Xieng Khouang Airport (XKH)

Xieng Khouang Airport (IATA: XKH, ICAO: VLXK) serves as the primary air gateway to Phonsavan and the wider Xieng Khouang Province in Laos, a region renowned for the UNESCO World Heritage site, the Plain of Jars. Its principal role is facilitating tourism and providing an essential transportation link to this historically significant and otherwise remote area of the country. The airport is conveniently located just three kilometers southwest of the center of Phonsavan, the provincial capital. This proximity ensures a short and straightforward transfer for arriving and departing passengers, with travel time to most hotels in town typically taking less than 15 minutes.

The current airport terminal was constructed in the mid-1990s and replaced an older airfield. Its development was crucial for opening the region to modern tourism after decades of isolation. Operationally, Xieng Khouang Airport handles exclusively domestic flights. The most frequent and reliable route connects Phonsavan with Wattay International Airport (VTE) in the capital city of Vientiane. Services are operated by the national carrier, Lao Airlines, as well as Lao Skyway, utilizing turboprop aircraft suitable for the runway length and passenger demand. There are no regularly scheduled international flights, and passenger volume is modest, reflecting its status as a small regional airport.

The facility consists of a single, small terminal building designed for functional simplicity. Inside, travelers will find basic amenities, including check-in counters for the operating airlines, a security screening point, and a communal departure lounge with seating. There are limited commercial services, typically comprising a small snack bar or kiosk selling drinks and light refreshments, and basic restroom facilities. Visitors should not expect duty-free shops, executive lounges, or a wide array of dining options.

For travelers using the airport, arriving approximately 90 minutes prior to a scheduled domestic departure is generally sufficient. Upon arrival, transportation into Phonsavan is readily available via tuk-tuks or taxis waiting outside the terminal. Many local hotels and guesthouses also offer pre-arranged airport transfer services, which can provide added convenience. As the airport is small and navigation is simple, transiting through it is a quick and uncomplicated process. Having a small amount of local currency (Lao Kip) on hand is recommended for paying for transport or any small purchases at the terminal.