Special mechanism proposed to extend Metro Line 1 to Long Thanh Airport

With plans to extend Ho Chi Minh City's Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien Metro Line to Long Thanh International Airport in nearly Dong Nai city and expand the total network to 255 km by 2030, Ho Chi Minh City aims to not only meet rising travel demands but also create a powerful engine for regional socio-economic development.

During a meeting on July 30, chaired by Politburo Member and Permanent Deputy Prime Minister Pham Gia Tuc, leaders from HCM City, Dong Nai City, and relevant ministries discussed the extension of the Ben Thanh – Suoi Tien line (Metro Line 1).

The project, which connects Dong Nai City’s administrative center and its Long Thanh Airport, is classified as an urgent work intended to strengthen transport connectivity between key economic hubs.

Mr. Ho Van Ha, Vice Chairman of the Dong Nai City People’s Committee, emphasized the project's significance amid a growing population and increasing travel demand between HCM City and Dong Nai. He noted that once Long Thanh Airport becomes operational, the need for high-capacity transit connecting the airport with surrounding areas will be critical.

The proposed extension spans approximately 44.5 km, with 2.9 km located within HCM City. This expansion will provide an additional transit option, complementing existing routes and aligning with global urban rail development trends.

The project is expected to be implemented through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, specifically via Build-Transfer (BT) contracts.

Dong Nai City has already planned urban development sites following the Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) model along the route. The locality has also prepared "reciprocal land funds" to mobilize resources for the project. Notably, land clearance has been separated into an independent project, which is currently underway across the entire line and is slated for completion by December 31, 2026.

Ministries reached a consensus that extending Metro Line 1 to Dong Nai’s administrative center and Long Thanh International Airport is both necessary and urgent. The project will significantly enhance transport links between HCM City, Dong Nai, and the airport, supporting broader socio-economic goals.

Consequently, participants agreed to propose that the project be designated as an "urgent work" under the Law on Construction. They also recommended reporting to the Government for review and approval, providing the necessary legal framework to fast-track the project's implementation.