Vietnam has a problem after becoming so popular with backpackers, sun-seekers, and those in search of breathtaking landscapes, it has become one of the top holiday spots in Southeast Asia.
But, it has effectively become a victim of its own success as its main city Ho Chi Minh, in the south of the country, only has one airport, which is over capacity and it is not possible for it to be expanded.
The city, which had a population of nearly nine million in 2019, similar in size to London, is a vibrant hub filled with food markets, financial services, history, and culture.
The existing Tan Son Nhat International Airport, named after the former president, is the sole airport serving Ho Chi Minh City, but it cannot be expanded due to its location within the city limits, established during the Vietnam War.
The airport was designed to accommodate about 30 million passengers annually, but in 2023, it handled 40 million.
A new airport is on the horizon for Ho Chi Minh City. Construction on Long Thanh International Airport, located 25 miles east of the city, started in January 2021 and is anticipated to be finished by September 2025.
As reported by local outlet Vietnam+, this project is the most expensive in the country’s communist history, costing £726 million.
While this news is likely to be welcomed by the tourism board and local businesses, the large infrastructure project has significantly impacted the lives of many residents.
According to VN Express, officials in Dong Nai Province have relocated 4,161 residents to facilitate the nearly 5,000-hectare development.
Even though the affected individuals are receiving compensation, the National Assembly voted in January to extend the relocation process until the end of this year.
Ultimately, the mega-airport is projected to serve 100 million passengers each year, although its initial capacity will be around 25% of that figure at the time of opening.
