Good News for Travelers: Lien Khuong Airport Will Reopen In August

Lien Khuong Airport Set to Reopen After Temporary Closure

There is good news on the horizon for travelers planning a trip to Da Lat. After months of disruption, Lien Khuong Airport is expected to resume operations from August 19, 2026, earlier than originally anticipated. The reopening marks an important milestone for both local residents and visitors who have been eagerly awaiting the return of direct flights to Da Lat.

The temporary closure has also paved the way for significant improvements to the region's main aviation gateway. Following the upgrade, the Da Lat airport will be able to accommodate narrow-body aircraft such as the Airbus A320 and A321 more efficiently, while also preparing to welcome larger wide-body aircraft, including the Boeing 787 and Airbus A350. These enhancements are part of a broader vision that aims to transform Lien Khuong Airport into a modern international-standard facility capable of serving millions of passengers each year.

Looking further ahead, the airport is expected to reach Level 4E international airport standards by 2030, with an annual capacity of five million passengers. Future expansion plans include extending the runway to 3,600 meters, allowing the airport to handle up to seven million passengers annually and support even greater connectivity between Da Lat and major domestic and international destinations.

For the tourism industry, the Lien Khuong Airport reopening could not come at a better time. Over the past several months, many travelers have had to rely on neighboring airports such as Cam Ranh or Buon Ma Thuot before continuing their journey by road to Da Lat. The return of direct air services is expected to make travel significantly more convenient, strengthen Da Lat tourism, and encourage more visitors to experience the cool climate, scenic landscapes, and unique charm of Vietnam's beloved mountain city.

Why Was Lien Khuong Airport Closed?

For many travelers, the temporary closure of Lien Khuong Airport came as an unexpected inconvenience, especially during one of the busiest travel periods of the year. However, the shutdown was part of a major infrastructure project designed to support the long-term growth of both the airport and Da Lat tourism.

Beginning on March 4, 2026, the airport suspended operations for more than five months to allow for extensive upgrades to its runway and taxiway system. With an investment exceeding VND 1 trillion, the project aims to improve operational safety, increase aircraft handling capacity, and prepare the airport for future expansion as passenger demand continues to grow.

While the improvements are expected to bring long-term benefits, the temporary closure inevitably created challenges for travelers. Industry estimates suggested that nearly one million passenger journeys could be affected during the suspension period, much of it coinciding with the summer travel season when demand for flights to Da Lat is typically at its highest.

The impact was particularly noticeable among certain visitor segments. Business event travelers, MICE groups, luxury travelers, and young professionals seeking short getaways from cities such as Hanoi and Hai Phong often rely on direct air connections to maximize their time. With the region's main Da Lat airport temporarily unavailable, some travelers postponed their trips altogether, while others opted for alternative destinations that offered easier access.

Yet despite these challenges, Da Lat's appeal has remained remarkably resilient. The city continues to attract visitors drawn by its cool climate, pine-covered hills, coffee culture, and relaxed atmosphere. In fact, the airport closure has also prompted many travelers to explore new routes and discover different ways of reaching the Central Highlands, proving that the journey to Da Lat is still well worth making.

Alternative Ways to Travel to Da Lat During the Airport Closure

Although the temporary shutdown of Lien Khuong Airport has affected direct access to the city, reaching Da Lat remains easier than many travelers might expect. Whether you're traveling from another part of Vietnam or arriving from overseas, there are still several convenient options available. For anyone wondering how to get to Da Lat during this period, these alternatives can help keep your travel plans on track.

Fly to a Nearby Airport and Continue by Road

For travelers coming from northern or central Vietnam, one of the most practical solutions is to fly to a nearby airport and complete the journey by road.

The most popular option is to fly into Cam Ranh International Airport in Nha Trang. Located around 160 kilometers from Da Lat, it offers frequent domestic connections and is well connected to major cities across Vietnam. From there, travelers can continue by coach, private transfer, or rental car, enjoying a scenic drive through the spectacular Khanh Le Pass before reaching the cool mountain landscapes of Da Lat.

Another alternative is Buon Ma Thuot Airport in the Central Highlands. Situated approximately 200 kilometers from Da Lat, it provides a useful gateway for travelers who prefer a quieter route through the region. From the airport, buses and private vehicles are available for the onward journey via National Highway 27.

For many visitors, this combination of air and road travel has become one of the most practical alternative ways to reach Da Lat while waiting for the full return of direct services at Lien Khuong Airport.

Travel by Road from Ho Chi Minh City

Road travel remains one of the most popular forms of Da Lat transportation, particularly for domestic travelers departing from Ho Chi Minh City. The route follows National Highway 20 and the Lien Khuong–Prenn Expressway, connecting southern Vietnam with the Central Highlands.

A wide range of transport options is available, including sleeper buses, luxury limousine services, private transfers, and self-drive vehicles. Depending on traffic conditions and departure points, the journey typically takes between six and eight hours. Along the way, travelers can enjoy changing landscapes as bustling urban areas gradually give way to pine forests, rolling hills, and cooler mountain air.

For those who enjoy flexibility and road-trip adventures, driving to Da Lat can be an experience in itself. However, drivers should exercise caution on mountain roads, particularly when traveling through steep or winding sections.

Take the Train and Continue by Road

Travelers who prefer a slower and more scenic journey may consider combining rail and road transport. Visitors from Hanoi, Da Nang, and many coastal cities can take a train to Nha Trang before continuing onward to Da Lat by bus, private car, or transfer service.

While this option requires more travel time, it offers a unique opportunity to experience Vietnam's diverse landscapes, from coastal views and fishing villages to the dramatic mountain scenery of the Central Highlands. The drive from Nha Trang to Da Lat via Khanh Le Pass is widely regarded as one of the country's most beautiful road journeys, making this route particularly appealing for travelers who value the experience as much as the destination.

Until the highly anticipated Lien Khuong Airport reopening, these transportation options ensure that visitors can continue enjoying everything Da Lat has to offer. With a little extra planning, the City of Eternal Spring remains as accessible and rewarding as ever.

The upcoming Lien Khuong Airport reopening is welcome news for travelers and a positive sign for the continued growth of Da Lat tourism. While the temporary closure has required visitors to rethink their travel plans, it has also highlighted the many different ways to reach one of Vietnam's most beloved destinations. Whether you choose to fly via a nearby airport, travel by road through the scenic Central Highlands, or combine rail and road journeys, the charm of Da Lat remains well worth the effort. Ready to explore the City of Eternal Spring? Let ACT Travel help you plan a seamless journey to Da Lat, complete with personalized itineraries, transportation arrangements, and unforgettable local experiences.