Questions raised on airport

QUANG NINH  Vietnam’s Ministry of Transport and the provincial government of Quang Ninh are re-evaluating a proposal to build an airport in Van Don district in this northern province.
Saigon Times reported that according to the ministry, the proposed airport would have one runway, a taxiway and parking to accommodate up to four B777s and A321s.
A report by the province and the ministry said Quang Ninh claimed an airport was a crucial factor for the success of the Van Don Economic Zone and the province’s socio-economic and tourism development.
The project is in line with master zoning plans for transportation in general and air travel in particular, the report claimed.
inside no 4However, the government hopes to attract a private investor and they will look some concern at Hanoi’s airport which is around 182 km west of the site as factor that would impact on a return on investment.
Deputy Minister of Transport, Nguyen Hong Truong, said the airport project, if funded by private capital, would get off the ground sooner than relying on government funding.
He called for Quang Ninh province to do what it could to ensure speedy site clearance and ensure there were adequate approach roads to the airport to support a private investor.
The government of Quang Ninh province and Sun Group originally planned to begin work, earlier this year, but had to postpone ground breaking until further studies were completed on commercial viability and environmental impact.
The build-operate-transfer (BOT) project would require nearly USD352 million, including more than USD246.5 million for construction and equipment, and USD34.5 million for site clearance. It would take an investor around 45 years to breakeven.
The airport is expected to help channel more tourists to Halong Bay and Van Don Island.
Quang Ninh is 182 km east of Hanoi and critics warn that it is too close to the capital to attract major airlines serving tourism. They believe the area would be better served by a motorway or high-speed trains that would offer a more cost-effective transfer that aircraft.
Most visitors will spend time in Hanoi before travelling to Halong Bay, which is a natural World Heritage site and one of the most popular spots for both international and domestic tourists.

sourced:ttrweekly.com