Long Thành Airport vs.Tân Sơn Nhất: What International Travelers Should Expect in 2025–2026

Last Update: Monday December 22, 2025

Vietnam’s aviation landscape is entering a transformative period. Between 2025 and 2026, international travelers will begin to experience a gradual shift from Tân Sơn Nhất International Airport to the newly developed Long Thành International Airport.

This transition is not just about moving flights—it represents a major upgrade in capacity, passenger experience, and immigration efficiency. Below is a detailed comparison to help international travelers understand what to expect during this critical transition period.

Overview: Two Airports, Two Different Roles

Tân Sơn Nhất International Airport

Located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, Tân Sơn Nhất has long been Vietnam’s busiest airport. However, limited land space has made expansion difficult, leading to congestion—especially during peak international travel seasons.

Long Thành International Airport

Situated in Dong Nai Province, about 40 km from downtown Ho Chi Minh City, Long Thành Airport is designed as Vietnam’s future aviation hub. Once fully operational, it will significantly reduce pressure on Tân Sơn Nhất.

Timeline of International Route Migration

2025: Initial Transition Phase

During 2025, most long-haul international flights will continue operating from Tân Sơn Nhất. However, selected international routes—especially newly launched or restructured services—may begin trial operations at Long Thành Airport.

Travelers should expect:

• Split international arrivals and departures between two airports

• Airline-specific decisions on routing (new routes are required to change)

2026: Expanded International Operations

By 2026, Long Thành Airport is expected to handle a substantial share of international traffic, particularly:

• Long-haul routes to Europe, Australia, and North America

• High-capacity international airlines

• Transit-focused operations

Tân Sơn Nhất will increasingly focus on domestic flights and short-haul regional services.

Photo: Collected

Facilities Upgrades That Improve Immigration Speed

Long Thanh International Airport is designed to serve as a major global air transit hub. Built to ICAO’s highest Code 4F standards, it will be capable of accommodating the world’s largest passenger aircraft, including the Airbus A380 and Boeing 747-8.

Meanwhile, Tan Son Nhat International Airport meets ICAO Code 4E standards and serves more than 40 airlines through two terminals: T1 for domestic flights and T2 for international flights. The airport has an expansion plan targeting a total capacity of up to 50 million passengers per year. Recently, the T3 terminal has been constructed and put into operation for domestic flights, helping to reduce congestion at the T1 terminal.

Current / Planned System: There are 24 self-service check-in kiosks and 24 self bag drop counters at Long Thanh International Airport, while Tan Son Nhat International Airport currently has a total of 10 self-service units. For international travelers, this means shorter waiting times and a smoother first impression of Vietnam.

Photo: Collected

Fast Track Services: What Travelers Should Know

For travelers prioritizing time and comfort, the Arrival/Departure Fast Track service will help. 

The Fast Track service helps passengers skip long queues and speed through arrival and departure procedures. On arrival, a representative meets you at the airport, assists with priority immigration clearance, visa-on-arrival stamping if needed, and guides you through baggage and customs, with VIP packages offering luggage handling and escorted transfers. On departure, the service includes meet-and-greet at the check-in area, priority immigration and security clearance, and guidance to the boarding gate, with VIP options assisting check-in, baggage handling, and customs as well. This service is ideal for travelers who want a smoother, faster experience at the airport

Vietnam-Immi.org provides a variety of premium airport services designed to enhance convenience, comfort, and time efficiency for travelers. Service reservations can be made through Airport fast track service - Visa to Vietnam

Accessibility & Transportation Considerations

Getting to Tân Sơn Nhất

• Close to city center

• Taxi and ride-hailing widely available

• Traffic congestion remains a major challenge

Getting to Long Thành

• New expressways and airport shuttle systems under development

• Longer travel time initially (45–60 minutes)

• Better long-term traffic flow and parking infrastructure

Travelers should plan additional ground travel time when flying via Long Thành, especially during early operational phases.

Whether you need a fast visa, airport fast track, private car, or eSIM, Vietnam-Immi.org is here 24/7 to support your trip.

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