Spotting at Ho Chi Minh City Tan Son Nhat Airport

Tan Son Nhat International is Vietnam’s busiest airport and the main home base of Vietnam Airlines and other carriers.  Despite adding a modern international terminal in 2007, the airport is overcrowded and in need of further expansion and upgrade.

Alongside the international terminal is a domestic terminal, a busy cargo hub, and areas of parking for local and executive aircraft. The airport has a pair of parallel runways.

Spotting is difficult at this airport, however the Ibis hotel is perfect for some privacy and relaxation. The terminal buildings have plenty of views, and there are some views when approaching the airport by road.

The pictures in this guide are by Erik Ritterbach from a recent visit passing through Ho Chi Minh City airport.

Spotting Locations

1. Ibis Hotel
   An easier way to spot at Ho Chi Minh city than by tackling the roads. (see later)
2. Cong Hoa
   This street is to the west of the terminal area and passes close to the end of the runway. A café on the high floors of 602 Cong Hoa has an outdoor terrace and good views of aircraft on approach if coming from the west.

Ho Chi Minh Airport Spotting Hotels

Ibis Ho Chi Minh City Airport
2 Hong Ha Street, Ho Chi Minh, Ho Chi Minh City 700000 | +84 8 3848 5556 | www.ibis.com
A fairly new hotel. King rooms on floors 7 and up in the *18-*26 range have views of aircraft landing and departing, but not on the ground as the airport terminal is in the way. There is also a rooftop pool bar area. A strong camera lens will give you some good shots.

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My thanks to Erik Ritterbach for the pictures.