Long Thanh International Airport is facing a shortage of nearly 6,000 workers, raising concerns it may miss its planned year-end deadline. The massive infrastructure project, located near Ho Chi Minh City, requires around 14,000 personnel, but currently has only about 8,400 on site.
State investor Airports Corporation of Vietnam has reported difficulties in mobilizing sufficient manpower for the project. The airport, which began construction in 2021, is Vietnam’s largest and most expensive aviation development, with an investment exceeding $12 billion.
Critical construction areas, including the main passenger terminal, are facing the most severe shortages. Workforce levels have dropped significantly in key packages, slowing progress on essential infrastructure and equipment installation.
Despite government pressure, including directives from Pham Minh Chinh to accelerate completion, staffing gaps continue to impact timelines. The first phase is still targeted for operations by late 2026, but delays now appear increasingly likely.
