Long Thanh Airport Cargo: SATS, Vietnam Airlines Sign MoU

SATS Ltd. (SATS), one of the world’s largest providers of air cargo handling services, and Vietnam Airlines JSC (VNA) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 13 March 2025 to build and operate an air cargo terminal at the new Long Thanh International Airport (LTIA) in Vietnam. The two companies will also collaborate on strategic initiatives, including enhancing the support of ground and cargo handling services across VNA’s international network.

LTIA, located 35 kilometres from Ho Chi Minh City in Dong Nai province, is being constructed to alleviate congestion at Tan Son Nhat International Airport. LTIA is due to launch operations in phases, with Phase 1 expected to commence operations by the second half of 2026. It will have the capacity to handle up to 25 million passengers and 1.2 million tonnes of cargo annually; and it will eventually expand to its full capacity of 100 million passengers and 5 million tonnes of cargo by 2050.

The collaboration will combine SATS’ air logistics expertise and global network with VNA’s plans to launch Vietnam’s first all-freighter airline, positioning both companies as pivotal contributors to the country’s growing airfreight and logistics sector.

Furthermore, the MoU seeks to expand the existing cooperation between the two organisations in ground and cargo handling services across VNA’s international network. This includes efforts to co-develop customised airfreight and logistics solutions, such as trucking and middle mile services, through SATS and its strategic alliances. By sharing best practices, productivity indicators, and innovative technologies, SATS and VNA aim to improve operational efficiency and service quality across these stations.

This strategic partnership underscores SATS' pivotal role in expanding VNA’s cargo handling capabilities and driving profitability for both companies.

"We are pleased to formalise this Memorandum of Understanding with Vietnam Airlines JSC, as it strongly aligns with our strategic objectives and reflects our dedication to achieving mutual goals. This partnership offers significant growth potential as we jointly explore new opportunities in global markets. At SATS, we bring extensive expertise and experience to the table, ensuring the provision of efficient cargo terminal and ground handling services at Vietnam’s newest airport.” said Mr Kerry Mok, President and Chief Executive Officer of SATS.

Vietnam Airlines, the flag carrier of Vietnam, has a fleet of over 93 aircraft and currently flies to more than 22 domestic and 30 international destinations.