On 31 March 2026, at the headquarters of Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV), the International Air Transport Association officially announced and presented the IATA Safety Audit for Ground Operations (ISAGO) certification to Cat Bi International Airport and Phu Bai International Airport. This achievement represents not only professional excellence but also a clear testament to ACV’s long-term sustainable development strategy and its commitment to aligning with global aviation standards.

IATA representatives present ISAGO certification to Cat Bi and Phu Bai International Airports (31 march 2026, ACV headquarters)

A Journey of Elevation to International Standards

Building on ACV’s successful attainment of corporate-level ISAGO certification in 2025, the continued recognition of its member airports reaffirms the Corporation’s strategic direction. This reflects a steadfast commitment to deep global integration, the continuous enhancement of operational systems, and the consistent pursuit of core values centered on Safety First – Precision Always – Service Beyond Expectations.

Through strategic consistency, disciplined implementation, and decisive execution, the ISAGO certification stands as both a well-deserved milestone and a recognition of the persistent, professional, and highly disciplined efforts demonstrated by Cat Bi and Phu Bai International Airports.

ISAGO audit team conducts comprehensive review of operational documentation at the airport

During the ceremony, outstanding collectives and individuals were also honored, acknowledging their dedication and pivotal contributions to the successful implementation of the ISAGO program at both airports.

Outstanding teams and individuals honored for contributions to the ISAGO project

Strategic Vision and Commitment to System-wide Excellence

Delivering remarks at the ceremony, Ms. Nguyen Thanh Huong, Country Director of IATA in Vietnam, stated:

“Following last year’s success, this chain of achievements continues to expand with the inclusion of Phu Bai International Airport and Cat Bi International Airport. Today’s event clearly demonstrates that ACV’s commitment to safety and operational excellence is not confined to a single unit but is being consistently replicated and standardized across the entire system.

ISAGO is not a final destination, but a continuous commitment. These standards must be maintained consistently between audit cycles. With its strong culture of discipline, ACV and its member airports are well-positioned to uphold these standards at the highest level, further strengthening competitiveness on the global aviation map.”

Representing the newly certified airports, leadership of Cat Bi and Phu Bai International Airports expressed pride in the collective achievements of their staff. They emphasized:

“Achieving ISAGO certification is a strategic milestone, reflecting our determination to integrate deeply into the global aviation network. More importantly, it represents a strong and practical commitment to airlines and passengers.

With this foundation, both airports are fully prepared to deliver ground handling services in accordance with international standards to both domestic and international carriers. Beyond achieving compliance, we are committed to sustaining and continuously enhancing service quality, ensuring safe, professional, and efficient operations for every flight.”

The continued attainment of ISAGO certification across ACV’s airport network significantly enhances overall operational capability while reinforcing the Corporation’s reputation, credibility, and competitiveness on both regional and global aviation landscapes. This serves as a critical foundation for expanding international partnerships, attracting global airlines, and deepening participation in the global aviation value chain.

---o0o---

Cat Bi International Airport (Hai Phong)

As a strategic gateway to the Northern Key Economic Region, Cat Bi International Airport features modern infrastructure, including a 3,050-meter runway capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft such as the Boeing 787 and Airbus A350.

The airport is currently advancing expansion projects, including Terminal 2 and a cargo terminal, aimed at increasing capacity, expanding international routes, and accelerating growth in tourism, logistics, and investment inflows into Hai Phong.

Phu Bai International Airport (Hue City)

Serving as a key aviation gateway to Central Vietnam’s heritage region, Phu Bai International Airport stands out with its Terminal 2 (capacity of 5 million passengers annually, inaugurated in 2023).

The integration of advanced technologies with architecture inspired by Hue’s imperial heritage, combined with ongoing apron expansions, has significantly enhanced the airport’s ground handling capabilities, positioning it to meet international standards and welcome direct global routes.

News and photos: Airports Operation Department