Quang Tri Airport Project kicks off on July 6

On July 6, the Quang Tri Airport Company Limited, in partnership with the Quang Tri Provincial People’s Committee, will mark a significant milestone with the groundbreaking ceremony for the Quang Tri Airport project, operating under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.

Vo Van Hung, Chairman of the Provincial People’s Committee, expressed strong confidence, stating, "This project has achieved the quickest investment procedures and the fastest site clearance progress. Construction is set to commence imminently."

Swift progress in site clearance

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh endorsed the investment policy for the Quang Tri Airport Project in December 2021. By August 2023, the Quang Tri Provincial People’s Committee had confirmed the feasibility study report. Following a launch ceremony at the end of 2023, joint venture T&T Group and CIENCO4, alongside the provincial authorities, promptly initiated investment procedures and compensated landowners affected by the site clearance.

Groundbreaking ceremony area of ​​Quang Tri Airport - Photo: LAM KHANH

The airport will adhere to level 4C standards and serve as a level 2 military airport, projected to handle approximately five million passengers and 25,500 tons of cargo annually. The total investment is estimated at over VND 5,821 billion (approximately US$7 million), divided into two phases. Phase 1 aims for completion before 2026, involving the construction of an air traffic control tower, runway, aircraft parking, and passenger terminal.

Vo Dac Hoa, Chairman of Gio Linh District People’s Committee, said the project covers a vast area of 265 hectares. He emphasized the district’s commitment to timely site clearance, recognizing the project’s significance and ensuring dialogue with affected communities for fair compensation and resettlement.

With the support of the Gio Linh District Party Committee, over 140 hectares of the 265-hectare site have been cleared as of June 26, 2024. Efforts continue to clear the remaining 125 hectares, aided by the district’s approval and implementation of land compensation prices.

"In just six months, the Gio Linh District Land Clearance Council has achieved significant progress, thanks to the concerted efforts of both the local government and the community of Gio Linh district. They have actively encouraged residents to relocate houses and mausoleums. Those affected by the project are hopeful that the district and province will facilitate favorable conditions for prompt resettlement, stabilizing both livelihoods and production," stated Vo Dac Hoa.

Engineer Tran Khanh Quan from the Construction Investment Project Management Board of Quang Tri Province praised Gio Linh District’s Land Clearance Council for its proactive efforts and community engagement, facilitating the relocation of affected households and ensuring minimal disruption to daily life and production.

The construction of Quang Tri Airport aims to meet rising air travel demand, bolster local socio-economic growth, and enhance national defense capabilities while supporting emergency response efforts and ensuring regional security. Situated to connect North-South traffic with the East-West Economic Corridor via Highway 9, the airport is poised to become a vital gateway, attracting visitors from the Mekong Subregion and boosting tourism in Quang Tri Province.

Local support and economic Impact

Ly Quang Tri, a resident of Ky Lam Village, Gio Quang Commune, expressed optimism about the project’s potential to stimulate trade and socio-economic development. “Local residents and I have affirmed our support for the compensation and site clearance plan, eager to see the project come to fruition”.

Quang Tri Province has proactively pursued economic growth, attracting investments in industries, agriculture, and tourism. However, limited access via railways, roads and waterways has constrained its potential. The airport project represents a pivotal step towards leveraging the province’s unique strengths and fostering comprehensive development.

Chairman Vo Van Hung urged investors to adhere to timelines, emphasizing the importance of prompt construction and the timely completion of Phase 1 to realize the airport’s strategic benefits for the region.

Lam Khanh - Tung Lam