Yangon International Airport
Yangon International Airport is not the largest airport in Myanmar, but is the busiest in terms of air traffic. The newly constructed Naypyidaw International Airport in the capital is actually larger in size, but services fewer flights. Mandalay International Airport is quickly growing into a major international hub, recently adding connections to Chiang Mai and Bangkok on Air Asia.
Most international travelers will arrive in Myanmar via Yangon. Located roughly 30 minutes north of the city, the airport caters to both international and domestic travelers at two terminals. The international terminal is relatively new, opened just in 2007, and offers all the basic amenities. The domestic terminal dates back to the 1940s and is old with few facilities. Visitors should not rely on shopping or good eating at the airport.
Since Myanmar political policies are ever changing, the number of airlines and flights into Yangon are constantly changing. Currently, 27 airlines (both domestic and international) fly in and out of the airport. Most connections are to major cities in Asia such as Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, and Tokyo primarily on ANA, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airlines, Vietnam Airlines, and China Airlines. However, new flights to Europe are planned and depending on the government, direct flights to North America may also be added.
Transportation options are limited to taxis and buses at the airport. Taxis are cheap and an easy transportation option, but fares need to be agreed upon before departing. Buses are only slightly less expensive, but can be complicated to figure out. Most hotels will arrange airport pick-ups.
Visitors should note that there is a US $10 departure tax per person, which needs to be paid in cash.