Ho Chi Minh City Is Getting a Second Airport – What Long Thanh Means for Long-Haul Arrivals
Looking for a holiday in HCMC? As Long Thanh International Airport opens, your plans from the airport to the hotel, meeting, or final destination might be disrupted. For those who wish to have a VIP limousine at your arrival, there is one important factor to consider: the airport you will be flying into. With two airports potentially handling international services during the transition, it's best to be able to confirm your arrival airport to prevent last-minute changes and unnecessary travel delays.
The new airport is being built in Dong Nai Province to the east of Ho Chi Minh City. It is expected to take on a growing share of international traffic as operations expand. For you, it means checking flight information and ground transportation arrangements will become extremely important.
✈️ Long Thanh and Tan Son Nhat: What Is Changing?
Long Thanh International Airport (LTH) is being built to help alleviate congestion at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City. Although both airports serve the same broader destination, they are located in different areas.
The distance from central Ho Chi Minh City to Long Thanh is about 40 km to the east. Tan Son Nhat is much closer to the central urban area. That difference matters when you're planning to get an airport pickup, particularly if you land after an international flight.
The transition is expected to be a gradual one, rather than an immediate, complete switch. Airlines will slowly start to change their operations as the new airport prepares to enter commercial service.
The bottom line for visitors: If you're planning a trip to HCMC, that doesn't necessarily mean you're landing at Tan Son Nhat. Before booking your transfer, verify the airport code on your booking confirmation.
🗓️ When Will Long Thanh International Airport Open?
Long Thanh is preparing for commercial operations by the end of 2026. It was earlier planned to reach the target date of December 1, 2026. However, recent updates suggest partial commercial operations could commence on December 24, 2026, with a slow ramp-up to full capacity.
These dates are indicative of when services will commence, and do not imply that every service will start on a single set date. The actual implementation will be contingent on building completion, operational testing, and approval requirements.
If you are planning to visit Vietnam during the end of 2026 or early 2027, don't solely depend on opening dates. The most reliable guide is your airline's confirmed flight information.
This is especially crucial when booking a VIP limousine ahead of time. Correct airport information enables providers to match pickup arrangements with actual arrival details.
🌍 Which International Flights Are Expected to Move First?
The transition plan entails a gradual move of international services to Long Thanh, with long-haul flights set as a key priority.
The initial phase forms a roadmap to allow airlines to utilize Long Thanh airport for passenger and cargo operations according to operational requirements. The next phase, aligned with the summer 2027 flight schedule, is intended to move long-haul international flights to the new airport. The entire transition process will take place over subsequent scheduling periods. Specifications may vary according to airline policy, readiness, and official procedures.
What does this mean if you are flying from the United States, Europe, Australia, or another long-haul destination? You should not assume that your usual arrival airport will remain unchanged.
United Airlines is one of the carriers travelers may consider when planning international journeys. However, the airport for any particular flight must be confirmed through the airline's own booking system. Do not assume a specific flight will move to Long Thanh without confirmation.
Before departure, check:
Your arrival airport: Make sure your ticket explicitly specifies LTH or SGN.
Your flight information: Monitor for any terminal or schedule changes from your airline.
Your onward journey: Ensure hotel, business meeting, or transfer arrangements match your confirmed arrival airport.
Check all details before leaving home to avoid scheduling issues at the wrong location. Choose a VIP limousine for a private, comfortable ride from the airport to your hotel, business meeting, or other destination in Ho Chi Minh City.
🔄 Will Both Airports Operate During the Transition?
Yes. The published transition plan allows Tan Son Nhat and Long Thanh to operate concurrently during the changeover. Because it is impossible to shift all international services at once, the plan uses phased stages to help airlines adjust their schedules and operations.
Tan Son Nhat is expected to retain services that have not yet moved, while Long Thanh gradually takes on more international traffic. Domestic flight arrangements will also vary from airline to airline depending on final operating plans.
This overlap makes it particularly important to verify flight information before arranging transportation. Two travelers heading to the same hotel in Ho Chi Minh City could arrive at different airports, depending on their flight schedules. If you've arranged a hotel transfer, business pickup, or onward journey, review those details whenever your airline provides an update.
🚘 Plan Your Airport Transfer Before You Fly
A new airport means a different starting point for your journey into the city. Since Long Thanh is roughly 40 kilometers to the east of Ho Chi Minh City, your transfer will involve a different route compared to departing from Tan Son Nhat.
Travel times vary based on your destination, traffic volume, and the routes open on the day. Avoid assuming distance alone dictates drive time. If you have a meeting shortly after landing, allow generous buffer time for immigration, baggage collection, and highway transit.
Book A Limo always recommends confirming your airport code and final destination before reserving your ride. If you prefer a private and luxurious journey, a VIP limousine can be pre-booked for seamless airport, hotel, and executive travel.
Before confirming your booking, have these details ready:
Flight details: Provide your flight number and confirmed arrival airport.
Pickup arrangements: Confirm your designated meeting point and arrival time.
Destination details: Provide your exact hotel address, office location, or drop-off point.
Schedule changes: Check your airline's latest notifications before departure.
You can also schedule your ride directly from the Book A Limo Android or iOS app. Choose your desired service option, input your airport information, and ensure accuracy before finalizing your reservation.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. When does Long Thanh International Airport open?
Commercial operations are targeted for late 2026. Earlier plans set December 1 as a launch target, while updated reports indicate a potential start of partial commercial operations on December 24, 2026, followed by a phased ramp-up.
2. How far is Long Thanh from central Ho Chi Minh City?
Long Thanh International Airport is located approximately 40 km east of central Ho Chi Minh City. Actual driving time depends on your specific destination, traffic congestion, and highway routing.
3. Which flights are expected to move to Long Thanh first?
International flights are scheduled to shift in stages, with long-haul international flights planned to move during the summer 2027 flight schedule. Specific route shifts depend on airline operational readiness and government approvals.
4. Will Tan Son Nhat and Long Thanh both operate during the transition?
Yes. Both airports will operate simultaneously during the multi-year transition period. Always check your flight confirmation to verify whether your specific flight arrives at SGN or LTH.
🎯 Make Your Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City Easier
Long Thanh International Airport will soon transform how international travelers access Ho Chi Minh City. Once flight operations begin, knowing your exact destination airport is a crucial step in preparing your itinerary.
Before you fly, double-check your airport code, monitor airline schedule updates, and arrange ground transportation based on verified arrival details. Whether traveling for business or leisure, Book A Limo assists with complete ground transportation needs across your trip. With a VIP limousine, enjoy a relaxed airport transfer while keeping all onward travel plans perfectly organized.
Planning your next trip to Ho Chi Minh City? Book your airport transfer with Book A Limo today and ensure your arrival arrangements are ready before takeoff!
