×
Get latest travel news
Vietnam is on the verge of a monumental transformation at Tan Son Nhat International Airport. As preparations ramp up for the upcoming launch of Long Thanh International Airport, significant proposals are being evaluated by the Airports Corporation of Vietnam. These include the potential demolition and reconstruction of the aging T1 Terminal, paired with a proposed underground connection linking T1 to the recently inaugurated T3 Terminal. Upgrades to T2 Terminal are also under consideration, although no final decisions or official timelines have been established yet. For travelers, these changes signify a possible reorganization of air travel through Ho Chi Minh City as the new international gateway prepares to open.
In a shift of focus, the initial proposal for an underground tunnel connecting the TCP parking facility to T1 Terminal has been discarded. This earlier concept aimed primarily at improving access from the parking area has been set aside, while the idea of creating a link between T1 and T3 continues to be refined separately.
Advertisement
Advertisement
This distinction is crucial for passengers, as the two proposals serve different purposes. The abandoned tunnel was more about facilitating parking access, whereas the ongoing discussions center around enhancing connectivity between passenger terminals.
As plans unfold, future airport access will depend significantly on how the roles of T1, T2, and T3 are defined. Any underground connectivity project must carefully consider existing security protocols, baggage handling systems, emergency access routes, and current airport infrastructure.
Until a formal plan is set in motion, travelers should not anticipate immediate alterations to parking access or terminal transfer processes.
The forthcoming inauguration of Long Thanh International Airport is poised to be a transformative moment for aviation in southern Vietnam. While Tan Son Nhat has always been favored due to its proximity to central Ho Chi Minh City, Long Thanh is located a bit further away in Dong Nai.
Consequently, international travelers may need to allocate additional time for road transfers, and should also take into consideration journey costs and potential traffic congestions, especially as rail connections are still under development.
A phased flight transfer plan is being outlined to allow both airports to operate concurrently. According to reports from April 2026, the initial phase will see all long-haul international flights shifting to Long Thanh. By the summer of 2027 through 2030, the majority of other international routes are anticipated to be transferred, barring services operated by Vietnamese carriers for routes under 1,000 kilometers. This transition could result in Long Thanh handling over 90% of international air traffic starting in 2027.
Meanwhile, Tan Son Nhat is expected to transition toward a stronger focus on domestic flights. The potential modernization of T1 should be viewed as part of this broader reallocation of traffic.
If the proposed changes receive approval, passengers may enjoy numerous benefits, including upgraded check-in areas at T1, improved security screening processes, expanded waiting areas, and better accessibility features.
Additionally, a direct underground connection to T3 could streamline the experience for travelers using different domestic airlines, allowing for terminal transfers without exposing them to busy road traffic. Reliable connection times could also be enhanced, though the final design will affect baggage arrangements and airside access.
The overall passenger experience will largely depend on how construction is managed. If T1 is demolished, it may necessitate temporary entrances, adjusted pick-up points, and potential airline relocations. These logistics remain undefined at this time, as the project has yet to receive formal approval.
In this transitional phase, clear communication will be vital to ensure that travelers are guided appropriately when any construction begins. Coordination between airlines, airport authorities, and transportation services will be essential to maintain a smooth travel experience.
Travelers should be aware that no immediate action is needed concerning the T1 reconstruction or the underground link since these remain preliminary discussions. Current terminal operations will continue as usual.
Passengers flying from Tan Son Nhat International Airport are advised to double-check their terminal before departing for the airport. Special attention should be given to domestic flights, as operations are split between T1 and T3. Flight details can be verified through the relevant airline, and ample time should be allocated to reach the correct terminal.
International travelers should continue to use the terminal specified in their booking documentation, without redirecting to Long Thanh unless officially notified by their carrier.
As the airport transition evolves, expect changes to be implemented gradually. Travelers will need to stay updated as routes and airlines may shift at different intervals.
The potential renovation of T1 highlights that Tan Son Nhat International Airport will maintain its significance even after the Long Thanh opening. However, it is poised to take on a revamped role focused on domestic connectivity.
Meanwhile, the international hub functions will gradually shift to Long Thanh. This strategy positions T1 and T3 at the heart of passenger movements between Ho Chi Minh City and various destinations across Vietnam.
These proposals illustrate a holistic approach to airport capacity, with terminal buildings, transfer corridors, parking facilities, ground transportation, and airline distributions all needing careful synchronization. The success of this airport transition will not only rely on construction progress but also on optimizing the passenger experience across the interconnected two-airport system.
[Source:- VN Express]
Source: The post Vietnam Reveals Game Changing Tan Son Nhat Airport Transformation with T1 Rebuild and T3 Tunnel Ahead of Long Thanh Grand Opening first appeared on www.travelandtourworld.com.
