The passenger terminal, a key component of the Long Thanh airport project, is in the final stages of construction and equipment installation.
Inspired by bamboo and lotus flowers, the terminal combines modern architecture with Vietnamese design elements. Its spacious interior makes extensive use of natural light, while environmentally friendly materials are intended to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.
Part of the roof and interior of the western wing has been largely completed. Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV) said the central area and western wing would be prioritised for initial operational trials.
The airport will use biometric technology for check-in, self-service bag drop and other passenger procedures. The system is designed to provide a seamless journey from check-in and baggage drop to immigration, reducing the need for conventional identity documents.
The baggage handling system (BHS) is also undergoing trials, with foreign engineers supervising tests of the baggage conveyor system. The terminal will also be equipped with a smart Airport Operations Control Centre (APOC).
The terminal features a stylised lotus design, with vaulted roofs, skylights and extensive glazing allowing natural light into check-in halls, corridors and security areas.
Foreign engineers supervise trials of the terminal's baggage conveyor system.
The terminal features a spacious, modern interior and a distinctive lotus-inspired design, with vaulted roofs, skylights and extensive glazing bringing natural light into check-in halls, corridors and security areas.
The exterior is largely complete and connected to the airport's taxiways, aprons, runway and air traffic control tower.
The structure features stylised lotus petals and a distinctive domed roof reflecting Vietnamese cultural identity.
Nguyen Duc Hung, acting chief executive of ACV, said four construction packages had been completed, while several major components among eight others were more than 90 per cent complete.
ACV plans to conduct operational trials in October and November before assessing the readiness of the airport's infrastructure, systems and personnel. Testing of the fuel hydrant system (FHS) is also expected to be completed in November before regulatory approval is sought.
During the initial operating phase, the central area and western wing are expected to handle domestic and short-haul international flights, with capacity for up to 366 flights a week, including 322 domestic and 44 international services.
During an October 4 inspection, Deputy Prime Minister Pham Gia Tuc said the project was more than 80 per cent complete, but some contractors remained behind schedule with substantial work still outstanding.
Long Thanh International Airport in Dong Nai City is a nationally significant project with investment of about USD 5 billion. Covering 5,364 hectares, it is designed to handle 100 million passengers a year when fully developed