Vietnam’s Sets New Benchmark in Aviation Infrastructure with Long Thanh International Airport Poised to Transform the Nation’s Aviation Landscape and Boost Connectivity

Published on December 12, 2025

Vietnam’s Long Thanh International Airport is set to be a game-changer in the aviation sector, positioning the country as a rising leader in regional connectivity and global aviation competitiveness. With state-of-the-art technology, comprehensive infrastructure, and strategic planning, the airport is designed to meet the growing demands of both domestic and international air travel. As Vietnam prepares to launch one of its most ambitious infrastructure projects, Long Thanh promises to redefine the travel experience, enhancing capacity and operational efficiency while serving as a vital hub for the region’s expanding aviation network. This transformative development underscores Vietnam’s commitment to advancing its aviation industry and fostering economic growth through improved global connectivity.

Vietnam is making substantial progress toward the operational readiness of Long Thanh International Airport, as the Vietnam Air Traffic Management Corporation (VATM) has confirmed that all essential systems, equipment, and staffing are now in place ahead of the upcoming technical test flights, scheduled from December 15 to 19.

According to VATM, critical systems that support flight operations, such as communications, navigation, surveillance, meteorology, and automated messaging, have been deployed and thoroughly tested. These systems have been designed to ensure that Long Thanh can operate smoothly and efficiently, 24/7, with full backup solutions for all essential components. The engineering team has worked diligently to ensure that the infrastructure adheres to multilayer safety standards, guaranteeing the stability and reliability of operations.

On the airfield, several key pieces of infrastructure have been completed, including runway 23L/05R, taxiway B, and connecting taxiways. These facilities have been cleared and are now ready to handle aircraft movements, ensuring Long Thanh can meet operational demands during the test flights. The completion of this work marks a significant step forward in preparing the airport for its full-scale operations.

In collaboration with Boeing, VATM has also refined flight procedures for Long Thanh, ensuring seamless integration with nearby Tan Son Nhat and Bien Hoa airports. These procedures, which have been reviewed and approved by the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV), are now ready for immediate implementation. This integration is crucial for Long Thanh to function as part of the region’s broader air transport network.

The upcoming technical test flights will see aircraft performing departures, approaches, and landings to validate the ability of Long Thanh to handle simultaneous operations with Tan Son Nhat and Bien Hoa airports. This will be a vital step in confirming that the airport is ready to manage operations between the region’s two main aviation hubs, ensuring safety and efficiency.

To meet the highest standards of safety and operational efficiency, air traffic controllers, technicians, meteorologists, and rescue teams have all undergone extensive training. This training was conducted based on updated operations manuals that align with the latest standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the Civil Air Navigation Services Organization (CANSO). The training covered a variety of scenarios, from regular operations to emergency situations, ensuring the teams are fully prepared for any challenges that may arise.

Emergency response scenarios, including communication failures, aircraft malfunctions, unlawful interference, and diversions to Tan Son Nhat, have been meticulously rehearsed. The training emphasized the importance of close coordination between Long Thanh and Tan Son Nhat airports to ensure smooth operations, particularly during critical situations. The teams have demonstrated their ability to respond efficiently and effectively to these emergencies.

In addition to the training, CAAV inspectors recently conducted simulation exercises with Long Thanh’s controllers. These exercises tested the controllers’ responses to a range of scenarios, including adverse weather conditions, navigation-system failures, and aircraft emergencies. Following these exercises, officials have expressed confidence in the performance of the controllers, praising their teamwork, preparedness, and ability to handle complex situations.

One of the most striking features of Long Thanh International Airport is its newly constructed air traffic control tower, designed to resemble a lotus. Standing at an impressive height of 123 meters, the tower is one of the standout features of the airport’s infrastructure. Along with the tower, the airport also boasts several key facilities, including radar stations, VHF transmitters, ADS-B surveillance systems, weather radar, VOR/DME navigation systems, and wind-shear warning equipment. These facilities are spread across a vast 70,000 square-meter area, ensuring the airport is equipped to handle a wide range of operations.

The progress made in preparing Long Thanh International Airport represents a critical milestone for Vietnam as it moves closer to completing one of its most ambitious infrastructure projects. Once fully operational, Long Thanh will significantly enhance the country’s aviation capabilities, offering improved capacity and connectivity for both domestic and international flights. The airport is poised to play a key role in the continued growth of Vietnam’s aviation industry, making it a vital part of the nation’s economic future.

Vietnam’s Long Thanh International Airport is set to revolutionize the country’s aviation sector with cutting-edge technology and enhanced regional connectivity. This ambitious project aims to boost Vietnam’s global competitiveness and transform the travel experience for both domestic and international passengers.

As Vietnam prepares to launch one of its most ambitious infrastructure projects, the operational readiness of Long Thanh International Airport signifies the country’s growing capabilities in the aviation sector. With the infrastructure in place and the test flights just around the corner, Long Thanh is set to become a cornerstone of Vietnam’s transportation network, offering enhanced services and connectivity for travelers. The completion of this project marks a new chapter for the nation’s aviation industry, positioning it as a key player in the region’s air transport network.