Economy

Vietnam's Long Thanh International Airport Set to Elevate Asia's Aviation Landscape by 2050

Asia's Next Aviation Giant

According to OAG, a U.K.-based organization specializing in travel and aviation data analysis, Long Thanh International Airport is among the select few airports projected to join the global mega airports club, boasting a capacity of 100 million passengers. This elite group includes Singapore's Changi Airport, Hong Kong International Airport, Thailand's Suvarnabhumi Airport, South Korea's Incheon International Airport, and a new airport in the Philippines.

Construction of Long Thanh International Airport in Dong Nai Province, southern Vietnam. Photo by VnExpress/Phuoc Tuan

Phased Development for Future Growth

The first phase of Long Thanh International Airport, located in the southern province of Dong Nai and 40 kilometers from HCMC, is nearing completion, with operations scheduled to commence next year. The VND336 trillion (US$13.38 billion) project will initially accommodate 25 million passengers and 1.2 million tons of cargo annually.

By 2035, Phase 2 will introduce a second runway and terminal, expanding the airport's capacity to 50 million passengers and 1.5 million tons of cargo. The final phase, targeting completion by 2050, will see the airport reach its full designed capacity of 100 million passengers and five million tons of cargo.

A Strategic Asset for Vietnam and Asia

Asian governments recognize these aviation hubs as pivotal to attracting investments, stimulating tourism, and creating jobs. Long Thanh International Airport exemplifies this vision, incorporating advanced technologies like biometrics, AI, and sustainable solutions to ensure scalable growth while enhancing passenger experience and operational efficiency.