Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV) has made a comprehensive investment in a modern aviation fuel supply system at Long Thanh International Airport, developed in accordance with international standards. The system is now entering its final stage of completion, with operations targeted to commence in December 2026. Long Thanh Aviation Fuel Services Branch (LTAFS), the unit directly responsible for managing the system, has completed preparations in terms of personnel, resources and operating procedures to ensure safe, stable and reliable operations.

Modern Technology and Infrastructure Meeting International Standards

As one of ACV’s key technical infrastructure components, the aviation fuel supply system has been designed in strict compliance with international Joint Inspection Group (JIG) standards.

Its core infrastructure comprises six fuel storage tanks with a total capacity of 36,000 m³, ten receiving pumps with a combined capacity of 600 m³ per hour, and four dispensing pumps with a total capacity of 1,816 m³ per hour. An underground pipeline network directly connects the 150-hectare fuel storage facility to the airside area, supported by highly automated control and monitoring systems.

This integrated investment ensures a continuous and efficient fuel supply, meeting the operational requirements of Long Thanh International Airport in its initial phase as well as its future development stages.

Overview of the aviation fuel supply facility, covering an area of 150 hectares.

Fuel storage tanks designed in accordance with international JIG standards, with a total capacity of 36,000 m³.

Ten fuel receiving lanes connected to ten receiving pumps, with a combined capacity of 600 m³ per hour.

Finalizing Pipeline Cleaning and Integrated Testing

Under the close direction of ACV's leadership, all construction and installation works have been completed. The project is now entering one of its most critical stages, including pipeline cleaning and integrated system testing.

These activities aim to eliminate all potential contaminants from the pipeline network, verify equipment reliability and ensure that the fuel delivered meets stringent quality requirements. Pipeline cleaning is expected to be completed in November 2026, paving the way for an assessment under the IATA Fuel Quality Pool (IFQP) program and official acceptance by the State Inspection Council.

Technical experts inspect the process pipelines to verify that they are free from water contamination and sediment.

Particular attention is being paid to the pipeline cleaning process to ensure fuel quality and system reliability.

LTAFS Proactively Prepares for System Handover and Operations

Recognizing that human resources are a decisive factor in ensuring operational safety and service quality, LTAFS has organized a series of specialized training program combining theoretical instruction with hands-on practice at the construction site.

In addition, its personnel have been assigned to undertake practical training at leading aviation fuel service providers, including Noi Bai Aviation Fuel Services Company (NAFSC), Tan Son Nhat Petroleum Trading Joint Stock Company (TAPECO), Vietnam Aviation Fuel Company Limited (SKYPEC), and Petrolimex Aviation Joint Stock Company (PA). These training programs are designed to equip the workforce with the necessary expertise and practical capabilities to operate and master the system's technology immediately upon handover.

LTAFS personnel gain practical experience and familiarize themselves with the system's technology at the construction site.

Alongside workforce development, LTAFS is expediting the completion of management documentation, operational procedures and technical dossiers. The unit is also proceeding with the necessary applications for an aviation service provision license and approval to put the facility into operation, ensuring full compliance with applicable legal requirements. These preparations will provide a solid foundation for the system to commence operations safely, efficiently and on schedule.

The concerted efforts to complete the infrastructure, strengthen human resources and finalize legal procedures are bringing the aviation fuel supply system closer to its official operational launch. Built on the foundations of safety, quality and efficiency, the project will not only meet the demanding requirements of a major international gateway airport but also contribute to completing ACV's integrated aviation services ecosystem, supporting the strong development and long-term growth of Long Thanh International Airport.

News and photos: Long Thanh Aviation Fuel Services Branch