Vietnam's Long Thanh airport begins flight tests ahead of year-end launch

The move follows a proposal by Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV).

The test flights are scheduled from midnight on October 11 to 11:59 pm on October 19, focusing on the instrument landing system and distance measuring equipment (ILS/DME), as well as runway lighting for runway 05R/23L.

These systems help pilots determine their approach paths and distances to the runway, supporting safe takeoffs and landings, particularly in poor weather or low visibility.

The test flights aim to assess the accuracy and performance of the equipment under actual operating conditions and ensure it meets safety standards before the airport opens to commercial traffic.

The CAAV has instructed ACV to coordinate with Air Traffic Technical Co. Ltd., (ATTECH), Long Thanh air traffic control tower and relevant units to conduct the tests as scheduled and ensure flight safety.

Vietnam Air Traffic Management Corporation (VATM) will coordinate flight operations and issue Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs), while the Southern Airports Authority will supervise compliance with aviation security and safety regulations.

Long Thanh International Airport is in the final stage of preparations for commercial operations, targeted for December 2026. Work includes completing the terminal, runways and supporting facilities, inspecting equipment, preparing personnel and testing operational procedures.

The navigation system and runway lighting tests are among the key steps toward ensuring the airport is ready for operation.

In its first phase, the airport is designed to handle 25 million passengers and 1.2 million tonnes of cargo annually.

Under the current plan, the airport will operate at around six to 10 percent of its designed capacity from December 2026 to March 2027, rising to around 50 percent from April to October 2027.

It is expected to reach full designed capacity after October 2027.