Vietnam's Largest Airport Is Coming - What Travelers Need to Know

Last Updated: Wednesday, August 5, 2026

If you're planning to visit Vietnam in late 2026 or beyond, you've probably heard about Long Thanh Airport, Vietnam's largest aviation project and one of Southeast Asia's most ambitious airport developments. As construction enters its final phase, many international travelers are wondering whether their flights will still arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport or be transferred to the new airport.

The good news is that there is no need to change your travel plans immediately. According to official announcements, the transition will happen gradually rather than all at once. However, as airlines begin adjusting their schedules, checking your arrival airport before departure will become more important than ever.

This Long Thanh Airport guide for foreign travelers explains what to expect, when flights are expected to move, and how you can prepare for a smooth arrival in Vietnam.

 Source: Internet

Long Thanh Airport: Vietnam's New International Gateway

Long Thanh Airport is being developed to ease congestion at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, which has operated near capacity for many years due to the rapid growth of tourism and international business travel.

Once fully completed, Long Thanh Airport is expected to handle up to 100 million passengers annually, making it one of the largest airports in Southeast Asia and Vietnam's future international aviation hub.

For international visitors, this means Ho Chi Minh City will eventually be served by two major international airports. During the transition period, some flights will continue operating from Tan Son Nhat while others gradually move to Long Thanh Airport, depending on airline schedules and government planning.

Official Long Thanh Airport Opening Date

According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV), the current Long Thanh Airport opening date for commercial operations is December 2026.

However, this does not mean every international flight will move immediately.

Instead, airlines are expected to relocate selected international routes in several phases throughout late 2026 and 2027. Tan Son Nhat International Airport will continue operating alongside Long Thanh Airport until the transition is completed.

For travelers, the most important advice is simple: always check your flight itinerary before departure rather than assuming your arrival airport will remain the same as previous trips.

How Could This Affect Your Arrival in Vietnam?

Although Vietnam's immigration procedures will remain unchanged, arriving at a different airport may affect your overall travel experience.

Unlike Tan Son Nhat Airport, Long Thanh Airport is located approximately 40 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City. As a result, travel times to the city center may be longer, especially during busy traffic periods.

If this is your first visit to Vietnam, planning your transportation before departure can save considerable time after landing. Many travelers now choose to pre-book an Airport service Vietnam service instead of searching for transportation upon arrival.

Booking an Airport service Vietnam service offers several advantages, including fixed pricing, professional drivers, flight tracking, and direct transportation to your hotel without waiting in taxi queues.

Make Your Arrival Easier with Premium Airport Services

As Vietnam's airport system continues to expand, planning ahead has become increasingly important.

Whether you arrive at Tan Son Nhat or Long Thanh Airport, premium airport services can make your journey significantly more comfortable.

With Vietnam Airport Fast Track Service, professional airport staff will greet you upon arrival, assist you through immigration procedures, and help you access the priority immigration lane where available. This service is particularly valuable for first-time visitors, business travelers, families with children, and passengers with connecting flights.

To complete your journey, you can also pre-book an Airport Vietnam service, ensuring a professional driver is waiting when you exit the terminal. Together with a Vietnam tourist eSIM, these services allow you to begin your trip with confidence and avoid unnecessary delays.

Key Takeaways

• Long Thanh Airport is expected to begin commercial operations in December 2026.

• The Long Thanh Airport opening date does not mean all international flights will move immediately.

• Both Tan Son Nhat and Long Thanh Airport will operate simultaneously during the transition period.

• Always confirm your arrival airport with your airline before departure.

• Booking Airport service Vietnam and Vietnam Airport Fast Track services can help ensure a smoother arrival experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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