Overview

Vietnam’s Long Thanh International Airport is set to commence operations in June, aimed at alleviating congestion from Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat International Airport. The airport is crucial for accommodating the increasing number of foreign travelers, which surged over 20% towards the end of 2025.

Airport Capacity and Economic Impact

Projected to manage 25 million passengers and 1.2 million tons of cargo annually in its initial phase, Long Thanh is expected to become a significant pillar for Vietnam’s aviation and tourism sectors. The project cost is roughly $16 billion, covering 5,000 hectares—a footprint comparable to Heathrow Airport in London.

Potential Benefits of Long Thanh’s Opening

1. Easing congestion at Ho Chi Minh City’s airport.
2. Enhanced flight punctuality, customer service, and scheduling flexibility for both domestic and international flights.
3. Economic growth through increased tourism and trade opportunities for the local Dong Nai community, including job creation.

Challenges Ahead

While the development brings potential benefits, several challenges may arise:

• Delays in construction or funding allocation may hinder airport operations.
• Traffic management in southern Ho Chi Minh City could complicate transfers.
• Uncertainty regarding which airlines will transition from Tan Son Nhat Airport to Long Thanh.
• A lack of consensus among authorities regarding operational strategies.

Conclusion

Despite potential setbacks, once operational, Long Thanh International Airport is poised to significantly enhance Vietnam’s tourism landscape and overall economic growth.