Wattay International Airport (IATA: VTE, ICAO: VLVT) serves Vientiane, LA. It has 63 scheduled routes to 46 destinations in 10 countries, operated by 26 airlines.
- Compact and Easy to Navigate: The airport is described as small, with international and domestic terminals connected, making it easy to walk from one end to the other in a few minutes. Travelers note that you don't need to arrive hours in advance.
- Central Location: Wattay International Airport is surprisingly central, located just three kilometers west of Vientiane's CBD, making commutes from city hotels easy.
- Efficient Immigration (sometimes): While wait times can vary, some travelers report a relatively quick immigration process, especially if an electronic arrival card is filled out in advance.
- Authentic Local Feel: The airport features unique elements like a large wooden relief, contributing to a distinct Lao atmosphere.
- Friendly Staff: One traveler noted the pleasant and almost apologetic demeanor of security officers.
- Limited Facilities and Amenities: Travelers frequently mention the lack of diverse shops, restaurants, and entertainment options beyond a duty-free shop, a souvenir shop, and a few small cafes. There are no cinemas, waterfalls, massage chairs, or reliable Wi-Fi.
- Security/Immigration Efficiency: While sometimes quick, security and immigration efficiency are rated as unpopular compared to other airports, with wait times potentially ranging from 15 to 40 minutes, and longer for visa on arrival.
- Food and Drink Options Post-Immigration: The selection of food and drinks is very limited once past immigration, with travelers advised to eat beforehand.
- Lack of Public Transport: There is essentially no regular public transportation route directly to and from the airport.
- Early Arrival Issues: Arriving too early for international flights can mean long waits as check-in desks may not be open.
- Sources researched: flight-report.com, atoday.com.au, us.trip.com, om.trip.com, airporttransferportal.com*
Bottom line: Wattay International Airport is a functional and generally quiet airport suitable for its purpose as a gateway to Vientiane and Laos. Travelers should manage expectations regarding amenities and plan for transportation, especially for late arrivals.
Routes from VTE
46 nonstop destinations · 26 airlines.
Airlines at VTE
26 carriers operate scheduled departures.
Route Network Map
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Airport routes
Wattay International Airport (VTE) offers 63 flight routes operated by 26 airlines. Major carriers include Lao Aviation, Sichuan Airlines, 9 Air and others. Popular destinations from Vientiane include Kunming Changshui Int'l, Sam Neua, Pakse, Suvarnabhumi Bangkok Int'l, Xieng Khouang.
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Common questions about VTE
Quick answers, straight from the schedule data.
How many destinations have nonstop flights from VTE?
Wattay International Airport has 63 scheduled routes to 46 destinations in 10 countries, operated by 26 airlines.
Which airlines fly from Wattay International Airport?
26 carriers operate scheduled departures, including Lao Aviation, Sichuan Airlines, 9 Air.
Where is Wattay International Airport located?
Wattay International Airport is located in Vientiane, LA, at an elevation of 564 ft. Its IATA code is VTE and ICAO code is VLVT.