Ho Chi Minh City’s Long Thanh Airport Aims to Become Southeast Asia Hub
Vietnam’s Party General Secretary To Lam has urged swift policy measures to attract international carriers to Long Thanh International Airport, positioning it as a leading aviation hub in Southeast Asia. During a Nov. 13 field inspection, he emphasized the importance of enhancing the airport’s marketability and efficiency to draw global airlines. Long Thanh’s Phase 1 development commenced on Jan. 5, 2021, covering 1,810 hectares, and is set to handle 25 million passengers and 1.2 million tonnes of cargo annually.
The construction has seen significant progress, with key components like Runway No. 1 completed and calibration flights executed from Sept. 26 to Oct. 29. The project aims for substantial completion before Dec. 19, with commercial operations projected by mid-2026. The Party chief highlighted Long Thanh’s strategic role in boosting the national economy and regional growth.
To enhance its international appeal, the government is directed to create competitive policies regarding fees, ground services, and cargo management. There is also a call for a promotional strategy to position Long Thanh as a convenient choice for travelers and an efficient, high-quality hub for airlines. Long Thanh is expected to ease the load on Ho Chi Minh City’s nearby Tan Son Nhat Airport and enhance Vietnam’s connectivity across Southeast Asia.
Further infrastructure developments are planned to bolster links between Ho Chi Minh City, Dong Nai, and Ba Ria–Vung Tau. Upcoming projects include expressways and the Thu Thiem–Long Thanh light rail line, which will integrate with the metro network. Phase 1 plans by the Civil Aviation Authority include hosting international flights from both Long Thanh and Tan Son Nhat until 2030, transitioning all services post-2030 to make Long Thanh an airport city akin to Singapore or Amsterdam.
Vu The Phiet, Chairman of the Airports Corporation of Vietnam, outlined plans for a state-of-the-art, environmentally friendly airport meeting 5-star international standards. The design integrates energy efficiency, digital technology, and automated systems, including AI-enhanced operations and biometric check-in counters. Security enhancements include facial-recognition lanes, while the airport offers features like electric-vehicle charging stations.
Dong Nai Party Secretary Vu Hong Van revealed plans for major transport projects and a smart urban area around Long Thanh. The province also proposes a free-trade zone, extended metro lines, and a regional free-trade complex to enhance the airport’s strategic importance, reported VN Express.
Key Takeaways:
- Long Thanh Airport is set to become a major Southeast Asian hub.
- Strategic infrastructure and promotional policies are underway.
- Full international flight transition to Long Thanh expected post-2030.
Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-11-14
Source: https://aseannow.com/topic/1378829-long-thanh-airport-aims-to-become-southeast-asia-hub/
