The VND336.7 trillion (US$16 billion) construction project of an international airport in the southern Dong Nai Province was approved by a majority of the National Assembly deputies this morning.

A majority of National Assembly deputies say "yes" to the construction of the Long Thanh International Airport in a vote this morning. - Photo vietnamplus.vn

With 428 deputies voting ‘yes', accounting for 86.64 per cent of the total deputies at the ongoing 13th National Assembly's (NA) ninth session, the Long Thanh International Airport will be an important one in the country. It is expected to reduce the load on the neighbouring Tan Son Nhat Airport in HCM City, and will become an international entrepot of the region.

The airport will be able to handle 100 million passengers and five million tonnes of freight a year. The investment will come from various sources, such as the state budget, official development assistance and corporate capital.

The project has been divided into three phases. The first phase, expected to be completed in 2025 and handle 25 million passengers and 1.2 million tonnes of freight a year, includes the construction of a runway, a terminal and supporting infrastructure.

The Long Thanh International Airport project attracted public attention after it was discussed for the first time at the previous NA session. Right after the session, expert delegations worked hard on the project.

Following today's approval, the NA issued a resolution asking for detailed plans of the construction, including site clearance, compensation, employment and re-settlement and support of those who would be displaced from their land.

The NA also asked for the implementation of the project with due consideration being given to its progress, environmental impact and financial balance.

The NA also approved the Law on Sea and Island Natural Resources and Environment with 452 votes, and the revised Law on State Budget with 442 votes.