Vietnam’s Mega-Airport Long Thanh Welcomes Its First Passenger Flights

Last Update: Monday February 02, 2026

Vietnam has reached a major milestone in aviation with Long Thanh International Airport officially welcoming its first commercial passenger flights. Designed to become one of Southeast Asia’s largest and most modern airports, Long Thanh marks a new era for Vietnam’s air connectivity, tourism growth, and economic development.

This article explores what the airport launch means, its advantages and challenges, how it impacts travelers, and what to expect next.

Long Thanh International Airport: A New Aviation Landmark

What Is Long Thanh Airport?

Long Thanh International Airport is Vietnam’s newest mega-airport, located in Dong Nai Province, approximately 40–50 km from Ho Chi Minh City. It is intended to replace and relieve congestion at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, which has been operating beyond its designed capacity.

The airport is planned to become a regional aviation hub, competing with major airports like Singapore Changi, Bangkok Suvarnabhumi, and Seoul Incheon.

Photo: Collected

First Commercial Flight Milestone

The first passenger flights represent a historic step in Long Thanh’s phased rollout. This soft launch allows aviation authorities and airlines to:

• Test real-world operations

• Fine-tune passenger services

• Evaluate security, immigration, and baggage systems

• Gradually scale up flight volume

This milestone signals that Long Thanh is transitioning from a construction project to a functioning international gateway.

Key Features of Long Thanh Airport

Modern Infrastructure and Passenger Experience

Long Thanh is designed with cutting-edge airport technology and passenger comfort in mind, including:

• Smart check-in and automated immigration

• Large-capacity runways for wide-body aircraft

• Spacious terminals with natural lighting

• Retail, dining, and premium lounge areas

• High-tech baggage handling systems

Its design prioritizes efficiency, sustainability, and a global-standard passenger experience.

Capacity and Long-Term Vision

Once fully completed, Long Thanh Airport is expected to handle:

• Up to 100 million passengers per year

• Millions of tons of cargo annually

• A high volume of long-haul international routes

This positions Vietnam to become a regional transit hub, attracting more airlines, cargo carriers, and foreign investment.

Advantages of Long Thanh Airport

1. Reduced Congestion at Tan Son Nhat

Tan Son Nhat Airport has long suffered from overcrowding, delays, and infrastructure limits. Long Thanh will:

• Shift international flights away from SGN

• Reduce passenger bottlenecks

• Improve overall flight punctuality

Photo: Collected

2. Boost to Tourism and Business

With increased capacity and global connectivity, Long Thanh will:

• Attract more international tourists

• Support business travel and foreign investors

• Strengthen Vietnam’s position in global aviation

3. Faster and More Comfortable Travel Experience

Travelers can expect:

• Shorter wait times

• More efficient immigration processing

• Better terminal comfort and amenities

• Improved on-time performance

4. Economic and Regional Development

The airport is expected to generate:

• Thousands of jobs

• New logistics and aviation-related industries

• Infrastructure growth in Dong Nai and the surrounding areas

Challenges and Disadvantages

1. Distance from Ho Chi Minh City

Long Thanh’s biggest drawback is its distance from downtown HCMC, which may cause:

• Longer travel times to the airport

• Higher transportation costs

• Need for better expressway and rail connections

2. Transition Period Confusion

During early operations:

• Some flights remain at Tan Son Nhat

• Passengers may be unsure which airport to use

• Airlines may shift routes gradually

Clear communication and planning will be essential.

3. Infrastructure Still Expanding

Although passenger flights have begun, not all facilities are fully operational yet, meaning services will continue improving over time.

What Travelers Should Expect

For International Travelers

• Potential new long-haul and direct routes

• Improved airport comfort and efficiency

• Opportunity for smoother transit experiences

If you’re planning to travel to Vietnam, ensure your visa and entry approval are processed in advance to avoid delays.

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For Airlines and Aviation Industry

Long Thanh offers airlines:

• Expanded flight slots

• Larger aircraft accommodation

• Hub potential for Southeast Asia routes

This could reshape airline strategies across the region.

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