Long Thanh International Airport Prepares for Trial Operations: Key Developments and Pricing

Long Thanh International Airport, located in Dong Nai province, is rapidly approaching its trial operation phase, with plans to commence testing in late September and officially launch commercial operations by December 2026. The Ministry of Construction recently announced passenger service fees, which will be effective from October 1, 2026. Domestic passengers will incur a fee of 90,909 VND (approximately $4), while international travelers will be charged $25 per passenger, aligning with fees at other major airports in Vietnam, such as Noi Bai and higher than Tan Son Nhat by $5.

According to the Ministry, the service fees for domestic flights remain consistent with Tan Son Nhat and other major airports, while the international fee reflects the advanced infrastructure and technology at Long Thanh.

In preparation for its opening, Long Thanh's construction is nearing completion, with significant progress reported in key areas such as the passenger terminal and aircraft parking facilities. The airport's operator, Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV), is coordinating with contractors to finalize all construction and technical systems by the end of September 2026. These preparations include rigorous testing of technical systems, staff training, and the establishment of operational protocols.

ACV has developed around 55 trial operation scenarios in collaboration with Incheon Airport's management team and PMI Consulting. From these, 15 to 20 core scenarios have been selected to ensure readiness for commercial flights. The airport is also conducting emergency response drills to ensure safety protocols are effective before the official launch.

“The division of flight operations between the two largest airports in the country is crucial for airlines to plan their schedules and allocate resources effectively.”Dr. Tran Viet Anh, Vice President, Hung Vuong University

While preparations are underway, a critical issue remains unresolved: the operational division between Long Thanh and Tan Son Nhat airports. The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) has yet to finalize a plan for how flight operations will be shared between the two airports. Experts emphasize that the division should consider economic efficiency and national interests rather than merely geographical distance.

Dr. Tran Viet Anh, Vice President of Hung Vuong University in Ho Chi Minh City, noted that the operational division is of significant concern to both domestic and international airlines. He remarked that the division of flight operations between the two largest airports in the country is crucial for airlines to plan their schedules and allocate resources effectively. He urged that the decision-making process should not be overly bureaucratic, as it could hinder the development of Long Thanh as a major international hub.

As the airport gears up for its trial phase, the completion of surrounding transportation infrastructure, including the Ben Luc - Long Thanh expressway, is expected to enhance connectivity between the Mekong Delta and the airport, eliminating the need to transit through Ho Chi Minh City. This development is anticipated to facilitate smooth traffic flow, supporting Long Thanh's operational capacity and contributing to the economic growth of southern Vietnam.

With the trial operations set to begin soon, stakeholders from various airlines have expressed the need for a minimum of 12 months to prepare for the transition, emphasizing the complexity of adjusting booking systems and training personnel. The CAAV has acknowledged the substantial workload remaining before the airport can commence operations, reinforcing the need for thorough preparations to avoid disruptions.