Con Dao airport might be shut for 9 months for upgrade

In a letter it sent recently to the Ministry of Transport, the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) said the work would cost VND3.8 trillion ($167 million) and involve widening the runway from 30 to 45 meters, building a new taxiway and lengthening the three existing ones, according to Bao Giao Thong (Transport Newspaper) under the ministry.

The apron will be widened to park eight aircraft compared to the current four.

Its internal traffic system, fuel depot, and ancillary works will also be upgraded to ensure it can operate around the clock.

The airport is used for both military and civilian purposes.

Once the upgrade is completed, its capacity will quintuple to two million passengers and 4,400 tons of cargo per year. It can handle Airbus A320, A321 and other mid-sized aircraft.

Con Dao Airport was built by the French in the 20th century, and was upgraded in 2003 for commercial use. At present it is closed at night because it does not have a runway lighting system.

An archipelago in southern Vietnam comprising 16 pristine islands, Con Dao has a diverse marine ecosystem and a rich history, making it one of the top destinations not just for local tourists but also foreign visitors.