list of airports in Laos

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Laos, a landlocked country in Southeast Asia, is gaining popularity as a travel destination, offering stunning landscapes, rich culture, and a laid-back atmosphere. While often overshadowed by its neighbors, Laos boasts a growing network of airports connecting visitors to its diverse regions. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the airports in Laos, helping you plan your journey with ease.

Understanding Air Travel in Laos

Air travel is often the most practical and efficient way to navigate Laos, given its mountainous terrain and limited road infrastructure. The national carrier, Lao Airlines, dominates domestic routes, but several international airlines also serve the major airports. Expect a range of airport sizes and facilities, from modern international hubs to smaller airstrips serving remote communities. Understanding the options available will help you choose the best airport for your arrival and onward travel.

Here’s a detailed list of airports in Laos, categorized by their primary function and including key information. Note that operational status and airline service can change, so it’s always best to confirm details before your trip.

Airport Name	IATA Code	ICAO Code	City Served	Type	Runway Length (m)
Wattay International Airport	VTE	LPPT	Vientiane	International	3,000
Luang Prabang International Airport	LPQ	VLLP	Luang Prabang	International	2,200
Pakse International Airport	PKZ	VTPK	Pakse	International	2,400
Savannakhet Airport	ZVK	VLKV	Savannakhet	Domestic	1,600
Vientiane Oudamxay Airport	UDM	VLUU	Oudamxay	Domestic	1,800
Bokeo Airport (Ban Houayxay)	OUI	VLLB	Houayxay	Domestic	1,200
Champasak Airport	XAP	VLPC	Champasak	Domestic	1,650
Phongsaly Airport	PUM	VLPF	Phongsaly	Domestic	600
Sam Neua Airport	JAE	VLSN	Sam Neua	Domestic	1,200
Saravane Airport	SVZ	VLSS	Saravane	Domestic	1,300
Thakhek Airport	THK	VLTK	Thakhek	Domestic	1,600
Xam Neua Airport	XNU	VLSN	Xam Neua	Domestic	1,200
Muang Khua Airport	UQH	VLMK	Muang Khua	Domestic	800
Nong Khang Airport	NKK	VLOI	Nong Khang	Domestic	1,200
Phouhan Airport	PHA	VLPH	Phouhan	Domestic	1,000

Key International Airports

Let’s take a closer look at the three main international airports serving Laos:

Wattay International Airport (VTE): Located in Vientiane, the capital city, Wattay is the largest and busiest airport in Laos. It serves as the primary hub for Lao Airlines and offers connections to major cities in Asia, including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Hanoi, and Seoul. Facilities include duty-free shopping, restaurants, and car rental services.

Luang Prabang International Airport (LPQ): Serving the UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang, this airport is a crucial gateway for tourists exploring northern Laos. It handles a growing number of international flights, particularly from regional hubs. The airport is relatively small but offers essential amenities.

Pakse International Airport (PKZ): Located in the south of Laos, Pakse International Airport is the main entry point for visitors heading to the 4,000 Islands (Si Phan Don) and the Bolaven Plateau. It provides connections to Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, and other regional destinations.

Domestic Airports and Regional Travel

Beyond the international hubs, Laos has a network of domestic airports that facilitate travel to more remote areas. These airports are generally smaller and offer limited services, but they are essential for exploring the country’s diverse landscapes and cultural attractions. Lao Airlines operates the majority of domestic flights, connecting Vientiane with key provincial centers. Consider these airports when planning trips to:

Oudamxay (UDM): A growing hub for northern Laos.

Houayxay (OUI): Gateway to the Golden Triangle region.

Savannakhet (ZVK): Important for travel along the Mekong River.

Sam Neua (JAE): Serves the province of Houaphanh, known for its natural beauty.

Planning Your Trip: Tips and Considerations

Book in Advance: Especially during peak season (November to February), it’s advisable to book flights well in advance to secure the best prices and availability.

Check Baggage Allowances: Domestic airlines often have stricter baggage allowances than international carriers.

Be Prepared for Delays: Weather conditions can sometimes cause flight delays, particularly during the rainy season (May to October).

Visa Requirements: Ensure you have the necessary visa to enter Laos. Visas are available on arrival at Wattay International Airport, Luang Prabang International Airport, and Pakse International Airport for many nationalities.

Transportation from Airports: Taxis and tuk-tuks are readily available at the international airports. For domestic airports, pre-arranged transportation is often recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the main international airport in Laos?
A1: Wattay International Airport (VTE) in Vientiane is the main international airport.

Q2: Does Laos have many direct international flights?
A2: Direct international flights are primarily from other Southeast Asian countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia.

Q3: Is it easy to travel between cities in Laos by plane?
A3: Yes, air travel is the easiest and often fastest way to travel between cities, especially those with limited road access.

Q4: What airlines fly to Laos?
A4: Lao Airlines is the national carrier. Other airlines include Bangkok Airways, Vietnam Airlines, and Korean Air.

Q5: Are the smaller airports in Laos well-equipped?
A5: Smaller airports generally have basic facilities, including a check-in counter and waiting area, but may lack extensive amenities like duty-free shops or restaurants.