Tho Xuan Airport (THD)

Tho Xuan Airport, also known as Thanh Hoa Air Base or formerly Sao Vang Airport, is a dual-use military-civilian airport located in Sao Vang town, Tho Xuan District, approximately 45 kilometers northwest of Thanh Hoa city center in northern Vietnam. Situated at an elevation of 62 feet above sea level, the airport began civilian operations on February 5, 2013, and has since served over 1.6 million passengers. The facility represents an important regional aviation hub connecting Thanh Hoa Province to Vietnam's major population centers, particularly Ho Chi Minh City through regular scheduled services. The airport features a single concrete runway designated 13/31, measuring 3,200 meters by 50 meters, with the capability to accommodate medium-haul aircraft including Airbus A320 and Boeing 737 aircraft types. The runway infrastructure includes a comprehensive taxiway system with five main connecting taxiways, additional connecting routes, and a rapid exit taxiway designed to optimize aircraft movements. The apron area is configured to handle multiple aircraft simultaneously, particularly during peak operational periods when several daily flights operate concurrently. The passenger terminal building spans 5,460 square meters across two levels, designed with spacious, well-ventilated architecture typical of modern Vietnamese airports. The ground floor houses passenger processing facilities including eight check-in counters, automated check-in kiosks, security screening areas, and immigration facilities. The second floor features dining establishments, souvenir shops, and passenger lounges, providing comprehensive amenities for travelers. Additional services include ATM machines, complimentary phone charging stations, and luggage trolley services for passenger convenience. Currently, Tho Xuan Airport maintains regular scheduled service on the Thanh Hoa to Ho Chi Minh City route, operated by three major Vietnamese carriers: Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Bamboo Airways, with 8-10 daily flights providing essential connectivity between northern and southern Vietnam. The airport operates under joint military-civilian management by the Vietnam People's Air Force, with future expansion plans including a second runway, enhanced cargo facilities with 27,000-50,000 ton annual capacity, and installation of ILS and CAT systems to improve all-weather operational capabilities.