Photo courtesy of VN Express

 

Starting September 26, Long Thanh International Airport in Vietnam will conduct calibration flights to ensure all systems are operational before its planned 2026 launch. The 10-day testing process will involve the Civil Aviation Authority, VATM, and ACV, utilizing Beechcraft B300 aircraft for this purpose. The flights will assess various systems, such as ILS/DME and PAPI, with simulated takeoffs and landings.

 

These flights will be carried out primarily at night or early morning, originating from Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City and passing through Long Thanh airspace, to minimize disruptions. Earlier tests in August using a similar aircraft have informed these procedures. The airport's development is a significant infrastructure project with an investment of nearly VND 337 trillion, aiming to establish it as the largest in Vietnam.

 

Construction on Long Thanh International Airport is well underway. Runway No. 1 and the taxiway system have already been completed. The passenger terminal is close to finishing its roof and glass installations, while additional structures like the air traffic control tower are also nearing completion. A workforce of nearly 14,000 is engaged to meet the deadline, aiming for completion by late 2025.

 

Expert insights emphasize the importance of these tests in guaranteeing safety and efficiency when the airport opens. The calibration flights represent a critical step, reflecting much preparatory work and collaboration among Vietnam’s aviation bodies. Taxpayers and stakeholders are keenly watching this progress, as the airport will play a pivotal role in the region's aviation capacity.

 

Looking ahead, successful calibration flights will ensure that Long Thanh Airport operates smoothly and meets international standards. Once open, this facility will significantly enhance Vietnam’s aviation industry, facilitating increased passenger and cargo traffic and bolstering the nation's infrastructure.

 

Key Takeaways

• Calibration flights will test systems like ILS/DME before Long Thanh Airport's 2026 opening.
• Runway and taxiway systems are completed; other structures are nearing completion with a workforce of around 14,000.
• Successful tests will ensure smooth operation, setting the stage for significant regional aviation growth.

 

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now from VN Express 2025-09-15

 

 

Halfway to Vung Tao; amazing how things change and how fast. When I was born, Ho Chi Minh City was called Saigon, Vung Tao was better known as Cap St. Jacques and the trip from Saigon to Cap St. Jacques (90kms) took for sure anything between 3 - 4 hours. 

Yet to be seen, if the modernization and changing of names have all that influence to the better for future generations .........