Provider of air cargo handling services, SATS, and Vietnam Airlines have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) 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 Vietnam Airlines’ 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 Vietnam Airlines aim to improve operational efficiency and service quality across these stations.

Located 35km from Ho Chi Minh City in Dong Nai province, LTIA is being constructed to alleviate congestion at Tan Son Nhat International Airport.

LTIA is due to launch in phases, with Phase 1 expected to commence operations by the second half of 2026.

The new airport will have the capacity to handle up to 25 million passengers and 1.2 million tonnes of cargo annually, with goals to expand to its full capacity of 100 million passengers and five million tonnes of cargo by 2050.

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

Kerry Mok, president and chief executive of SATS, said: “We are pleased to formalise this MoU with Vietnam Airlines 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.”

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