Traveling from Tan Son Nhat International Airport to downtown Ho Chi Minh City doesn’t have to be expensive. Airport Bus 109 is an affordable transportation option connecting the airport’s new Terminal 3 with Saigon Bus Station near September 23 Park in District 1.
Operated by Phuong Trang (FUTA Bus Lines), this airport bus service offers air-conditioned electric buses, free Wi-Fi, and a convenient connection between the airport and central Ho Chi Minh City. It is particularly useful for international visitors staying around Pham Ngu Lao, Ben Thanh Market, and other popular areas in District 1.
Airport Bus 109: Essential Information
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Bus number | 109 |
| Route | Saigon Bus Station – Tan Son Nhat Airport Terminal 3 |
| Operator | Phuong Trang (FUTA Bus Lines) |
| Bus type | Electric bus |
| Ticket price | 15,000 VND per person |
| Operating hours | Approximately 5:30 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Frequency | Approximately every 40–45 minutes |
| Journey time | Approximately 45 minutes |
| Route distance | Approximately 9.3 km |
| Airport terminal | Terminal 3 only |
| City departure point | Saigon Bus Station, District 1 |
Schedules and fares are subject to change. Check the latest information with the bus operator before traveling.
What Is Airport Bus 109?
Airport Bus 109 is a public transportation service connecting Tan Son Nhat International Airport with central Ho Chi Minh City. The route was originally introduced on September 13, 2022, and operated by Phuong Trang (FUTA Bus Lines).
On April 28, 2025, the route was officially adjusted to connect directly with the airport’s new Terminal 3. The updated service introduced electric buses and provided a more convenient transportation link between the city center and the new airport terminal.
Unlike private airport transfers, Bus 109 operates on a fixed route with designated stops. It is an economical choice for travelers who don’t mind using public transportation and walking or taking another vehicle to reach their hotels.
The buses feature air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, electronic information displays, and modern payment facilities.
Bus 109 Route: Tan Son Nhat Airport to District 1
Bus 109 connects Terminal 3 at Tan Son Nhat International Airport with Saigon Bus Station, located near September 23 Park in District 1.
From Saigon Bus Station to Tan Son Nhat Airport
Saigon Bus Station – Pham Ngu Lao Street – Yersin Street – Tran Hung Dao Street – Ham Nghi Street – Pasteur Street – Vo Thi Sau Street – Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street – Nguyen Van Troi Street – Phan Dinh Giot Street – Phan Thuc Duyen Street – 18E Street – Tan Son Nhat International Airport Terminal 3.
From Tan Son Nhat Airport to Saigon Bus Station
Tan Son Nhat International Airport Terminal 3 – C2 Street – Hoang Hoa Tham Street – Cong Hoa Street – Hoang Van Thu Street – Nguyen Van Troi Street – Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street – Ham Nghi Street – Le Lai Street – Saigon Bus Station.
The entire route covers approximately 9.3 kilometers, with an average journey time of around 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Bus 109 Operating Hours and Ticket Prices in 2026
Bus 109 operates daily between Tan Son Nhat Airport Terminal 3 and Saigon Bus Station. The currently published schedule indicates the following approximate service hours:
| Direction | Operating Hours |
|---|---|
| Terminal 3 to Saigon Bus Station | 5:30 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Saigon Bus Station to Terminal 3 | Approximately 5:45 AM – 10:15 PM |
Buses are currently reported to depart approximately every 40–45 minutes. The journey takes around 45 minutes, although traffic congestion may increase travel time.
How Much Does Bus 109 Cost?
The regular published ticket price for Bus 109 is approximately 15,000 VND per passenger for a one-way journey.
Ho Chi Minh City introduced a free-bus program covering 134 routes from July 1 through December 31, 2026. However, airport connection services are excluded from this program, so Bus 109 is not covered by the general fare exemption.
For the latest fare and payment information, check with FUTA Bus Lines before boarding.
Where to Catch Bus 109 at Tan Son Nhat Airport
One important thing to remember is that Bus 109 now serves Terminal 3 rather than the older airport terminals.
Terminal 3 – Domestic Flights
Passengers arriving at Terminal 3 can follow the airport signs directing them to the public bus boarding area outside the terminal. Look for the designated Bus 109 stop.
Terminal 1 – Domestic Flights
Bus 109 does not stop directly at Terminal 1. Passengers arriving at this terminal should use the airport’s free inter-terminal shuttle to reach Terminal 3 or check the available public bus services from Terminal 1.
Terminal 2 – International Flights
International passengers arriving at Terminal 2 also need to transfer to Terminal 3 to catch Bus 109. Follow the airport’s shuttle bus signs and allow additional time for the terminal transfer.
Where to Catch Bus 109 in District 1
The city departure point is Saigon Bus Station (Ben Xe Buyt Sai Gon), located near September 23 Park on Pham Ngu Lao Street.
This location is convenient for visitors staying in the backpacker area and other parts of central District 1.
Popular nearby destinations include:
- Pham Ngu Lao Street: A popular area with budget hotels, hostels, restaurants, and travel agencies.
- Bui Vien Walking Street: A lively nightlife destination with bars, restaurants, and entertainment.
- September 23 Park: A green public space in the heart of District 1.
- Ben Thanh Market: A famous market selling souvenirs, clothing, local products, and Vietnamese food.
- Nguyen Hue Walking Street: A popular pedestrian street in central Ho Chi Minh City.
From Saigon Bus Station, you can walk or take a short Grab ride to many hotels in the downtown area.
Bus 109 Facilities and Passenger Services
Bus 109 uses modern electric buses designed to provide a comfortable journey between the airport and the city center.
Passenger facilities include:
- Air conditioning: Helps passengers stay comfortable in Ho Chi Minh City’s tropical weather.
- Free Wi-Fi: Allows passengers to access the internet during the journey.
- Electronic information displays: Provide route and passenger information.
- Modern payment options: Supports available electronic payment methods.
- Electric vehicles: Helps reduce local emissions and noise compared with conventional diesel buses.
Travel Tips for Taking Bus 109
If you are visiting Ho Chi Minh City for the first time, these tips can help make your airport transfer easier.
- Check your arrival terminal: Bus 109 serves Terminal 3 only. International flights arriving at Terminal 2 require a transfer.
- Allow enough travel time: The journey takes approximately 45 minutes, but traffic congestion can cause delays.
- Check the timetable: Bus 109 does not operate 24 hours a day. Arrange alternative transportation if you arrive late at night.
- Prepare your payment: The regular fare is approximately 15,000 VND. Check the operator’s current payment options.
- Travel with manageable luggage: Check luggage restrictions with the operator if you are carrying large suitcases.
- Keep your belongings safe: Keep your phone, passport, wallet, and other valuables secure during the journey.
Alternatives to Bus 109
If Bus 109 does not match your arrival time or destination, you can consider several other transportation options from Tan Son Nhat Airport.
Bus 152
Bus 152 is a regular public bus connecting the airport with the Trung Son residential area via Ben Thanh. It is an alternative for passengers traveling from the older airport terminals.
- Route: Trung Son Residential Area – Ben Thanh – Tan Son Nhat Airport.
- Operating hours: Check the current timetable before traveling.
- Ticket price: Check the current fare with the operator.
Grab and Airport Taxis
Grab and official airport taxis are convenient options for passengers who want to travel directly to their hotels without changing vehicles.
They are particularly useful for families, groups, and travelers carrying several suitcases. Prices vary depending on the destination, traffic conditions, and demand.
Use the official Grab application or designated airport taxi stands. Always confirm your destination and vehicle details before departure.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How much is the Bus 109 ticket from Tan Son Nhat Airport?
The currently reported regular fare is 15,000 VND per passenger for a one-way journey. The fare should be confirmed with the operator before boarding.
2. What time does Bus 109 start operating?
The reported first departure from Terminal 3 is approximately 5:30 AM. The service from Saigon Bus Station starts at approximately 5:45 AM.
3. What time is the last Bus 109 from the airport?
The currently published schedule indicates that the last departure from Terminal 3 is approximately 10:00 PM. Check the latest timetable before your flight.
4. Does Bus 109 go to Terminal 2?
No. Since April 28, 2025, Bus 109 has served Terminal 3 instead of Terminals 1 and 2. Passengers arriving at Terminal 2 should use the airport shuttle to transfer to Terminal 3.
5. How long does Bus 109 take to reach District 1?
The journey takes approximately 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
6. Where does Bus 109 stop in District 1?
The route terminates at Saigon Bus Station near September 23 Park in District 1, close to the Pham Ngu Lao backpacker area.
7. Is Bus 109 free in Ho Chi Minh City in 2026?
No. The city’s free-bus program excludes airport connection services. The regular reported fare for Bus 109 is 15,000 VND per passenger.
8. Does Bus 109 have air conditioning and Wi-Fi?
Yes. The electric buses operating on this route are equipped with air conditioning and free Wi-Fi.
Conclusion
Airport Bus 109 is an affordable and practical way to travel between Tan Son Nhat International Airport Terminal 3 and central Ho Chi Minh City. With modern electric buses, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a regular fare of approximately 15,000 VND, it offers a convenient alternative to private airport transfers.
However, remember that Bus 109 now serves Terminal 3 only. If your flight arrives at Terminal 1 or Terminal 2, you will need to transfer between terminals before boarding.
For travelers staying around Pham Ngu Lao, September 23 Park, and District 1, Bus 109 is worth considering. Just check the latest departure times and ticket information before leaving the airport.
Partners: Journey On Air – Paradise Cruises – Airscanner – Eden Resort – Worldle – Hoi An Memories – Water Puppet Show Ho Chi Minh