Flying into Chu Lai or Phu Bai: A Way to Save on Peak-Season Fares

Da Nang and Hoi An are always top choices for travel. However, during peak seasons (such as the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival - DIFF, the April 30th holiday, or summer), direct flight tickets to Da Nang International Airport (DAD) skyrocket. Sometimes, round-trip tickets can reach up to 4 - 6 million VND per person!

So how can you save money while still enjoying a perfect trip? The secret of savvy travelers is to book flights to nearby airports (Chu Lai or Phu Bai) and then rent a car to travel by road to Da Nang/Hoi An.

1. Option 1: Fly to Chu Lai Airport (VCL) — The Optimal Choice for Hoi An Visitors

Chu Lai Airport (located in Nui Thanh, Quang Nam) frequently has flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City at much cheaper prices (from 30% - 50% less) compared to flying directly to Da Nang, especially during peak seasons.

Distance and Route

• Chu Lai ➝ Hoi An: About 70km (1 hour 30 minutes).
• Chu Lai ➝ Da Nang: About 100km (1 hour 45 minutes) if taking the Da Nang – Quang Ngai expressway.

Renting a Car from Chu Lai Airport to Hoi An / Da Nang

Although Chu Lai is further away, the cost saved from flight tickets can more than make up for the car rental cost, especially if you are traveling in a large group or with family. Faifo Express provides a private car pick-up service from Chu Lai Airport, traveling smoothly on the expressway with modern vehicles (including VF5 electric cars to minimize motion sickness).

[!NOTE] Pricing Note for International Tourists The prices listed are inclusive of a 20% tax and service fee applied to foreign tourists. Estimated USD rates are based on current exchange rates and may slightly vary.

All-inclusive price for Chu Lai Airport ↔ Hoi An transfer (1 way):

If traveling from Chu Lai to Da Nang city center, there is an additional surcharge of about 200,000 VND - 300,000 VND depending on the vehicle type.

2. Option 2: Fly to Phu Bai Airport (HUI) — Combine with a Tour of the Ancient Capital Hue

Phu Bai Airport is located in Huong Thuy town, Thua Thien Hue. This is a major airport with stable flight volumes and many convenient flight times. Ticket prices to Phu Bai are usually very “soft”.

Distance and Route

• Phu Bai ➝ Da Nang: About 90km.
• Via Hai Van Tunnel: Takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Fast and convenient.
• Via Hai Van Pass: Takes more than 2 hours. But you will have the chance to admire one of the most impressive coastal passes (“The most magnificent landscape under heaven”).

The “Double” Benefit of Flying to Phu Bai

Instead of heading straight to Da Nang, you can spend 1 - 2 days relaxing and exploring the royal tombs, the Hue Citadel, and enjoying authentic Hue beef noodle soup. After that, rent a 16-seater van or a 29-32 seater tourist bus from Hue to Da Nang/Hoi An if you are traveling in a large group (team building, family vacation). You can also check out our airport transfer service to prepare for your trip.

3. Real Cost Comparison (Example: A Group of 4)

Let’s assume you fly from Hanoi in mid-June (peak season).

Option 1: Fly Directly to Da Nang (DAD)

• Flight tickets: 4 people x 1,500,000 VND = 6,000,000 VND.
• Car rental from Da Nang Airport to Hoi An (7-seater): 324,000 VND.
• Total cost: ~ 6,324,000 VND.

Option 2: Fly to Chu Lai (VCL) + Rent a Private Car to Hoi An

• Flight tickets to Chu Lai: 4 people x 800,000 VND = 3,200,000 VND.
• Car rental from Chu Lai Airport to Hoi An (7-seater): 1,080,000 VND.
• Total cost: ~ 4,280,000 VND.

💡 Conclusion: By flying through Chu Lai, your family has saved over 2,044,000 VND for just a one-way trip! This amount is enough for the whole family to enjoy a hearty seafood feast in Hoi An or pay for a 1-night hotel stay.

4. Why Choose Faifo Express Inter-Provincial Car Service?

Traveling long distances from Chu Lai or Phu Bai requires a smooth ride and an experienced driver to ensure a safe, fatigue-free journey. Faifo Express offers:

1. Diverse Fleet: Ranging from quiet, noise-free Vinfast electric cars (4 seats) to premium, modern 7, 16, 29, and 32-seater vehicles with cool air conditioning.
2. Safe Drivers: Long-distance drivers hold high-class licenses, are familiar with the Quang Ngai – Da Nang expressway, and are proficient on the Hai Van Pass/Tunnel route. They drive carefully without speeding or reckless overtaking.
3. Thoughtful Pick-up Support: The driver will be ready with a name board at the arrival hall of any airport, assisting guests with their luggage.
4. Transparent Pricing: The quoted price is all-inclusive, covering toll fees and toll stations. No upfront payment required.

Flying to nearby airports is not only a money-saving strategy but also a new experience on beautiful coastal roads. Don’t forget to call Zalo/Hotline for Faifo Express to prepare for a safe ride and thoughtful pick-up!