Test flights check navigation systems ahead of Long Thanh airport's imminent opening

Test and calibration flights on Oct. 12 and 13 checked navigation systems and signal lights at the under-construction Long Thanh International Airport in Dong Nai City.

The flight inspection and calibration center run by the Air Traffic Technical Co. Ltd (Attech) used a Beechcraft B300/B350 to inspect systems serving runway 05R/23L.

Attech is a subsidiary of the state-owned Vietnam Air Traffic Management Corporation.

Unlike transport planes, calibration aircraft follow specially designed flight paths to test the technical parameters of navigation systems and signal lights.

They approach along the runway center line, fly predetermined trajectories and perform specific maneuvers to assess equipment coverage and accuracy.

A Beechcraft B300/B350 aircraft prepares to take off from Tan Son Nhat International Airport for a flight to inspect and calibrate navigation systems and aeronautical lighting at Long Thanh International Airport. Photo by Phuong Linh

Evaluation of the systems used for navigation, approach, and landing is mandatory before Long Thanh Airport begins operations.

On Oct. 12, the aircraft tested the instrument landing system and distance measuring equipment (ILS/DME), precision approach path indicator (PAPI) lights and radio navigation systems.

On Oct. 13, the ILS/DME was again tested as was the approach lighting system (ALS).

ILS/DME provides guidance and distance information, helping pilots determine their approach path to the runway.

PAPI lights help pilots identify the correct approach angle through visual light signals, while the ALS helps pilots identify the runway and orient themselves as they transition to the visual approach phase.

Through these flights, technical teams collected data to assess the accuracy and operational performance of each system in real-world conditions, and this will provide a basis for further technical preparations at the airport.

Calibration flights require controllers to have a thorough understanding of each flight procedure, maintain continuous communication and coordinate precisely with flight crews and ground technical teams.

Pilots monitor and control aircraft during test flights to inspect and calibrate navigation systems and aeronautical lighting at Long Thanh International Airport. Photo by Phuong Linh

According to the Vietnam Air Traffic Management Corporation, the tests also help assess the coordination between air traffic control facilities, technical conditions, and the readiness of air traffic control and meteorological personnel at the airport.

Long Thanh is slated to open in late 2026.

The 5,000-hectare airport cost nearly US$16 billion to build. In its first phase, it will have one runway and passenger terminal each and an annual capacity of 25 million passengers and 1.2 million tons of cargo.

Along with Tan Son Nhat airport in Ho Chi Minh City, it will serve as the aviation gateways for the region, helping ease congestion at the existing airport and enable more international flights and cargo transport.