A strategic move to connect two major airports

The Ministry of Construction has proposed to the Prime Minister that Ho Chi Minh City take charge of developing the Thu Thiem - Long Thanh urban railway project, estimated at $3.5 billion.

The project aims to enhance connectivity between Tan Son Nhat International Airport and Long Thanh International Airport.

According to the urban planning vision for HCMC through 2040 and beyond to 2060, two main railway lines are outlined.

The first, Metro Line 6, will connect Tan Son Nhat International Airport to the Thu Thiem - Long Thanh railway at Phu Huu junction and continue to Long Thanh International Airport.

The second, Metro Line 2, will link Tan Son Nhat directly to Thu Thiem Station and then share infrastructure with the Thu Thiem - Long Thanh line to reach Long Thanh Airport.

HCMC’s urban planning has already designated Metro Lines 6 and 2 as key investment projects under the city's management. The Ministry of Construction is currently responsible for the Thu Thiem - Long Thanh railway project.

Proposal for HCMC to take the lead

To expedite the project and ensure a unified approach to construction, operation, and land management around the railway corridor, the Ministry of Construction has recommended assigning the project to the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee. This would enhance local autonomy and speed up the investment preparation process.

If authorized, HCMC would inherit all existing research results from the Railway Project Management Board under the Ministry of Construction to continue with investment preparation and project implementation.

Special mechanisms for rapid implementation

The Ministry of Construction has also suggested that the project be included in the list of pilot projects under special mechanisms approved by the National Assembly in Resolution 188. By leveraging such mechanisms, the investment preparation phase could be completed within a year.

The proposed Thu Thiem - Long Thanh railway line will span approximately 42 kilometers, featuring a dual-track system with a gauge of 1,435 mm and a design speed of 120 km/h. The line will consist of 20 stations, transporting both urban and suburban passengers from HCMC and Dong Nai Province to Long Thanh International Airport.

The total investment is estimated at $3.5 billion. Currently, the pre-feasibility study report has been circulated among local authorities for feedback, and the Ministry of Construction is finalizing the report to submit to the National Assembly for investment approval in October 2025.

Significance and future potential

The Thu Thiem - Long Thanh urban railway is expected to play a critical role in addressing the rising demand for transportation between the two international airports.

It will also improve regional connectivity, enhance economic development, and support the sustainable growth of HCMC’s urban infrastructure.

By adopting a modern, high-speed railway system, the project aligns with the city’s vision of creating a comprehensive and interconnected public transit network, crucial for reducing congestion and promoting economic efficiency.

N. Huyen