Cam Ranh International Airport – The Gateway to Nha Trang
Operating since 2009, the Cam Ranh International Airport has been a reliable direct gateway for tourists coming to Nha Trang - one of Vietnam’s most scenic beach cities.
Cam Ranh International Airport (airport code: CXR) is the main airport serving the coastal city of Nha Trang and the province of Khánh Hòa. Located in Bắc Cam Ranh Ward, the airport sits about 35 kilometers from downtown Nha Trang and plays a key role in bringing millions of travelers to one of Vietnam’s most popular beach destinations.
Introduction to Cam Ranh Airport
If you’re booking a flight to Nha Trang, you’ll most likely land at Cam Ranh International Airport, located in Khánh Hòa Province. It serves as the main air gateway to the coastal city of Nha Trang and surrounding beach destinations, making it a key arrival point for both domestic and international travelers.
Here are some essential details you should know before your trip:
Full name: Cam Ranh International Airport
Address: Bắc Cam Ranh Ward, Khánh Hòa Province, Vietnam
Distance to Nha Trang city center: Approximately 35 km
Airport code: CXR
Country code: +84
Phone number: +84 258 3989 956
Number of terminals: 2 (Domestic T1 and International T2)
Time zone: GMT+7
Cam Ranh International Airport’s history and development
Interestingly, the airport has a unique history. It was originally built and used by the U.S. military during the war. After 1975, it continued operating for military purposes until 2004, when it officially transitioned to civilian operations. This move replaced the old Nha Trang Airport, which was located in the city center and could no longer meet safety and expansion needs. The first commercial flight landed at Cam Ranh on May 19, 2004, departing from Hanoi. By 2009, the airport had been upgraded and officially recognized as an international airport—marking a major milestone in Khánh Hòa’s tourism development.
Facilities & infrastructure
Today, Cam Ranh International Airport operates two runways, each 3,048 meters long and 45 meters wide, capable of handling large aircraft such as the Airbus A350 and Boeing 787, along with other common commercial planes. The aircraft apron currently accommodates 26 parking positions, with plans to expand to 36 by 2030 to keep up with growing passenger demand.
The airport has two passenger terminals: Terminal 1 (T1) for domestic flights and Terminal 2 (T2) for international routes. Terminal 2 stands out with its wave-like roof design inspired by the swallow’s nest—an iconic symbol of Khánh Hòa’s coastal identity. Built to meet international 4-star standards, the terminal features modern operating systems, spacious layouts, and a comfortable travel environment. It has consistently received high satisfaction ratings from passengers.
Beyond its infrastructure, the airport offers a range of convenient amenities, including free 24/7 Wi-Fi, complimentary drinking water stations near departure gates, business lounges, duty-free shopping, and a variety of cafés and restaurants featuring familiar global brands. From the airport, travelers can easily reach popular nearby attractions such as Bai Dai Beach, Binh Ba Island, and the Nha Trang Oceanography Institute.
Arrival & Departure flights
On the domestic side, Cam Ranh connects Nha Trang with major cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hai Phong, Da Nang, and Vinh. Internationally, the airport serves direct routes from destinations like Taipei, Kaohsiung, Seoul, and Moscow, operated by various local and international airlines. These connections have helped position Nha Trang as a vibrant and accessible international travel hub.
With its strategic location and ongoing development, Cam Ranh International Airport is more than just a transportation hub—it’s a key driver of tourism and economic growth in Khánh Hòa, and an essential gateway for anyone heading to Vietnam’s beautiful central coast.
