Yangon International Airport

Yangon International Airport (IATA: RGN, ICAO: VYYY) is the primary international airport serving Yangon, the largest city and major commercial hub of Myanmar. Located in Mingaladon Township, approximately 15 kilometres north of downtown Yangon, the airport is the busiest and most important gateway for travellers entering and leaving the country. It handles millions of passengers annually and supports a wide range of domestic and international routes across Asia and the Middle East.

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History

Yangon International Airport was originally constructed during the Second World War and later repurposed for civil aviation. Throughout the late 20th century and early 21st century, increasing tourism and economic activity in Myanmar resulted in multiple renovation programmes. Major upgrades included the construction of modern terminals, new navigation systems, expanded runways, and improved passenger facilities. These developments significantly enhanced the airport’s handling capacity and international connectivity.

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Location

Yangon International Airport is situated in:

• Mingaladon Township, Yangon, Myanmar
• 15 km from Yangon city centre
• Well connected to major city districts via road and public transport

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Terminals

Terminal 1 (International Terminal)

Terminal 1 handles many of the airport’s international carriers. It offers:

• Spacious check-in hall
• Immigration and customs facilities
• Duty-free shopping
• Restaurants and cafés
• Lounges and multiple boarding gates

Terminal 2 (International Terminal)

Terminal 2 supports international operations and accommodates additional global airlines. Key features include:

• Full-service check-in counters
• Air-conditioned waiting lounges
• Retail stores and travel service desks
• Food and beverage outlets

Terminal 3 (Domestic Terminal)

Dedicated to domestic travel, Terminal 3 serves flights to Myanmar’s major cities and regional destinations. Facilities include:

• Check-in desks for local airlines
• Small shops and convenience stores
• Seating areas and essential passenger services

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Airlines and Destinations

International Airlines

Major airlines operating to and from Yangon include:

• Myanmar Airways International
• Thai Airways
• Malaysia Airlines
• Singapore Airlines (via SilkAir/Scoot services)
• AirAsia
• Korean Air
• China Southern Airlines
• Qatar Airways
• IndiGo
• Vietnam Airlines

Domestic Airlines

• Myanmar National Airlines
• Air KBZ
• Mann Yadanarpon Airlines
• Golden Myanmar Airlines

Popular International Routes

Yangon connects to key hubs such as Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Doha, Seoul, Guangzhou, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Delhi.

Popular Domestic Routes

Frequent services are available to Mandalay, Naypyidaw, Bagan, Heho (Inle Lake), Thandwe (Ngapali Beach), Kengtung, and Dawei.

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Airport Facilities

Passenger Amenities

• Free Wi-Fi across terminals
• ATMs and currency exchange counters
• Medical centre and emergency assistance
• Lost and found services
• Baggage wrapping stations
• Prayer rooms
• Information desks in arrival and departure halls

Shopping and Dining

Travellers have access to:

• Duty-free shops offering perfumes, electronics, alcohol, and souvenirs
• Local and international restaurants
• Coffee shops and bakeries
• Convenience stores with travel essentials

Lounges

Yangon International Airport hosts several lounges including:

• MAI Lounge
• Royal Jade Lounge
• Partner lounges for premium passengers

Parking

• Short-term and long-term parking zones
• Separate parking facilities for each terminal
• Designated spaces for taxis, private cars, and coaches

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Runways

The airport operates:

• Runway 03/21 — 3,414 metres in length
• Equipped with modern lighting, ILS systems, and safety markings
• Capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft such as Boeing 777 and Airbus A330

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Transportation and Connectivity

Taxi

Taxis are readily available outside each terminal.

• Travel time to city: 30–45 minutes
• Prepaid taxi counters ensure fixed pricing

Ride-Hailing Services

Grab and other local ride-hailing apps operate at the airport.

• Convenient pick-up points
• Digital and cash payment options

Public Bus

The Yangon Bus Service (YBS) connects the airport to major city areas.

• Budget-friendly option
• Routes extend to Downtown Yangon, Hledan, and Bahan

Car Rentals

Rental companies provide both self-driven and chauffeur-driven vehicles.

• Available at arrival halls
• Advanced bookings recommended for peak tourism seasons

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Nearby Hotels

Several hotels are located near the airport or accessible within a short drive:

• Melia Yangon
• Novotel Yangon Max
• Best Western Chinatown Hotel
• Jasmine Palace Hotel
  Many offer shuttle services on request.

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Tips for Travellers

• Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international departures.
• Keep multiple photocopies of passports and visas due to Myanmar’s immigration requirements.
• SIM cards with data plans are available at arrival counters.
• Currency exchange rates may be more favourable in the city than at the airport.

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Future Development

Planned expansion projects include:

• Upgraded runway systems
• Expansion of terminal facilities
• Enhanced digital immigration and security screening
• Improved transportation links connecting the airport to Yangon’s central business district

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Conclusion

Yangon International Airport serves as Myanmar’s principal international gateway, welcoming travellers with improving facilities, better connectivity, and enhanced services. Its strategic location, upgraded terminals, and expanding flight network make it an essential hub for both domestic and international travel within Myanmar and across Southeast Asia.