In a report to the Prime Minister, the ministry said Ninh Binh has strategic potential, especially after its planned merger with Nam Dinh and Ha Nam provinces. It urged the government to approve research and planning for the airport.

Currently, Vietnam’s national airport development plan lists 12 potential new airport sites, but Ninh Binh, which is around 130 km from Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport, is not among them. The ministry recommended assigning the provincial People’s Committee to conduct a feasibility study for the project.

To support the initiative, the Ministry will set up a dedicated task force to guide provincial authorities and consultants to ensure high-quality and timely planning.

The proposal also includes building two major highways linking the Trang An–Bai Dinh heritage area with Nam Dinh and Phu Ly, major towns of Nam Dinh and Ha Nam provinces, along with nine bridges across the local rivers. These projects are deemed crucial after the provincial merger and will be managed by the Ninh Binh People’s Committee. The ministry promised technical support during implementation.

The ministry further suggested the Prime Minister direct Ninh Binh to work with developer Xuan Truong company to review existing projects and avoid overlaps, while proposing integrated infrastructure plans to boost regional growth.

In June, Xuan Truong proposed constructing a new international airport in Y Yen, the former Nam Dinh Province, or another site identified by the ministry. Funding would come from the merged Ninh Binh provincial budget and private investors, without using central government funds.

Xuan Truong is behind several major tourism projects in Ninh Binh, including Trang An Ecotourism Complex, Bai Dinh Pagoda and Tam Chuc Tourism Area.