Vietnam's Long Thanh Airport to Shift Long-Haul Flights, Impacting U.S. Travel

What's Happening?

Vietnam's Long Thanh International Airport (LTH) is set to commence technical flights on December 19, 2025, with a full operational launch planned for June 2026. The Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV) aims to transfer all long-haul services from the overcrowded Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City to LTH, establishing it as the primary international gateway for the country. Initially, LTH will handle flights from Europe, India, the Middle East, and North America, with plans to expand to Northeast Asia by 2027. Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air are expected to be the main operators, with Vietjet also planning a maintenance facility. Cargo operators like FedEx and UPS have shown interest in the new airport. LTH will start with a capacity of 2.6 million passengers, expanding to 15 million by 2027, with long-term plans for four terminals accommodating 100 million passengers.

Why It's Important?

The shift of long-haul flights to Long Thanh International Airport is significant for U.S. travelers and businesses. It positions LTH as a major hub for international travel, potentially increasing connectivity between the U.S. and Vietnam. This development could enhance trade and tourism, benefiting airlines and cargo operators like FedEx and UPS. The expansion of LTH is also expected to alleviate congestion at Tan Son Nhat Airport, improving travel efficiency. The involvement of major airlines and cargo companies indicates strong industry support, which could lead to increased competition and better services for passengers and businesses.

What's Next?

As the project progresses, infrastructure upgrades, including road expansions and a high-speed rail link to Ho Chi Minh City, are underway to support the airport's operations. The Vietnamese government is pushing for completion by the end of 2025, with ACV working closely with contractors to meet this deadline. The successful launch of LTH could prompt further investments in Vietnam's aviation sector, potentially attracting more international carriers and boosting the country's economic growth.