Vietnam is moving quickly to finish Long Thanh International Airport, aiming to open its doors to the world by 2026 and become one of the largest aviation hubs by 2050. With Phase 1 Construction nearly complete, the country is betting big on this airport to boost its economy, connect more people, and change how travelers move across Asia and beyond.
Major Progress on Phase 1 Construction
As of July 30, 2025, Long Thanh International Airport is in the final stretch of its first phase. The government expects substantial completion by the end of 2025. Trial operations for the passenger terminal and other systems are set for late 2025, with commercial flights planned for the first half of 2026. The airport’s first runway finished three months ahead of schedule in April 2025, and lighting systems are ready for calibration flights. The passenger terminal’s roof and key systems, like baggage handling and security screening, are on track for completion by November 2025.
The air traffic control tower, a vital part of any airport, has reached almost 108 meters of its planned 115 meters. Full completion is expected by September 30, 2025. Other important facilities, such as radar, radio, surveillance, and weather stations, are set to be operational by August 2025. Office buildings for state agencies will be ready by December 2025, while customs and police facilities are scheduled for June 2025.
Strong Government Oversight and Collaboration
Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính is personally overseeing the project, demanding that all resources be used to meet the December 31, 2025, deadline. Weekly progress reviews and quick problem-solving are now the norm. The Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV) and international contractor IC ICTAS are working closely together, holding frequent meetings and site visits to keep everything on track and make sure advanced aviation systems are installed on time.
Investment and Project Scope
Long Thanh International Airport is a massive project. The total investment for Phase 1 is VND 336.63 trillion, or about $14.12 billion. The full project is expected to cost $18.7 billion. The airport covers 5,000 hectares, which is about 12,355 acres. When Phase 1 opens, it will be able to handle 25 million passengers and 1.2 million tonnes of cargo each year. By 2050, the airport aims to serve 100 million passengers and 5 million tonnes of cargo annually, putting it in the same league as the world’s largest airports.
Phase 1 includes two runways—one already finished and the other under construction. By 2050, there will be four runways and four passenger terminals. This growth will allow Long Thanh to join the “100 million club,” a group of only a few airports worldwide that handle over 100 million passengers each year.
Economic Impact and Regional Development
Long Thanh International Airport is more than just a place for planes to land and take off. Dong Nai province, where the airport is located, is planning a $16 billion free trade zone right next to the airport. This 8,500-hectare zone will focus on logistics, manufacturing, finance, and technology. Sectors like digital logistics, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and IT will be top priorities, with 55% of the funding coming from foreign investors. The proposal for this free trade zone is set for review by the Prime Minister in July 2025.
The area around the airport is being developed as an “airport city,” inspired by successful models in Dubai, Frankfurt, and Singapore Changi. This means the region will blend urban living, business, and logistics, making it a hub for both travel and economic activity.
Transportation Links and Infrastructure
To support the airport, several major roads are being built or improved. These include National Highway 51, the Ho Chi Minh City–Long Thanh–Dau Giay Expressway, and new ring roads. Many of these transportation links are scheduled to be finished before the airport opens, making it easier for travelers and goods to reach the airport.
The Ministry of Construction, ACV, and the Vietnam Air Traffic Management Corporation (VATM) are responsible for making sure everything is ready on time. Authorities are also working hard to keep construction materials flowing, opening new quarries and finding alternative sources to avoid delays.
Key Stakeholders and Their Roles
Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính has made it clear that Long Thanh International Airport is a top national priority. ACV Chairman Vu The Phiet is leading the project’s management, celebrating the early completion of Runway 1 and focusing on finishing the passenger terminal. IC ICTAS Chairman Fırat Çeçen has promised technical excellence and on-time delivery through close teamwork with ACV. Local leaders in Dong Nai are pushing for the free trade zone to make the most of the airport’s economic potential.
Expert Opinions and Global Perspective
According to OAG, a global aviation analytics firm, Long Thanh will join the world’s largest airports by 2050, changing how people travel in Asia and around the world. Industry experts say the project’s size and speed will transform Vietnam’s aviation sector, ease congestion at Tan Son Nhat Airport, and drive growth in the region. Only five airports worldwide currently handle more than 100 million passengers each year, and Long Thanh is expected to join this elite group within 25 years.
Timeline and What’s Next
- August 2025: Main route and technical infrastructure ready for trial operations.
- November–December 2025: Passenger terminal and key facilities completed.
- First half of 2026: Full Phase 1 operational and open for commercial flights.
Final stretch of Phase 1 construction
Expected full completion of air traffic control tower
Completion of passenger terminal and key systems
Office buildings for state agencies ready
Commercial flights planned to start
Vietnam Airlines is expected to be the main Vietnamese carrier at Long Thanh, while other airlines will stay at Tan Son Nhat for now. Trial operations are planned for late 2025, with all systems tested before the official opening.
Looking ahead, Phases 2 and 3 will increase capacity to 50 million passengers by 2035 and 100 million by 2050. This long-term plan will help Vietnam keep up with growing travel demand and strengthen its position as a global aviation hub.
Impact on Communities and Travelers
The airport and free trade zone are expected to bring big changes to southern Vietnam. These projects will attract investment, create jobs, boost tourism, and encourage urban growth. Local businesses will have more opportunities, and people living nearby may see new schools, hospitals, and services as the area develops.
However, such a large project also brings challenges. Some communities may face relocation, and there will be pressure on local infrastructure. The government and project leaders say they are working to address these issues by planning carefully and involving local people in decision-making.
Multiple Perspectives
- Government: Sees Long Thanh as a way to drive economic growth and connect Vietnam to the world.
- Industry Experts: Believe the airport will transform Vietnam’s aviation and logistics sectors.
- Local Authorities: Focus on making sure the region benefits from new jobs and business opportunities.
- Investors and Contractors: Stress the importance of technical quality and meeting deadlines.
Practical Guidance and Resources
For those interested in updates or opportunities related to Long Thanh International Airport, the Airports Corporation of Vietnam provides official information and contact details on their website. This is the best place to find the latest news, project updates, and contact information for the Long Thanh Project Management Unit.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, Long Thanh International Airport is not just an airport project—it is a symbol of Vietnam’s ambition to become a major player in global aviation. The airport’s progress shows what can be achieved with strong leadership, international cooperation, and a clear vision for the future.
Actionable Takeaways
- Travelers: Can look forward to better connections and more flight options in the coming years.
- Businesses: Should watch for new opportunities in logistics, trade, and services near the airport.
- Local Residents: May see new jobs and services, but should stay informed about changes in their communities.
- Investors: Can explore opportunities in the free trade zone and related projects.
Long Thanh International Airport’s journey from construction site to global aviation hub is well underway. With Phase 1 Construction nearly finished and a bold plan for the future, Vietnam is set to join the ranks of the world’s top aviation hubs, bringing new opportunities for people across the country and beyond.
Learn Today
Long Thanh International Airport → A major new airport in Vietnam aiming to become a global aviation hub by 2050.
Phase 1 Construction → The first stage of building Long Thanh Airport, covering initial runways and terminal facilities.
Trial Operations → Testing period before commercial flights begin to ensure airport systems function properly.
Free Trade Zone → A designated area near the airport promoting economic activity with relaxed trade regulations.
Air Traffic Control Tower → A facility that manages aircraft movement on the ground and in airspace near the airport.
This Article in a Nutshell
Vietnam’s Long Thanh Airport moves rapidly toward completion, promising to become Asia’s aviation giant by 2050. Phase 1 will open commercially in 2026, enhancing travel and commerce with strong government support and massive investment, boosting the economy and transforming regional transport infrastructure.
— By VisaVerge.com
