Friday, May 16, 2025

is embarking on a major operational shift as it prepares to consolidate all its at the newly inaugurated at in , starting . This move marks a transformative step in the airline’s mission to streamline air travel and offer passengers a more modern, efficient, and digitally enhanced airport experience.

The relocation to T3 is part of a broader modernization strategy aimed at supporting Vietnam’s growing aviation sector. Tan Son Nhat, the country’s busiest airport, has long faced congestion issues at Terminal 1 (T1), particularly during peak travel seasons. The opening of T3 enables Vietnam Airlines to relocate the bulk of its domestic operations to a facility designed with higher capacity, advanced technology, and a focus on traveler convenience.

However, a few routes will remain at T1 for now. Flights connecting to , , and —destinations with specific operational or logistical needs—will continue to depart from the existing terminal. Additionally, services operated by and , though affiliated with Vietnam Airlines, are not included in the terminal transition and will still run from T1.

This sweeping change follows a successful trial relocation last month. On , Vietnam Airlines began operating its high-traffic and routes from Terminal 3. The airline recorded over and served close to from the new terminal in just thirty days—a strong indicator of operational readiness and the effectiveness of cooperation with the and other key airport stakeholders.

To accommodate the influx of passengers, Vietnam Airlines has established an extensive check-in zone within T3, offering counters numbered . The airline has also deployed to reduce queues and provide passengers with a faster, more autonomous check-in process.

Terminal 3 brings cutting-edge digital solutions to the forefront of air travel in Vietnam. Travelers will benefit from and through the , allowing passengers to pass through airport checkpoints without paper documents or physical ID cards. These innovations aim to shorten wait times, simplify boarding procedures, and enhance overall passenger satisfaction.

To ensure a smooth transition for all travelers, Vietnam Airlines has boosted on-ground support at Terminal 3. Additional personnel have been assigned throughout the terminal to assist passengers unfamiliar with the new setup. The airline also urges passengers to , utilize , and arrive at least two hours ahead of their scheduled departure to avoid delays during this transitional period.

Inside the terminal, passengers can expect a modern, spacious environment equipped with updated seating, intuitive signage, expanded security lanes, and a diverse range of shopping and dining outlets. The new terminal not only elevates comfort but also reflects a stronger commitment to sustainability and efficiency in Vietnamese air travel.

Vietnam Airlines’ strategic relocation underscores its long-term vision of becoming a leader in both passenger service and operational excellence. By moving to Terminal 3, the airline is enhancing its ability to manage surging domestic demand while also reducing pressure on outdated infrastructure at Terminal 1. This is especially critical as Vietnam’s tourism and business travel sectors continue to rebound post-pandemic.

The shift is also in line with broader national goals for aviation and infrastructure development. As part of its transport modernization roadmap, Vietnam aims to position Tan Son Nhat Airport as a central hub for both domestic and regional flights. The enhanced capacity and smarter design of Terminal 3 will allow Vietnam Airlines to better align with global standards and accommodate future growth across its route network.

With digital services like biometric check-in, contactless travel, and integrated passenger identity verification, Vietnam Airlines is also leading the charge toward a more connected and tech-forward airport experience. This aligns with international trends as carriers across the globe invest in digitization and automation to meet the evolving expectations of travelers.

Vietnam Airlines has emphasized that the Terminal 3 transition will lay the foundation for upcoming service upgrades and potential new domestic routes. The move allows for greater flexibility in scheduling, improved turnaround times, and enhanced customer experience—all of which contribute to the airline’s competitive positioning.

As Vietnam continues to grow as a tourist and economic destination, upgrades like Terminal 3 are becoming essential to handle the rapid increase in passenger volumes. Vietnam Airlines’ proactive investment in infrastructure and digital technology will help ensure it remains at the forefront of regional aviation excellence.

In summary, the full migration of Vietnam Airlines’ domestic flights to Terminal 3 marks a major milestone in the airline’s operational evolution. By embracing smart technology, expanding capacity, and enhancing the airport journey from check-in to boarding, the carrier is setting a new benchmark for domestic travel in Vietnam. The move not only benefits passengers but also reinforces Ho Chi Minh City’s position as a dynamic and growing aviation hub in Asia.