Luang Phabang International Airport (LPQ)
Luang Phabang, LA 🇱🇦 Medium Airport Scheduled Service
ICAO
VLLB
IATA
LPQ
Elevation
955 ft
Region
LA-LP
Local Time
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GPS Code: VLLB
Local Code: Not available
Location: 19.897301° N, 102.161003° E
Continent: Asia
Type: Medium Airport
What Travelers Say
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Online Reviews Summary
Luang Phabang International Airport (LPQ) generally receives mixed but often positive reviews, particularly praising its efficiency as a small regional airport. Travelers frequently note its compact size and straightforward navigation, contributing to a relatively smooth experience, especially for departures. However, some common challenges exist, primarily related to visa-on-arrival processing and limited amenities.
What Travelers Love
- Compact and Efficient: LPQ is a small airport with a single terminal, making navigation simple and often quick for arrivals and departures when not busy.
- Prompt Baggage Claim: Luggage collection is typically efficient, with minimal waiting times.
- Visa-on-Arrival Availability: The airport offers visa-on-arrival services, providing convenience for many international visitors, though with potential for queues.
- Proximity to City Center: The airport is located very close to Luang Prabang's city center (about 4 kilometers), allowing for quick and inexpensive transfers by taxi or tuk-tuk (10-15 minutes).
- Friendly Staff: Many travelers report friendly and helpful staff, especially at check-in and security.
- Reliable Private Transfers: Pre-booked private transfers are highly rated for punctuality, professionalism, and clean vehicles, enhancing a safe and welcoming arrival.
Common Complaints
- Immigration Delays: The visa-on-arrival process can lead to significant hold-ups and long queues, especially if multiple international flights arrive simultaneously or during peak hours. There might also be a small fee charged for arrivals outside regular immigration hours or on weekends.
- Limited Amenities and Services: Facilities are basic. Some retail outlets and money exchange services may be closed during evening arrivals. There are limited food and beverage options, with some reporting poor Wi-Fi connectivity.
- Lack of Air Conditioning: Some reviews mention a lack of adequate air conditioning in certain areas.
- Refurbishment Needs: While generally clean, some parts of the airport could benefit from renovation and refurbishment.
- No Dedicated Resting Areas: There are no dedicated sleeping areas or showers for extended layovers.
Overall, Luang Phabang International Airport is a functional gateway to a charming destination. While its small size can lead to efficiency, particularly on departure, travelers should be prepared for potential delays at immigration upon arrival, especially if opting for a visa-on-arrival, and manage expectations regarding extensive amenities or modern facilities.
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Airport Routes
Luang Phabang International Airport (LPQ) offers 13 flight routes operated by 7 airlines. Major carriers include Lao Aviation, Thai AirAsia, Vietnam Airlines and others. Popular destinations from Luang Phabang include Noi Bai Int'l, Suvarnabhumi Bangkok Int'l, Wattay Int'l, Xieng Khouang and Don Muang Int'l (Old Bangkok Int'l).
Route Network Map
Top Routes (by observations)
Newly Discovered
- Don Muang Int'l (Old Bangkok Int'l) (DMK) new
- Noi Bai Int'l (HAN) new
- Kunming Changshui Int'l (KMG) new
- Siem Reap–Angkor International Airport (SAI) new
- Suvarnabhumi Bangkok Int'l (BKK) new
- Chiang Mai Int'l (CNX) new
- Wattay Int'l (VTE) new
- Xieng Khouang (XKH) new
- Pakse (PKZ) new
- Shenzhen Bao'an Int'l (SZX) new
Popular Flight Routes
| Destination | IATA | City | Aircraft Type | Airline | Details | Route Map |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Top Airlines
Operating at Luang Phabang International AirportAirlines by Flight Activity
Based on observed flight operations and route network| Airline | Routes | Flights | Destinations | Last Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Lao Aviation
LAO
/ QV
|
5 | 210 | 5 | Jan 30, 2026 |
Thai AirAsia
AIQ
/ FD
|
2 | 102 | 2 | Jan 30, 2026 |
Vietnam Airlines
HVN
/ VN
|
2 | 85 | 2 | Jan 30, 2026 |
|
Bangkok
BKP
/ PG
|
1 | 62 | 1 | Jan 30, 2026 |
China Eastern
CES
/ MU
|
1 | 22 | 1 | Jan 30, 2026 |
|
Alpine Aviation
AIP
/ 5A
|
1 | 13 | 1 | Jan 27, 2026 |
Hainan Airlines
CHH
/ HU
|
1 | 2 | 1 | Jan 8, 2026 |
For Pilots
| Designation | Length | Width | Surface | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
06/24 |
8202 ft | 148 ft | ASP | Active Lighted |
| Type | Description | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| APP | APP | 118.5 MHz |
| TWR | TWR | 118.5 MHz |
Ground Transportation
Taxis
The primary and most convenient option is the official pre-paid airport taxi service. A counter is located in the arrivals hall where you purchase a fixed-price voucher for a private car or a spot in a shared minivan. This system eliminates haggling and provides a straightforward transfer to the city center.
Rental Cars
Several car rental companies, including international brands like Avis and local providers, have desks within the arrivals terminal. Renting a car is a viable option for those wishing to explore the surrounding countryside at their own pace. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended and often required.
Public Transportation
There is no public bus or train service directly connecting the airport to Luang Phabang's city center. The main forms of transport are the pre-paid taxis and rental cars. Tuk-tuks are generally not permitted to pick up passengers directly at the arrivals terminal.