Luang Prabang Transport Getting there and away

Luang Prabang Transport: Getting there and away
The small Luang Prabang airport (airport code LPQ) is located 4 kilometres from the city centre. Like the city itself, the airport is a throwback to simpler times with a single terminal, single runway, and outdoor waiting area. There are plans to expand the airport starting in 2011 to accommodate more flights and larger planes. Until then, only three carriers -- Lao Airlines, Bangkok Airways and Vietnam Airlines -- regularly fly in and out of Luang Prabang.

Lao Airlines flies domestically to Vientiane (three flights daily) and Pakse (three flights per week). Flights to Phonsavan were discontinued a number of years ago. Internationally, Lao Airlines links LPQ to Siam Reap (daily except Tuesday and Sunday), Hanoi (daily), and three destinations in Thailand: Bangkok (daily), Chiang Mai (daily), and Udon Thani (three times per week).

Bangkok Airways flies to Bangkok twice a day. Fares are higher than Lao Airlines, but they have a more modern fleet and passengers can wait for their boarding time in the lovely Bangkok Airways lounge.

Vietnam Airlines serves Siem Reap and Hanoi five times a week each, with added flights during peak seasons.

From the airport, a prepaid tuk tuk service into town costs a fixed price of 50,000 kip/US$6/200 baht. Similarly, from the city drivers will ask for 50,000 kip for the trip to the airport. Opposite the airport terminal is a shop with food, souvenirs, and internet access.

Lao Airlines
Manomai Rd. Office (next to Mano Guesthouse).
T: (071) 212 172.
Airport Office: (071) 212 173
http://www.laoairlines.com

Bangkok Airways
57/6 Sisavangvong Rd, Ban Xieng Mouane, Luang Prabang.
T: (071) 253 334.
Airport Office: (071) 253 253
http://www.bangkokair.com

Vietnam Airlines
Airport Office T: (071) 213 048
http://www.vietnamairlines.com