Inside Vietnam's Massive 35 Trillion Dong Airport Terminal - A Glimpse into the Future of Air Travel
Construction Progress: Nearing Completion
After nearly two years of dedicated work, the Long Thanh Passenger Terminal in Dong Nai is standing tall, with approximately 80% of its structural framework complete. The heart of the terminal has reached a remarkable 96% completion for its rough construction, and the roof has been fully finished and waterproofed. The three radiating concourses are not far behind, boasting over 93% completion, with their steel frameworks and roofing systems now in place.
An Architectural Marvel: Scale and Design
This monumental project, a significant component of the airport's infrastructure, represents an investment of 35 trillion Vietnamese Dong. The central roof alone is an engineering feat, weighing over 5,300 tons of steel. It was meticulously assembled at 256 connection points, adhering to stringent European standards. This sweeping curved roof spans an impressive 20,000 square meters, with cantilevered sections reaching an astonishing 41 meters – placing it among the largest ever constructed for an aviation hub globally. The entire steel roof structure was lifted simultaneously using 56 hydraulic jacks, guided by a sophisticated computer-controlled load monitoring system.
Innovative Technology and Passenger Comfort
The first layer of the roof, including the decking and skylight system, is now 100% complete and watertight, paving the way for the installation of essential electromechanical systems. The specially designed skylights will flood the interior with natural light, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. Down on the lower levels, crucial systems such as fire prevention and suppression, air conditioning, lighting, and escalators are being expertly installed. Furthermore, a state-of-the-art automated baggage handling system is actively being deployed to ensure seamless passenger journeys.
Connecting the World: Capacity and Reach
The terminal will feature 32 jet bridges, providing convenient access to 40 close-proximity parking stands capable of accommodating various aircraft sizes, from Code C to Code F. The initial phase of this ambitious project, with an investment of approximately 5 billion USD, will cover a vast area of 5,364 hectares. Once fully operational, it is designed to handle an incredible 100 million passengers annually, solidifying its position as a major international gateway.
Timeline for Opening
The construction phase is slated for substantial completion by December 31, 2025. Following this, a six-month period will be dedicated to integrating all systems, installing static equipment, and conducting rigorous testing of both individual and interconnected operations before the terminal officially opens its doors to the world.
