HCMC – Vietnam is reviewing airport projects nationwide to remove those lacking sufficient demand and improve the efficiency of public investment as part of a revised aviation master plan that envisions 35 airports by 2050.
Under the latest proposed revision, the number of airports planned for the 2021-2030 period will increase from 30 to 32, comprising 14 international airports and 18 domestic airports, following the addition of Gia Binh International Airport and Tho Chu Airport under an expedited approval process.
Looking ahead to 2050, the total number of airports nationwide is expected to rise to 35. The plan also retains 12 potential airport sites for future consideration when conditions permit.
In addition, specialized aviation needs related to tourism, national defense, security, and search-and-rescue operations will be developed under a dedicated airport model in line with provisions of the 2025 Civil Aviation Law.
The figures and proposed adjustments were outlined in a report recently submitted to the Prime Minister on the review and revision of the national airport system master plan for 2021-2030, with a vision to 2050.
The accelerated review follows Conclusion No. 18-KL/TW issued by the Party Central Committee on April 2, 2026, regarding the country’s socioeconomic development plan, national financial strategy, and medium-term public investment program for 2026-2030. The effort is aligned with Vietnam’s goal of achieving double-digit economic growth in the coming years.
The proposed restructuring of the aviation master plan reflects a more pragmatic approach to infrastructure planning and public resource allocation.
A key feature of the review is the proposal to remove airport projects that no longer demonstrate sufficient demand. The move is intended to curb the trend of localities seeking airport projects without clear economic justification, helping to avoid fragmented investment and reducing the risk of delayed or dormant projects that tie up land and resources.
At the same time, shifting specialized aviation activities to dedicated airport facilities could create opportunities for greater private-sector participation through public-private partnership (PPP) models. The approach would allow private investors to develop aviation infrastructure tailored to their operational needs while easing pressure on the state budget.
Beyond airport infrastructure, the revised plan also updates supporting components of the aviation logistics supply chain, including cargo logistics centers, aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul facilities, and flight training centers.
The plan further prioritizes improving transport links to major airports to strengthen regional connectivity and enhance the efficiency of the national aviation network.
