Buon Ma Thuot Airport (BMV) Guide: SH Premium Lounge

Buon Ma Thuot Airport (BMV) (also named and known as Phung-Duc Airport) is the main airport serving Buôn Ma Thuột, the capital of Đắk Lắk Province in the Central Highlands of Vietnam.

This airport functions as a key connector between Vietnam's highland region (famous for its coffee culture and landscapes) and major cities across Vietnam. BMV is situated roughly 8-10km southeast of Buôn Ma Thuột city centre, and is easily accessible by taxi, ride hailing services, or shuttle in about 15–20 minutes. BMV features a single runway and passenger terminal with facilities to support about 1 million passengers annually.

There is currently one lounge at the airport: the SH Premium Lounge (also called the Buon Ma Thuot Business Lounge). This quick guide covers all essential information regarding amenities, policies and ways you can access the lounge.

This domestic lounge is, according to its official website, a tribute by design to the essence of the basalt rich highlands. It draws inspiration from two of the region’s best known symbols: the coffee bean and traditional longhouses of the Ê Đê people (an indigenous ethnic group primarily living in the Central Highlands, also written 'Ede' or 'Rhade').

The design scheme involves warm terracotta and earthy browns, along with native plants. Seating includes padded armchairs, shared tables and wooden chairs.

Located in Main Terminal Inside Security. Domestic Departures, 1st Floor.

Open 04:55 - 21:10 daily (4:55am-9:10pm). You can stay for a maximum of 3 hours at this lounge.

Two children under 5 years old are admitted free per adult.

• TVs

• Washroom

• Buffet

• Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages

• Wi-Fi

• Charging Stations

• Flight monitors

• Work Stations

• Internet Terminals

• Showers (may be subject to additional charges)

• Shoe Polish Machine

• Newspapers and Magazines

• Flexible Day Pass:

• Other Advance Purchase Options:

  • Purchase via Lounge Pass for $19 USD per person.

  • Plaza Premium offers 3 hours access for around $20 USD per person.

  • Both of these options require you to book in advance for a specific time and date.

  • Airport Connects: Linked from the official lounge website, Airport Connects offers a direct purchase option:

    • Flex - 1 month Package: Priced at 400,000 VND for adults and for children 200,000 VND. This pass offers more flexibility, being valid for one month from the date of purchase.

• Memberships:

  • A Dragonpass membership plan will get you entry into this lounge, for a maximum 3 hour stay. You can also purchase a one-off walk-up pass for $55 USD, without a membership.

  • Priority Pass and Dreamfolks members can access this lounge as per their membership benefits.

  • Complimentary guest entitlements will depend on how you have obtained your membership with any of these programs.

• Cardholders:

  • Access is available with cards offering Priority Pass, LoungeKey, or Dragonpass memberships. Examples include:

    • Priority Pass‑linked cards like American Express Platinum and Diners Club

    • LoungeKey via eligible Mastercards.

    • Dragonpass via Visa Airport Companion (Visa Platinum/Infinite/Signature)

    • Mastercard Travel Pass

• Walk Up Access: You can purchase access at the reception desk directly.

As it's your only lounge option at BMV, the question becomes whether or not it's worthwhile purchasing access to the SH Premium Lounge compared to waiting in the terminal. Here are some things to consider:

• Buffet counter area: The buffet at the SH Premium Lounge is complimentary with access. If having food/drinks available in one spot matters to you, this may be a better idea than relying on terminal options.

• Noise and atmosphere: Lounges can feel calmer than the main waiting area, which may matter if you want a quieter place to relax.

• Best fit for working: The SH Premium Lounge has internet terminals or power outlets if you want to use your own laptop. A potentially quieter environment overall may also benefit those who need to catch up on some work.

• Your priority (comfort vs cost): If you’re mainly looking to save money, the terminal may be perfectly fine. If you value comfort and a more relaxed wait, the lounge may be worth it.

Overall, the SH Premium Lounge is a straightforward, comfortable upgrade from the main terminal at Buôn Ma Thuột Airport. With a clean, modern setup, a mix of armchair and table seating, as well as internet terminals and a complimentary buffet, it’s a solid place to reset before your flight, especially if you’re arriving early or want a quieter space to wait.