Noi Bai Airport (HAN): How to transfer between International and Domestic Terminal

Noi Bai International Airport (IATA code: HAN) in Hanoi is Vietnam’s second-largest airport and an important hub for both domestic and international travel. For many travelers, especially those with connecting flights, transferring between Terminal 1 (T1) and Terminal 2 (T2) is a necessary part of the journey.

This article provides a practical guide to transferring between the International Terminal (T2) and Domestic Terminal (T1) at Noi Bai Airport, including the current terminal allocation, transfer procedures, free shuttle bus service and useful tips for a smooth connection.

Current Terminal Allocation at Noi Bai Airport (HAN)

Noi Bai International Airport currently has two main passenger terminals.

• Terminal 1 (T1): Handles domestic flights operated by airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, Bamboo Airways and Pacific Airlines. T1 is divided into several halls such as A, B, E, and it has facilities such as check-in counters, food stalls, and waiting lounges tailored for domestic travel.
• Terminal 2 (T2): Handles international arrivals and departures operated by both Vietnamese and international airlines. Apart from basic infrastructures, T2 also features spacious departure halls, duty-free shops, or business lounges, etc..

How to transfer between International and Domestic Terminal at Noi Bai Airport (HAN)

Although T1 and T2 at HAN are located in separate buildings, the distance between them is around 01 kilometer (km). Based on your need and budgets, here are several convenient ways to transfer between the terminals.

Airport Shuttle Bus 

The most common and convenient way to transfer between the two terminals is by using the Airport shuttle bus.

• Cost: Free of charge;
• Service hours: From 05:00 AM to 01:00 AM (the next day);
• Service frequency: During the period from 07:00 to 23:00, there are 02 buses operating at a frequency of 15 minutes per trip, and the remaining time there is 01 bus operating at a frequency of 20 minutes per trip;
• Bus 1: From 05:00 AM to 11:00 PM; Bus 2: From 07:00 AM to 01:15 AM (of the next morning);
• Passenger pickup locations:
  • Terminal 1: Level 1 (Hall A);
  • Terminal 2: Level 1 (Lane 2, Columns 11, 12);

Walking

Walking between T1 and T2 is technically possible, but it is generally not recommended for connecting passengers, especially if you have luggage. The terminals are in separate buildings, and the walk may take around 15–20 minutes depending on your pace. During hot weather or rain, taking the free shuttle bus is much more convenient.

Airport Taxi or Ride-Hailing Apps

Travelers who are in a hurry, traveling late at night when shuttle buses are less frequent, or those carrying oversized luggage can consider taxis and ride-hailing services such as Grab. They are available at both T1 and T2. While the distance between 02 terminals is short, the fare can be around 40,000 – 60,000 VND (about US $2 – 3). 

Tips for smooth transfer between T1 and T2 at Noi Bai Airport (HAN)

While the actual transfer is straightforward, several practical tips can help ensure the process is smooth, especially for first-time visitors to Noi Bai Airport or those on tight connections.

• Time buffer: The terminal transfer itself is quick, but the complete connection process can take much longer because of Immigration, baggage collection, Customs, check-in and security. For an international-to-domestic connection, we recommend allowing at least 3 hours, and preferably more if you have separate tickets, checked baggage or are arriving during a busy period.
• Use VIP Fast-Track services: For passengers with limited connection time, first-time visitors or those who prefer a hassle-free arrival, our VIP Fast Track service can be especially helpful. Our staff can meet you at the arrival Immigration area, assist you through the priority immigration process, and guide you with the next steps for your connecting flight. Additional terminal-transfer assistance may also be arranged depending on your booking. At busy times, avoiding the regular immigration queue can save a significant amount of time before you transfer from T2 to T1.
• Keep travel documents handy: When transferring between domestic and international flights, passengers often need to re-check in at the connecting terminal. As a result, keeping documents such as passports, e-tickets, and boarding passes easily accessible will help you save times.
• Follow Signage and Announcements: Both terminals are equipped with clear bilingual signage in Vietnamese and English. Electronic boards display shuttle bus schedules, departure times, and directions. Also listening carefully to announcements and following airport staff instructions is important.

Transferring between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 at Noi Bai International Airport is straightforward, especially with the free inter-terminal shuttle bus. However, if you have a connecting flight, remember that the terminal transfer itself is only one part of the process. Immigration, baggage collection, Customs, check-in and security may take considerably longer, so allowing enough connection time is essential.

If you are arriving at Noi Bai Airport for the first time or have a tight connection, our VIP Fast Track service can help make your arrival and transfer process faster and less stressful.

For further assistance, please contact us via Hotline / WhatsApp / Zalo at +84 86 517 8972 or email sales@vmetravel.net.

👉 You also may need to know how to transfer between International and Domestic Terminal at Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN). Check here.