T&T Group executive chairman Đỗ Quang Hiển has proposed support to help airlines cover initial losses when opening new routes to Quảng Trị. VnExpress reports that he raised the request at an October 19 meeting on air connectivity, trade, tourism and digital development.
Assistance remains under consideration
Hiển asked the province to study cost support for airlines. The proposal does not constitute an approved loss-compensation programme.
At the meeting, Civil Aviation Authority deputy director Đào Xuân Hoạch cited the Ministry of Construction's Circular 23, describing a 50% reduction in relevant state-managed fees for 24 consecutive months for carriers serving a new airport or opening a new route.
Airports Corporation of Vietnam chairman Nguyễn Cao Cường said direct provincial-budget payments for individual flights would be difficult. He suggested examining tourism packages involving golf courses and hotels, alongside trade and investment promotion resources.
Quảng Trị provincial chairman Bùi Hoàng Phương said specialist agencies had been tasked with studying suitable arrangements. He cited Gia Lai's support of VND200 million per international charter flight and expressed willingness to assist charters to Quảng Trị. Budget spending must comply with regulations and the provincial People's Council has decision-making authority. Compensation for domestic-route losses remains a separate proposal requiring broader examination.
Airport targets commercial operations in 2027
Quảng Trị airport broke ground in July 2024 under a public-private partnership with investment exceeding VND5.8 trillion. The report puts overall construction above 80%, with the apron completed, runway and taxiway works around 98%, and the passenger terminal above 80%.
An adjusted plan raises the airport from category 4C to 4E, aiming to accommodate wide-body aircraft including Boeing 777s, Boeing 787s and Airbus A350s. Design capacity is five million passengers and 25,500 tonnes of cargo annually.
Commercial operations are planned for March 2027. That remains a target while construction, route development and potential assistance arrangements continue to be prepared.