SATS LTD. (SATS), one of the world’s largest suppliers of air freight handling services, and Vietnam Airlines JSC (VNA) signed a memorandum of understanding (sleeve) on March 13, 2025 to build and operate an air freight terminal at the new Long Thanh International Airport (LTIA) in Vietnam. The two companies will also work on strategic initiatives, including improving the support of soil and cargo handling services across from the international network.
LTIA, 35 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City in Dong Nai Province, is being built to alleviate the congestion at Tan Son Nhat International Airport. LTIA will be introduced in phases, with Phase 1 expected to start by the second half of 2026. It will have the ability to handle up to 25 million passengers and 1.2 million tonnes of load annually; And it will eventually expand to its full capacity of 100 million passengers and 5 million tonnes of load by 2050.
The collaboration will combine SATS’s Air Logistics expertise and global network with VNA’s plans to launch Vietnam’s first All-Freight airline, and to position both businesses as an important contribution to the country’s growing air freight and logistics sector.
Furthermore, the sleeve seeks to expand the existing collaboration between the two organizations in soil and cargo handling services in the international network of VNA. This includes efforts to develop custom air freight and logistics solutions, such as truck and middle Mile services, by developing SATs and its strategic alliances. By sharing best practices, productivity indicators and innovative technologies, SATS and VNA aim to improve operational efficiency and quality of service on these stations.
This strategic partnership underlines SATS’s important role in expanding VNA’s cargo handling capabilities and the profitability for both businesses.
“We are pleased to formalize this memorandum of understanding with Vietnam Airlines JSC, as it strongly corresponds to our strategic goals and our commitment reflects to achieve mutual goals. This partnership provides significant growth potential as we jointly explore new opportunities in global markets. In Sats, we bring extensive expertise and experience to the table, which ensures the provision of efficient cargo terminals and land handling services at the latest Vietnam airport. ”Mr. Kerry Mok, President and CEO of Sats said.
Vietnam Airlines, the flag carrier of Vietnam, Have a fleet of more than 93 aircraft and currently fly to more than 22 domestic and 30 international destinations.
Post Sats and Vietnam Airlines Sign Mou for Air Cargo Hub at Long Thanh Airport first appeared on Air Cargo Week.
