and then by road:
   • Fly into Buon Me Thuot Airport (BMV), located about 220 km from Da Lat.
   • From Buon Me Thuot, you can take a bus or rent a car to Da Lat, which takes about 4-5 hours.
   • Buses are available, with prices typically ranging from VND 200,000 to VND 300,000 (approximately $8 to $12).
   • The route includes passing through scenic areas of the Central Highlands.
4. Train to Nha Trang/Thap Cham and then by road:
   • Take a train from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or other cities to Nha Trang or Thap Cham.
   • From Nha Trang or Thap Cham, take a bus or taxi to Da Lat.
   • This option is generally slower and potentially more expensive than flying into Cam Ranh and taking a bus.
5. Other Considerations:
   • Consider the time of year and the potential for road closures due to weather or other factors.
   • If you choose to fly, allow extra time for transfers and potential delays.
   • If traveling with a lot of luggage, a private car or taxi might be more comfortable than a bus.
   • If you are prone to motion sickness, the train might be a better option despite the longer travel time.
   • For those traveling from Hanoi and other northern provinces, flying to Cam Ranh and then taking a bus is a viable option.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Lien Khuong Airport

The upcoming enhancements to Lien Khuong Airport will position it as a key aviation hub, connecting the Central Highlands with major economic and tourism centers both domestically and internationally. As the airport continues to evolve, it promises to deliver a world-class travel experience for all visitors to this beautiful region of Vietnam.

Stay tuned for more updates on the progress of the upgrades and how they will transform the travel landscape in Lam Dong Province!