Bắc Ninh Sets Course for Global Air Hub with Airport Expansion

Photo courtesy of Vietnam News

Bắc Ninh, a province in Vietnam, is advancing its international aviation stature as Gia Bình International Airport undergoes an expansive development projected to revitalize the region as a key travel and cargo center by 2050. This ambitious project, sanctioned by Minister of Construction Trần Hồng Minh, involves plans from 2021 to 2030, aiming to accommodate 30 million passengers and handle 1.6 million tonnes of cargo yearly, utilizing major aircraft models such as B747, B777, B787, A380, A350, and A321.

Currently, the planned enhancements include constructing a northern runway of 3,500m by 45m and a southern runway of 4,000m by 45m, with a distance of 1,800m between them. The airport layout features taxiways beside each runway along with a robust network of connecting and rapid exit paths to streamline operations. By the year 2050, infrastructure is expected to support up to 50 million passengers and 2.5 million tonnes of cargo annually.

The development plan covers 1,960 hectares for the 2021–2030 period, with strategic transport links such as the Hà Nội-Hải Phòng expressway and an urban railway station expected to align national and local railway networks. The ministry has instructed provincial authorities in Hà Nội and Bắc Ninh to finalize transport infrastructures, securing synchronized connectivity and meeting regional economic aspirations.

The Bắc Ninh People’s Committee is tasked with integrating the airport into local plans, managing airspace, and addressing infrastructure needs, including energy and water resources, to ensure seamless expansion. Cooperation with the Ministry of Industry and Trade will focus on the infrastructure for electricity and fuel supply, aligning operations with Gia Bình Airport’s future needs.

Investment for the initial phase through 2030 is estimated at VNĐ161,600 billion (US$6.36 billion). Looking towards 2050, an additional VNĐ52,700 billion (US$2.07 billion) will support further advancements, positioning the airport as an integral part of Vietnam’s national airport network, requiring a projected VNĐ485,472 billion (US$19.1 billion) in capital, sourced from various financial origins.

Key Takeaways

• Gia Bình Airport aims for 50 million passengers annually by 2050.
• Development includes two major runways and extensive taxiways.
• Total investment needed is projected at VNĐ485,472 billion ($19.1 billion).

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Vietnam News 2025-10-14