Phu Cat Airport's New Runway Nears Completion After $130M Investment, Eyeing International Flights

The construction of a second runway at Phu Cat Airport in Gia Lai province, central Vietnam, an investment totaling VND 3.2 trillion (approximately $130 million), is nearing its final stages. Following flight calibration tests scheduled for September, commercial operations are expected to commence in October. The project, which began in August 2025, is managed by the Gia Lai Department of Transport and Civil Projects Management. The new runway measures 3,048 meters in length and 45 meters in width, running parallel to and 215 meters west of the existing runway. It is designed to accommodate Code C aircraft such as the A320 and A321, with the capability to handle larger aircraft like the Boeing 787, 777, and Airbus A350 if necessary. Specialized machinery with 25 platinum steel blades has been used to create anti-skid grooves on the runway surface, enhancing braking and reducing aircraft stopping distances. Currently, hundreds of workers are engaged in the final finishing tasks, including dust control and cleaning, to meet the target of flight calibration by the end of September and commercial operation in October. The installation of approach lights, meteorological observation equipment, and other essential systems for flight operations is also progressing. Security fencing and drainage systems are being put in place to ensure airport safety. Phu Cat Airport is currently planned as a domestic airport, without direct international flight operations. However, the operation of the new runway is expected to increase the airport's capacity and create opportunities for attracting international tourists via charter flights, thereby stimulating local economic development. According to the master plan for 2021-2030, Phu Cat Airport is projected to handle 5 million passengers and 12,000 tons of cargo annually. This phase also includes the construction of a new passenger terminal (T3) with a capacity of approximately 3.5 million passengers per year. By 2050, the airport's capacity is slated to increase to 7 million passengers and 27,000 tons of cargo per year, with an expansion of Terminal 3 to accommodate the growing passenger volume.