VATM Commissions New Ho Chi Minh Air Traffic Control Center, Strengthening National Air Traffic Management Capacity

The Viet Nam Air Traffic Management Corporation (VATM) has officially commissioned and put into operation the Ho Chi Minh Air Traffic Control Center (ATCC HCM), marking a significant milestone in the modernization of Viet Nam’s air traffic management infrastructure and the enhancement of operational capacity in the country’s busiest Flight Information Region (FIR).

The commissioning of ATCC HCM reflects VATM’s strategic investment to accommodate rapid traffic growth, ensure the highest levels of safety, efficiency and resilience, and provide a critical air traffic control backbone for the future operation of Long Thanh International Airport.

Large-scale investment and modern infrastructure

Approved in 2021, the ATCC HCM project represents a total investment of nearly VND 1.5 trillion. The center is built on a site of approximately 12,600 square meters and includes a five-storey operations building, technical power facilities and a 65-meter VHF antenna tower, with a total floor area of about 12,000 square meters.

ATCC HCM is designed to deliver air traffic control services across the Ho Chi Minh FIR, including en-route and approach control and coordination for major airports in southern Viet Nam such as Tan Son Nhat, Long Thanh, Phu Quoc and Can Tho.

All critical power and technical systems are engineered with high redundancy levels, including dual medium-voltage supply, backup transformers and generators, and Tier-4-standard uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems, ensuring continuous, safe and reliable 24/7 operations.

Advanced air traffic control technologies

The new ATCC HCM is equipped with a state-of-the-art Air Traffic Management (ATM) system supplied by leading international providers. The system integrates multiple surveillance sources, including radar, ADS-B and ADS-C, and supports advanced operational functions such as Arrival and Departure Management (AMAN/DMAN), time-based separation, digital clearance delivery and enhanced decision-support tools.

Voice communications are provided through an IP-based Voice Communication and Control System (VCCS), comprising a primary operational system and an independent training and backup system to ensure operational continuity and safety. In parallel, the VHF communication network throughout the Ho Chi Minh FIR has been comprehensively upgraded, replacing legacy equipment with modern IP-based VHF systems.

A high-performance IP/MPLS transmission network has been deployed to ensure secure, high-speed and reliable data connectivity between ATCC HCM and all associated control units and remote sites. All Communication, Navigation and Surveillance (CNS) systems have been fully installed, technically accepted and licensed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Viet Nam, in compliance with ICAO standards.

Thorough preparation for operational transition

Alongside infrastructure development, VATM placed strong emphasis on preparing for the operational transition from the existing center to the new ATCC HCM. A comprehensive, multi-phase transition plan was developed and rigorously implemented to ensure uninterrupted air traffic services.

Air traffic controllers and technical staff underwent extensive conversion training, simulator-based exercises and rehearsals covering normal, abnormal and emergency scenarios. Technical teams were fully trained to operate, maintain and troubleshoot the new ATM, VCCS, AIS, MET and data communication systems.

The transition process was closely coordinated with the Civil Aviation Authority of Viet Nam, airport operators and military units, ensuring a seamless and safe transfer of operations without service disruption.

Strategic significance

The commissioning of the new Ho Chi Minh Air Traffic Control Center significantly strengthens air traffic control capacity in southern Viet Nam, reduces workload pressure during peak periods and enhances the safety and efficiency of flight operations.

Most importantly, ATCC HCM serves as a key enabling infrastructure for Long Thanh International Airport, playing a central role in managing technical, calibration and commercial flights and supporting the long-term growth of Viet Nam’s aviation sector.

With the successful commissioning of ATCC HCM, VATM reaffirms its strong commitment to modernizing air traffic control infrastructure, ensuring absolute safety and elevating Viet Nam’s air navigation services within the region and globally.

VP