Shaping Vietnam’s Future! A Comprehensive Look at Long Thanh International Airport and Its Economic Impact
目次
1. Introduction
Long Thanh International Airport, currently under construction in Dong Nai Province, southern Vietnam, is expected to become a new hub airport in Southeast Asia. Scheduled to open in 2026, it is projected to facilitate the movement of approximately 70,000 passengers daily to and from Ho Chi Minh City. This article explores the details and potential impact of Long Thanh Airport.
2. Overview of Long Thanh International Airport
2.1 Background and Purpose of Construction
Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City is currently operating far beyond its intended capacity, handling over 50 million passengers annually despite being designed for only 25 million. To alleviate congestion and enhance Vietnam’s international aviation network, the government decided to construct Long Thanh International Airport in Dong Nai Province.
2.2 Basic Design and Development Plan
Long Thanh Airport is planned to become a large-scale international airport capable of handling over 100 million passengers annually upon full completion.
- Phase 1 (Completion in 2026): Construction of a terminal with a capacity of 25 million passengers per year.
- Phase 2 (Expected by 2035): Expansion to accommodate 50 million passengers per year.
- Phase 3 (By 2050): Full-scale operation targeting over 100 million passengers annually.
- Runways: A total of four runways planned.
- Total Investment: Approximately $16 billion USD.
3. The Impact of Long Thanh Airport
3.1 Access to Ho Chi Minh City and Infrastructure Development
Upon opening, Long Thanh Airport will require enhanced connectivity with Ho Chi Minh City. The government is currently expanding the Ho Chi Minh – Long Thanh – Dau Giay Expressway and considering a new railway construction to accommodate the projected 70,000 daily passengers.
- Urban Rail Plan: A direct rail link between Ho Chi Minh City and Long Thanh Airport.
- Expressway Expansion: Reducing travel time between the city and the airport.
3.2 Contribution to Economic Development
The completion of Long Thanh Airport will have a significant impact on Vietnam’s economy.
- Strengthening International Business Hubs: Commercial facilities and logistics centers near the airport will enhance Vietnam’s position as a trade hub.
- Job Creation: The airport’s construction and operation will generate tens of thousands of jobs.
- Growth in Tourism: Improved accessibility will attract more tourists, boosting the hospitality and tourism industries in Ho Chi Minh City and surrounding areas.
3.3 Advancement of the Airport City Concept
The Dong Nai provincial government aims to develop Long Thanh Airport beyond just an aviation facility into an “aerotropolis” (airport city).
- Urban Development Around the Airport: Construction of luxury hotels, shopping malls, restaurants, and business centers.
- Investment Attraction: Encouraging foreign companies to establish business operations in the region.
4. Challenges and Future Prospects
4.1 Delayed Infrastructure Development
The lack of sufficient transportation infrastructure between Long Thanh Airport and Ho Chi Minh City is a major challenge. While the government is prioritizing road and railway projects, delays remain a concern.
4.2 Addressing Environmental Issues
As a large-scale construction project, the airport raises environmental concerns. Sustainable development and eco-friendly airport operations will be necessary.
4.3 Securing Investment Funding
With an estimated cost of $16 billion USD, financial support from not only the government but also private companies and international institutions will be essential.
5. Conclusion
Long Thanh International Airport is set to transform Vietnam’s aviation infrastructure, serving as a major hub for international business and tourism. Once operational in 2026, it is expected to strengthen connectivity with Ho Chi Minh City and drive Vietnam’s economic growth.
As developments progress, the completion of Long Thanh Airport will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Vietnam!
