Masterise Group has orchestrated a groundbreaking international competition, bringing together three of the world’s most renowned architectural firms – Gensler (USA), SOM (USA), and Nikken Sekkei (Japan). Their mission: to design the iconic Gia Binh International Airport Passenger Terminal, a project poised to become a new symbol of Vietnam’s ambition and progress. This competition signifies a pivotal moment in Vietnam’s pursuit of world-class infrastructure as the nation embarks on a new era of economic growth.
A Gateway to the North and a Future Aviation Hub
The competition’s presentation round, held on November 8, 2025, at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, showcased the visionary proposals of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP (SOM), Nikken Sekkei Ltd., and Gensler – the masterminds behind Skytrax 5-star airports like Incheon, Haneda, and Changi. Each proposal seamlessly blended global design excellence with a deep understanding of Vietnamese identity.
The competition was meticulously structured as a fully international design process, incorporating live presentations, independent evaluations, secret voting, and a transparent results protocol. It adhered strictly to Vietnamese legal requirements and international standards in architecture, planning, and construction.
A distinguished international Jury Panel, comprising experts like Professor Richard De Neufville (MIT), architect Moshe Safdie (Safdie Architects), Cristiano Ceccato de Sabata (Zaha Hadid Architects), Laurence Liauw (SPADA), and Trevor Carnahoff (Jacobs), meticulously assessed the submissions. Vietnamese representatives from key ministries and Masterise Group ensured the process met the highest professional and regulatory standards.
Designs That Celebrate Vietnam’s Essence and Global Excellence
In a highly professional session, the three firms presented concepts deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture, landscapes, and the future of aviation. Each proposal embraced a forward-thinking “smart – green – sustainable” airport model, prioritizing socioeconomic development and an exceptional passenger experience.
Sustainability was a key focus, with features like rainwater harvesting, optimized daylight, natural ventilation, low-carbon materials, and integrated solar systems receiving particular attention.
Jordan Pierce, Senior Associate Principal at SOM, explained their concept: “Our design for the Gia Binh terminal draws inspiration from Vietnam’s breathtaking landscapes. We’ve created the ‘Terminal of the Water Gardens,’ where each stage of the passenger journey is a unique experience centered around water, resonating with the beauty of Vietnam.”
The Jury evaluated the designs against ten rigorous criteria, including feasibility, sustainability, creativity, cultural expression, functionality, and aesthetics. All proposals were required to meet international standards for modern airport design and operations, with independent scoring and professional dialogue ensuring a thorough assessment.
Laurence Liauw, Vice Chairman of the Jury, commented: “This is an opportune moment for Hanoi to develop a new airport. The existing airport has reached its capacity, and this project represents an opportunity for Hanoi to expand its aviation business. With a rapidly growing economy and population, and Hanoi’s increasing presence on the global tourism map, the new airport will be a welcome addition to Vietnam’s thriving tourism and aviation industry.”
A Symbol of Global Aspiration
Envisioned as the northern gateway and a future hub for passengers, cargo, and MRO services, Gia Binh International Airport is set to drive growth across Hanoi and the Northern key economic region. Designed to meet ICAO 4F technical standards and Skytrax 5-Star service benchmarks, the project holds strategic importance for Vietnam’s economy, security, defense, and diplomacy.
The airport is projected to handle 30 million passengers and 1.6 million tonnes of cargo annually by 2030, with capacity increasing to 50 million passengers and 2.5 million tonnes of cargo by 2050, positioning it alongside regional giants like Changi, Incheon, and Suvarnabhumi.
This international design competition, executed with the highest professional standards, highlights the project’s global ambitions and Masterise Group’s commitment to harnessing world-class expertise in shaping Vietnam’s next generation of national infrastructure.
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