Heritage Hotels
Stay inside history within colonial mansions, converted royal residences, and boutique heritage gems across Indochina’s most beautiful cities.
Explore Hotels →×
Indochine Chic
Updated July 16, 2026
Long Thanh Airport Interchange: Gateway to Vietnam’s Largest Airport
The Long Thanh Airport interchange is the critical gateway linking Vietnam’s mega-airport to Ho Chi Minh City Ring Road 3 — a complete guide for travelers, investors, and logistics operators.
For an airport to succeed, it needs more than a world-class terminal and runways. It needs seamless connections to the cities and regions it serves. Long Thanh International Airport — Vietnam’s largest aviation project — is no exception.
As the airport prepares for commercial operations by the end of 2026, a critical piece of the puzzle is taking shape: the Long Thanh Airport interchange. This multi-level grade-separated junction connects the airport’s access roads to National Highway 51, the Ho Chi Minh City–Long Thanh–Dau Giay Expressway, and the Bien Hoa–Vung Tau Expressway.
Together with Ho Chi Minh City’s Ring Road 3, the interchange forms the backbone of Southern Vietnam’s new transportation network, reshaping how millions of passengers will access the airport each year.
This guide is your definitive resource — going beyond news headlines to provide practical travel information, route options, and infrastructure context for anyone planning to use Long Thanh International Airport.
At a Glance
Project Name
Long Thanh Airport Interchange
Location
Long Thanh District, Dong Nai
Connection
Ring Road 3 via Provincial Road 25B
Distance to Airport
Direct access via T1 road
Investment
Over 2,630 billion VND
Status
Main components complete
Expected Opening
Q3 2026
Design Speed
100 km/h on T2 route
Why This Interchange Is So Important
Solving Airport Accessibility: Long Thanh Airport is located approximately 40 kilometers east of central Ho Chi Minh City. Without efficient road connections, the airport risks isolation — a problem that has plagued major airports built far from urban cores worldwide.
Reducing Congestion: The current 40-kilometer trip from central Ho Chi Minh City to Long Thanh takes two to three hours under heavy congestion. The interchange and connecting expressways will dramatically reduce this travel time.
Creating Multiple Access Routes: Modern international airports require multiple high-capacity road connections. The interchange serves as the heart of the airport’s direct connection system, coordinating traffic along both North-South and East-West axes.
Supporting Airport Operations: In its first phase, Long Thanh Airport will handle 25 million passengers annually and 1.2 million tons of cargo per year. The interchange ensures this traffic can flow smoothly without bottlenecks.
Improving Passenger Experience: A stress-free journey to the airport is essential for traveler satisfaction. The interchange, with its grade-separated design and dedicated ramps, will provide a seamless, predictable travel experience.
Where Is the Interchange Located?
The Long Thanh Airport interchange is situated in Long Thanh District, Dong Nai Province, at the intersection of several major transportation arteries.
Position Relative to Long Thanh Airport
The interchange connects directly to the T1 and T2 roads — the two main access routes leading into Long Thanh International Airport. The T1 road serves as the main gateway to the airport, connecting with National Highway 51, while the T2 route links the airport to the Ho Chi Minh City–Long Thanh–Dau Giay Expressway.
Ring Road 3 Connection
Travelers can reach the interchange from Ho Chi Minh City’s Ring Road 3 via Provincial Road 25B, which extends from the Nhon Trach area to National Highway 51 leading to the airport. The Ring Road 3 section through Dong Nai is approximately 67% complete and scheduled for full operation by May 2026.
Nearby Expressways
- Ho Chi Minh City–Long Thanh–Dau Giay Expressway: The primary artery connecting Ho Chi Minh City to the airport
- Bien Hoa–Vung Tau Expressway: Provides access from the coastal tourism hub of Vung Tau
- Ben Luc–Long Thanh Expressway: Connects the Mekong Delta region to the airport
- National Highway 51: A vital transportation artery connecting Dong Nai with southeastern provinces
Nearby Urban Developments
The interchange is surrounded by rapidly developing industrial zones and urban areas, including Nhon Trach Industrial Park, which will benefit significantly from improved access to the airport.
Engineering Design of the Interchange
Construction on the T1 and T2 road projects began in July 2023, with a construction period of 885 days and a total investment of over 2,630 billion VND.
Multi-Level Layout: The most complex element is the interchange between the T2 line and the Ho Chi Minh City–Long Thanh–Dau Giay Expressway — a multi-level structure that allows simultaneous connection of many important traffic arteries.
Flyovers and Directional Ramps: The interchange features separate lanes for different traffic movements, ensuring continuous traffic flow and minimizing congestion. The overpass on the T1 route leading directly to the airport has already been completed and put into use.
Capacity and Future Expansion: The T2 route is approximately 3.5 kilometers long, designed with four lanes meeting expressway standards at a speed of 100 km/h. The design accommodates future traffic growth as the airport expands through its three planned phases.
The interchange between T1 and T2 is considered the heart of the entire project, regulating traffic flow along both the North-South and East-West axes.
How Travelers Will Reach Long Thanh Airport
From District 1
Via HCMC–Long Thanh–Dau Giay Expressway → T2 interchange → T1 road
Expected: 30–40 minutes
From Thu Duc
Via Ring Road 3 → Provincial Road 25B → National Highway 51 → T1 road
Expected: 25–35 minutes
From Binh Thanh
Via HCMC–Long Thanh–Dau Giay Expressway → T2 interchange
Expected: 35–45 minutes
From District 7
Via Nguyen Huu Tho Road → Ben Luc–Long Thanh Expressway → interchange
Expected: 40–50 minutes
From Tan Son Nhat Airport
Via HCMC–Long Thanh–Dau Giay Expressway → T2 interchange
Expected: 45–60 minutes
From Bien Hoa
Via National Highway 51 → T1 road
Expected: 20–30 minutes
From Vung Tau
Via Bien Hoa–Vung Tau Expressway → Long Thanh interchange
Expected: 60–70 minutes
From Binh Duong
Via Ring Road 3 → Provincial Road 25B → National Highway 51
Expected: 45–55 minutes
From Long An
Via HCMC–Trung Luong Expressway → Ben Luc–Long Thanh Expressway
Expected: 50–60 minutes
From Mekong Delta
Via HCMC–Trung Luong Expressway → Ben Luc–Long Thanh Expressway
Expected: 90–120 minutes
Travel times are estimates based on normal traffic conditions and completion of all connecting infrastructure. Actual times may vary.
Integration with Southern Vietnam’s Expressway Network
The Long Thanh Airport interchange does not exist in isolation. It is the central node in a rapidly expanding network of expressways and ring roads that connect Southern Vietnam.
Ring Road 3: The 76.34-kilometer ring road, currently under construction, will connect five important radial expressways and is scheduled for completion by June 2026. From Ring Road 3, travelers can connect to Provincial Road 25B leading to National Highway 51 and the airport.
Ho Chi Minh City–Long Thanh–Dau Giay Expressway: This 55-kilometer expressway is the primary artery connecting Ho Chi Minh City to the airport. It is currently being expanded from four to eight to ten lanes to handle increased traffic.
Ben Luc–Long Thanh Expressway: This 58-kilometer expressway is expected to fully open in September 2026, connecting approximately 18 million people in the Mekong Delta to Long Thanh Airport.
Bien Hoa–Vung Tau Expressway: This nearly 54-kilometer expressway connects the airport to the coastal tourism hub of Vung Tau, with travel time expected to be reduced to about 70 minutes.
Ho Tram–Long Thanh Expressway: A new 42-kilometer urban expressway with a total investment of nearly 47,000 billion VND has been approved, connecting the Ho Tram tourist center to Long Thanh Airport.
Long Thanh Airport Ground Transportation Master Plan
Current Services
- Private cars via expressway network
- Airport shuttles and luxury chauffeur services
- Taxis and ride-hailing services
- Express bus routes connecting to Tan Son Nhat, Eastern Bus Station, Saigon Bus Station, Binh Duong, and Vung Tau
- Private transfers
Future Connections
- Thu Thiem–Long Thanh urban railway
- Metro Line 1 extension to Long Thanh Airport
- Metro Line 2 connecting Tan Son Nhat to Long Thanh
- High-speed rail integration with the North–South railway
Benefits for International Travelers
Faster Airport Transfers
Travel time from central Ho Chi Minh City to Long Thanh Airport will drop from two to three hours to approximately 30 minutes.
Reduced Congestion
Multiple access routes via the interchange distribute traffic, reducing bottlenecks on any single road.
Better Reliability
Predictable travel times mean fewer missed flights and less stress for time-sensitive travelers.
Easier Hotel Transfers
Direct access from luxury hotels in District 1, Thu Duc, and other key areas via the expressway network.
Improved Tour Logistics
Tour operators can offer seamless airport-to-resort transfers, enhancing the luxury travel experience.
Better Business Travel
Executives can reach the airport quickly from meetings and business districts without traffic anxiety.
Benefits for Tourism
Improved access to Long Thanh Airport will have a transformative effect on tourism across Southern Vietnam.
Ho Chi Minh City
Faster airport connections make the city more attractive for short stays and stopovers.
Vung Tau
The Bien Hoa–Vung Tau Expressway reduces travel time from the airport to the coast to about 70 minutes.
Mui Ne and Phan Thiet
Improved connectivity makes these beach destinations more accessible for international travelers.
Mekong Delta
The Ben Luc–Long Thanh Expressway connects 18 million people in the Mekong Delta to the airport.
Con Dao
Better connectivity to Long Thanh Airport supports the island’s development as a luxury destination.
Southern Vietnam Luxury Itineraries
Seamless airport access enables luxury tour operators to offer multi-destination itineraries across Southern Vietnam.
Economic and Investment Impact
The Long Thanh Airport interchange and connecting infrastructure are catalysts for economic development across Southern Vietnam.
Airport City Development
Improved access makes the airport area attractive for commercial and residential development.
Logistics
Fast connections to industrial zones and seaports reduce logistics costs and improve supply chain efficiency.
Industrial Parks
Nhon Trach Industrial Park and other zones benefit from better access to the airport for cargo and executive travel.
Real Estate
Areas along the expressway corridors are seeing significant property value appreciation.
Hotels
New hotel development is accelerating to serve both airport travelers and business visitors.
Convention Centers
Better airport access makes Southern Vietnam more competitive for international conferences and events.
Airport Transfer Guide
Choose the transport option that best suits your travel style and needs.
Luxury Travelers
Private chauffeur service from your hotel directly to the airport terminal. Recommended for comfort, privacy, and convenience.
Families
Pre-booked private vehicle with child seats or a spacious SUV for luggage. Express buses are also an affordable option.
Business Executives
Luxury sedan or executive van with Wi-Fi. Time-sensitive travelers benefit from the predictable 30-minute journey.
Golf Groups
Private minibus with golf bag storage. The expressway network provides direct access to Southern Vietnam’s golf courses.
Cruise Passengers
Pre-arranged transfers from the airport to cruise ports. The Ben Luc–Long Thanh Expressway connects to seaport areas.
Multi-Country Tours
Luxury tour operators offer seamless airport-to-resort transfers across Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos.
Plan Your Transfer: For a stress-free journey, consider booking a private chauffeur service through Indochine Chic. Our professional drivers know the fastest routes and will ensure you arrive at Long Thanh Airport relaxed and on time.
Long Thanh Airport vs Tan Son Nhat Accessibility
| Factor | Long Thanh Airport | Tan Son Nhat Airport |
|---|---|---|
| Distance from Central HCMC | Approximately 40 km | Approximately 8 km |
| Typical Travel Time | 30 minutes | 45–90 minutes |
| Expressway Access | Multiple expressways and Ring Road 3 | Limited expressway access |
| Congestion | Low | High |
| Future Expansion | Three phases to 100 million passengers/year | Limited expansion space |
| Regional Connectivity | Integrated with expressway network and future rail | Limited regional connections |
| Passenger Experience | Modern, spacious, designed for efficiency | Crowded, limited amenities |
Future Infrastructure Around Long Thanh Airport
The Long Thanh Airport interchange is just the beginning. Several major infrastructure projects are in the pipeline to support the airport’s long-term role as Southern Vietnam’s primary aviation hub.
Airport City
A commercial and residential district planned around the airport.
Rail Connections
Thu Thiem–Long Thanh railway and Metro Line 1 extension to the airport.
Ring Road 4
A new ring road connecting the airport to surrounding provinces.
Ho Tram–Long Thanh Expressway
A 42-kilometer expressway connecting the airport to the coastal tourism area.
Logistics Parks
New cargo handling and warehousing facilities to support airport operations.
Commercial Districts
Retail, dining, and entertainment developments around the airport area.
The combination of these projects will create a comprehensive, multi-modal transportation network that supports economic growth and makes Southern Vietnam more accessible than ever before.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Long Thanh Airport interchange?
The Long Thanh Airport interchange is a multi-level grade-separated junction connecting T1 and T2 access roads with National Highway 51, the Ho Chi Minh City–Long Thanh–Dau Giay Expressway, and the Bien Hoa–Vung Tau Expressway. It is the heart of the airport’s direct connection system.
How does the interchange connect to Ring Road 3?
Travelers reach Long Thanh Airport from Ring Road 3 via Provincial Road 25B, which connects to National Highway 51 and the T1 road leading directly to the airport.
Will the interchange reduce travel time to Long Thanh Airport?
Yes. The current trip from central Ho Chi Minh City takes 2-3 hours. Once fully operational, travel time will drop to approximately 30 minutes.
Can tourists use the interchange?
Yes. The interchange is open to all vehicles, including private cars, taxis, ride-hailing services, and buses.
Which route is best from District 1?
Via the Ho Chi Minh City–Long Thanh–Dau Giay Expressway to the T2 interchange, then T1 road to the airport. Expected travel time: 30–40 minutes.
Will Grab and taxis use this route?
Yes. Ride-hailing services and taxis will use the interchange and expressway network to reach the airport.
Is there public transport?
Yes. Ho Chi Minh City has planned seven bus routes connecting Long Thanh Airport with Tan Son Nhat, the Eastern Bus Station, the Saigon Bus Station, Binh Duong, and Vung Tau.
When will the interchange be fully operational?
The main components are complete, and the interchange is expected to be fully operational in sync with Long Thanh Airport’s commercial operations by the end of 2026.
Is there a metro connection to Long Thanh Airport?
Future metro connections include the Thu Thiem–Long Thanh railway and Metro Line 1 extension. These are expected to be operational by 2030.
Can I travel from the Mekong Delta to Long Thanh Airport?
Yes. The Ben Luc–Long Thanh Expressway connects approximately 18 million people in the Mekong Delta to Long Thanh Airport.
Will there be rental car facilities at Long Thanh Airport?
Yes. Like major international airports, Long Thanh will offer rental car services for travelers who wish to drive themselves.
What is the design speed of the T2 access road?
The T2 route is designed for 100 km/h, meeting expressway standards.
Is there a connection to Vung Tau?
Yes. The Bien Hoa–Vung Tau Expressway connects Long Thanh Airport to Vung Tau, with travel time expected to be reduced to about 70 minutes.
How does Long Thanh compare to Tan Son Nhat?
Long Thanh offers modern, spacious facilities with efficient access via the expressway network. Tan Son Nhat, while closer to the city center, suffers from chronic congestion and limited expansion space.
What is the total investment in the interchange?
The T1 and T2 road projects have a total investment of over 2,630 billion VND.
Conclusion
The Long Thanh Airport interchange is far more than a road project — it is the critical piece of infrastructure that will determine how efficiently millions of passengers access Vietnam’s largest airport.
Together with Ho Chi Minh City’s Ring Road 3 and the regional expressway network — including the Ho Chi Minh City–Long Thanh–Dau Giay Expressway, the Ben Luc–Long Thanh Expressway, and the Bien Hoa–Vung Tau Expressway — the interchange creates a seamless, integrated transportation system that will reshape mobility, tourism, and economic connectivity across Southern Vietnam for decades to come.
Plan your journey with confidence. As Long Thanh International Airport prepares to open, ensure your airport transfers are arranged with a trusted provider. Indochine Chic offers private chauffeur services designed for comfort, reliability, and style — so you can focus on enjoying your journey.
Continue Your Heritage Journey
Explore the living legacy of Indochina through our curated editorial collection of heritage guides, hotels, and experiences.
Luxury Stays
Featured Hotels of Vietnam
Hanoi
Metropole Hotel
The ultimate crown jewel of classic French colonial elegance. Nostalgic white facades, timeless ironwork, and cinematic grandeur embody the peak of Indochine luxury.
Hue
Azerai La Residence
Timeless Art Deco elegance sitting proudly on the banks of the Perfume River facing the ancient Imperial Citadel.
Hoi An
Four Seasons The Nam Hai
An architectural sanctuary layout directly on the pristine coast. Unrivaled luxury villas and soul-stirring cultural spas.
Ho Chi Minh City
Park Hyatt Saigon
A pristine architectural heritage sanctuary dating back to 1930. Bask in old-world Saigon charm with opulent crystal chandeliers and nostalgic French-Indochine design lines.