Strategic Shift: Transitioning International Flights to Long Thanh Airport
A New Aviation Hub on the Horizon
The ongoing transformation of Vietnam’s aviation landscape is taking a significant leap forward with the transition of all international flights from Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City to the newly under-construction Long Thanh International Airport in Dong Nai Province. This decision, announced by the Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV), is a strategic move aimed at alleviating the chronic congestion that has plagued Tan Son Nhat for years. The first flights are expected to operate from Long Thanh by mid-2026.
Addressing Congestion at Tan Son Nhat
Tan Son Nhat has long been regarded as Vietnam’s busiest airport, with operations surpassing its designed capacity. This overcrowding has led to lengthy delays and increased pressure on service quality, burdening passengers with a frustrating travel experience. The shift of international flights to Long Thanh is poised to reduce congestion significantly, allowing Tan Son Nhat to focus solely on domestic routes. It is projected that the relocation will enhance the travel experience for passengers while reducing operational difficulties.
Long Thanh Airport: A Vision for the Future
Located approximately 40 kilometers from downtown Ho Chi Minh City, Long Thanh International Airport is designed to become a central hub for air travel in the southeastern region of Vietnam. The airport will not only cater to the needs of Ho Chi Minh City but also serve travelers from surrounding areas. Besides improving operational efficiency, it aims to attract more international flights, positioning Vietnam as a key player in the global aviation market.
Improving Accessibility Through Infrastructure Development
The shift to Long Thanh Airport is reinforced by significant infrastructure investment in the region. Major projects like the expansion of the Ho Chi Minh City–Long Thanh–Dau Giay Expressway and the construction of metro lines and high-speed rail are in progress or planned. These developments promise to enhance accessibility to Long Thanh, ensuring that passengers can reach the airport easily and efficiently. The expectation is that even during peak traffic times, travel times to Long Thanh will be competitive with those to Tan Son Nhat.
Addressing Community Concerns
While the transition is set to bring numerous benefits, some residents have expressed concerns regarding the distance to Long Thanh compared to the closer Tan Son Nhat. However, ACV emphasizes that current traffic conditions often result in long travel times to Tan Son Nhat, sometimes approaching an hour during busy periods. A well-connected Long Thanh could be accessed more quickly, with an estimated travel time of 40–45 minutes under normal conditions.
Two Operational Models Under Consideration
ACV has presented two operational options for feedback regarding flight management between the two airports. The preferred model involves fully relocating all international flights to Long Thanh, with Tan Son Nhat exclusively serving domestic routes, catering to an expected passenger volume of approximately 29.5 million a year. Conversely, the second option proposes dividing operations based on flight distance, with Tan Son Nhat handling both domestic and shorter-haul international flights, while Long Thanh would manage long-haul international flights and some domestic connections.
Government Support and Future Prospects
The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam strongly supports relocating all international flights to Long Thanh to optimize resource use and simplify operational management. With Long Thanh International Airport slated for completion by the end of 2025, the groundwork is being laid for a more organized and efficient aviation environment that can handle growing passenger demand in the years to come.
The ambitious project, inspired by successful models in cities like Singapore and Seoul, is expected to not only elevate the travel experience in Vietnam but also bolster economic growth in the region by solidifying Long Thanh’s status as a key international gateway.