Lien Khuong Airport closes for six‑month upgrade from March

Lâm Đồng — Lien Khuong International Airport, the primary air gateway to Da Lat and the Central Highlands, will temporarily close for six months starting March 4, 2026, to undergo major runway and taxiway repairs. The closure, scheduled until August 25, 2026, will affect all commercial flights to and from the airport.

The project, managed by the Lam Dong provincial authorities, involves comprehensive rehabilitation of the airfield’s infrastructure. According to the official announcement, the work is essential to maintain safety standards and enhance operational capacity for the growing number of flights serving the popular highlands destination.

Airlines reroute to maintain regional connectivity

In response to the closure, Vietnam Airlines has announced a series of adjustments to maintain air links with the Central Highlands and South Central Coast regions. The carrier will increase frequencies on nearby routes to accommodate passengers traveling to and from Lam Dong province.

“These adjustments help preserve connectivity between the Central Highlands, South Central Coast, and major economic centers while an important aviation hub is temporarily closed for essential infrastructure upgrades,” a Vietnam Airlines representative said.

Passenger support: free rebooking and refunds

Vietnam Airlines has issued a comprehensive support policy for travellers affected by the suspension. Passengers with confirmed tickets for travel between 4 March and 25 August 2026 inclusive are entitled to:

• Free one‑time date change – rebooking to alternative dates (subject to fare difference if any).
• Free route change – modify the itinerary to/from alternative airports (Buon Ma Thuot, Pleiku, or others) with applicable fare adjustments.
• Full refund – including prepaid ancillary services, with no cancellation fee.

The support policy is valid until 31 August 2026. Passengers are advised to contact Vietnam Airlines ticket offices, official agents, or the customer care hotline for assistance.

Lam Dong speeds up construction to shorten closure

Local authorities are working to minimise disruption. The Lam Dong Department of Construction has been tasked with coordinating with investors and consultants to review preparation work and construction solutions, aiming to shorten the closure period if possible.

The upgrade is part of broader efforts to improve aviation infrastructure across Vietnam, following record passenger numbers during the 2026 Tet holiday. Lien Khuong Airport has seen steady growth in recent years, serving both domestic tourists heading to Da Lat and a rising number of international visitors exploring the highlands.

What travellers need to know

For those planning to visit Da Lat or Lam Dong province between March and late August 2026:

• Alternative airports: Lien Khuong is closed. The nearest commercial airports are Buon Ma Thuot (approx. 4‑5 hours by road) and Cam Ranh (Nha Trang, approx. 3.5‑4 hours).
• Ground transport: Buses, private cars and limousine services continue to operate between these airports and Da Lat. Several companies offer direct connections.
• Stay updated: Monitor official announcements from Vietnam Airlines and the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam for any changes to the schedule or additional support measures.

Vietnam Airlines stated it will continue to coordinate closely with relevant authorities and monitor construction progress, ready to resume flights as soon as Lien Khuong Airport is cleared for operations.