£9.5bn Vietnamese Airport to Challenge Dubai's Supremacy
Overview of Long Thanh Airport
A new airport is set to open in 2026, and it will become one of the largest travel hubs globally. This £9.5 billion project, known as Long Thanh Airport, is located in Vietnam, a country that offers some of the most affordable holiday destinations. The airport has been under construction for several years and is expected to serve up to 100 million passengers annually, positioning it as a major competitor to well-known airports such as Dubai and Atlanta.
Opening Date and Progress
The exact opening date of Long Thanh Airport has not been officially announced, but it is anticipated that commercial operations will commence in mid-2026. However, the airport will not be fully completed at this time. A fourth terminal and runway are scheduled for construction and will be opened by 2035.
On September 26, the airport took a significant step toward its opening with the first runway calibration flight. A small jet conducted a series of flights over the first runway, circling multiple times and performing low-altitude passes. This process is essential before an airport can open, as it involves simulated takeoffs and landings from various directions and altitudes to ensure safety and accuracy.
Location and Accessibility
Long Thanh Airport is situated on 50 square kilometers of land in Long Thanh, a district within Dong Nai Province. While this area is often overlooked by tourists, the airport is located 40 kilometers east of Ho Chi Minh City, slightly further than Vietnam’s current main airport, Tan Son Nhat International Airport. Currently, it takes about an hour to reach the capital city from the new airport. Plans are underway to expand the motorway to improve accessibility, along with the introduction of a new railway line and high-speed train to reduce travel times.
Features and Design
Inside Long Thanh Airport, the design is impressive and unique. The main concourse features an 82-meter glass roof section shaped like a lotus flower, which is Vietnam's national flower. This symbolizes purity, commitment, and optimism. One of the terminals appears to stretch out like a stem, while the other two branch off diagonally. The airport also includes a water fountain in the center, designer stores, seating areas, and a glass front, making it a visually appealing space for travelers.
Travel Rules for Vietnam
Traveling to Vietnam from the UK is relatively straightforward. British passport holders do not require a visa for stays of 45 days or less for tourism or business purposes. However, it is essential that your passport has an expiry date at least six months after your arrival date and contains at least two blank pages. Additionally, Brits have faced issues with entry and exit due to damaged passports, so it is crucial to keep your passport in good condition.
Latest Updates on Airports
Recent developments include the approval of Gatwick Airport’s £2.2 billion second runway expansion. There are also planned European airport strikes in September 2025 and beyond. Meanwhile, the UK’s “quietest airport” is gaining attention for its stress-free travel experience and minimal queues. Another notable development is the reopening of a controversial UK airport after five years, supported by a £160 million cash boost.
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