On February 27, Lam Dong authorities announced that Lien Khuong Airport - Da Lat’s only air gateway - will close from March 4 to August 28, 2026, for a major facility upgrade. During this period, all commercial flights to and from this tourism hub will be suspended.
The airport currently connects Da Lat with major domestic destinations including Hanoi, Hai Phong and Ho Chi Minh City, as well as international routes from Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) and Taoyuan (Taiwan). Authorities estimate that the six-month shutdown could affect around 960,000 passengers.
The shutdown for a major transformation
The planned shutdown marks the most consequential upgrade in the history of Lien Khuong Airport.
First built in 1933, the airport has undergone several rounds of improvement. In 2009, it underwent a major upgrade to accommodate larger aircraft and increased passenger capacity, helping transform Da Lat from a remote highland retreat into an accessible domestic tourism destination. In 2019, the airport can accommodate medium-range commercial aircraft such as the Boeing 767 and Airbus A320 and A321, with a handling capacity of 1.5 to 2 million passengers per year.
However, according to Lam Dong’s Department of Construction, Lien Khuong International Airport has been operating far beyond its original design capacity. Each year, the airport welcomes more than 2,5 million passengers.
After a long period, several key infrastructure components have deteriorated, including the runway and taxiways, which no longer fully meet operational safety and efficiency requirements.
Under the master plan, Lien Khuong Airport will be upgraded to grade 4E - the highest classification of Vietnam’s international airport - with a targeted capacity of 5 million passengers per year by 2030 and around 7 million passengers annually by 2050.
The major shutdown focuses on rebuilding the airport’s operational backbone, positioning it not only to handle current demand but to support Da Lat’s long-term role as an international tourism gateway in the Central Highlands.
A plan to welcome 12 million visitors without flight options
According to Lam Dong authorities, the closure of Lien Khuong Airport will affect around 960,000 passengers. During this period, Da Lat will have to rely on road transport, with connections from the South Central Coast and Southeast regions, posing significant pressure on transport infrastructure and the risk of prolonged congestion. It may also lose a large amount of high-end and international travellers, who typically prioritise time over cost.
However, authorities have set an ambitious target: to attract 12 million visitors to Da Lat during the airport closure period. To sustain tourism without direct flight access, several measures are being rolled out:
- First, road connectivity is being strengthened. Lam Dong is expediting the completion of key transport routes, including National Highway 28B linking Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat, which is expected to cut travel time from 6-7 hours to around 4,5 hours.
- Second, the city aims to attract visitors towards deeper, longer stays by promoting experiential tourism products such as agricultural tours, wellness travel, and a revitalised night-time economy.
- Finally, authorities are working to enhance the journey from nearby airports to Da Lat. Under the message “One journey – multiple experiences,” travel routes will integrate coastal destinations like Mui Ne and the dramatic landscapes of Ta Dung with Da Lat’s signature romantic charm, turning transit into part of the tourism experience.
Alternative way to travel to Da Lat
Passengers holding a ticket to Da Lat from March 4 to August 25 are entitled to a refund or ticket changes in accordance with airline support policies. Airlines currently operating these routes — including Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air and Bamboo Airways — have notified passengers with tickets on these days and are guiding available options.
With air access temporarily suspended, a common alternative is to fly to Cam Ranh International Airport (Khanh Hoa) and then continue to Da Lat by road. The distance from Cam Ranh to Da Lat ranges from 130 to 150 kilometres, with travel time by car taking approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
If travelling from Ho Chi Minh City and nearby provinces, visitors can opt for an entirely road-based journey. From Ho Chi Minh City, travellers can take National Highway 20, with the trip to Lam Dong typically taking around 6 to 7 hours. Once National Highway 28B is completed (expected by March 2026) travel time could be reduced to approximately 4,5 hours.
Passengers can choose between taxis, private cars, limousine services or coaches. They are advised to book in advance to avoid inconvenience.
Travellers with more time may also consider reaching Da Lat by rail. The nearest railway station is Nha Trang, located about 134 kilometres away. From there, passengers can continue their journey to Da Lat by coach.
