Long Thanh International Airport: The Final Sprint Before Its Maiden Flight

“Conquering the Sun, Overcoming the Rain, Unyielding Against the Storm”

In late November, Tiền Phong journalists visited the Long Thành International Airport construction site to capture the bustling atmosphere as the first technical flight approaches.

Observations reveal thousands of workers and engineers engaged in Phase 3 components, particularly the passenger terminal and essential utilities. The site buzzes with massive machinery, continuous material transport, and the roar of engines.

Vietnam Airports Corporation (ACV) representatives emphasized the project’s adherence to the motto “Conquering the Sun, Overcoming the Rain, Unyielding Against the Storm,” with 24/7 operations to meet deadlines set by the General Secretary and Prime Minister.

Contractors deployed nearly 14,000 specialists and 3,000 pieces of equipment across hundreds of work fronts, ensuring the airport’s readiness for its inaugural flight on December 19.

Package 4.6 (runways, taxiways, aprons) is on track for completion by December 19, 2025, with full operation expected in mid-2026.

Package 4.7 (apron and terminal) has achieved 95% completion in groundwork, drainage, and concrete. The ground equipment tunnel is set to finish by November 30.

ACV Deputy Director Nguyễn Tiến Việt confirmed pre-December 19 completions include apron structures, drainage systems, lighting, and taxiway illumination. Overlapping infrastructure will finalize by March 2026.

Package 4.8 (internal transport and utilities) has reached 50% completion, with key routes and access roads scheduled for December 19.

Electrical systems for the terminal and control tower will be operational by late November, supporting the technical launch.

Package 4.9 (fuel supply) will complete facilities by December 19, with fuel tanks ready by December 5. Specialized equipment installation will conclude by March 2026.

Package 4.12 (second runway) has completed 80% subgrade and 70% concrete, with taxiways at 65% subgrade and 40% concrete, targeting substantial completion by December 19 for mid-2026 operation.

The terminal (Package 5.10) employs 4,914 workers and 1,000 machines. The roof and steel structures are nearly complete, with glass facades finishing soon.

Urgent Support Needed

Nguyễn Tiến Việt noted that early and prolonged rains challenged underground works. Adjusted plans maintain progress, adhering to leadership directives and technical standards for the December 19 milestone.

To meet the 2026 commercial launch, ACV requests Đồng Nai Province to supply an additional 520,000 m³ of stone, currently delayed due to legal hurdles.

ACV proposes immediate construction of the third runway during Phase II, leveraging existing resources to reduce costs and operational disruptions.

Utilizing current contractors and equipment for the third runway post-December 2025 would optimize the dry season, saving time and expenses.

The third runway project, estimated at ₫12 trillion, includes parallel taxiways, navigation systems, and supporting infrastructure.