The airport project aims to improve the regional and inter-regional transport network (Illustrative image)

According to the provincial authority, amid rapid urbanisation, a growing population, and a diversifying economy, particularly in tourism, industry, services, and logistics, investment in an international airport is an urgent requirement. The project aims to improve the regional and inter-regional transport network, enhance transport capacity, and attract investment.

Beyond serving travel demands, the airport is also expected to spur economic growth, generate jobs, and unlock the province’s rich potential in heritage, culture, and spiritual tourism, contributing to sustainable development goals.

The proposed location in Liem Tuyen Ward is strategically situated near several key transport hubs: approximately 80km from Noi Bai Airport, 85km from Cat Bi Airport (Hai Phong), 63km from the under-study Gia Binh Airport, 85km from Tho Xuan (Thanh Hoa), 5km from Phu Ly Station (North-South high-speed rail), and 17km from Nam Dinh Station. It also lies within an 8–30km radius of major urban centres such as Hoa Lu, Phu Ly, and Nam Dinh.

The airport will feature two parallel runways and cover around 720 hectares, with an initial passenger capacity of 10 million per year.

Previously, Xuan Truong enterprise proposed constructing an international airport in Y Yen District (now merged into Ninh Binh) or at a site identified by the Ministry of Construction. The project is expected to be financed through local post-merger budgets and socialised capital, without using central government funds.

The Ministry of Construction has expressed support for the proposal, citing the province’s strong potential in developing air transport.

During a meeting with Ninh Binh leaders on July 25, Minister of Construction Tran Hong Minh praised the province’s tourism potential, particularly spiritual tourism, with landmarks such as Trang An, Bai Dinh, Tam Chuc, and Tran Temple.