Lao Airlines in Luang Prabang International Airport

Lao Airlines in Luang Prabang International Airport

Lao Airlines (212172; Th Pha Mahapatsaman) operates at least three daily flights between Luang Prabang and Vientiane (one way/return US$62/118, 40 minutes), plus flights to Pakse (one way/return US$135/258, Monday and Thursday) and Phonsavan (one way/return US$40/70, Wednesday, Friday and ­Saturday).

It’s wise to confirm your flight the day before departure. Lao Airlines in Luang Prabang accepts credit cards and can book flights on THAI (between Laos and Thailand only). Most travel agents also book domestic and international flights.

Don’t forget that you’ll need to pay US$1/10 for domestic/international flights at the airport. It’s an airport tax that isn’t included in your ticket.

When flying into Luang Prabang, try to get a window seat – as the plane descends over the mountains in preparation for landing the view of the town is excellent.

The Luang Prabang International Airport (212173), 4km from the city centre, has a restaurant, Lao Airlines (212173) and Bangkok Air (253 253) offices, phonecard telephone, post office, exchange booth, a branch of Lao Development Bank, and an air-conditioned departure lounge.