Luang Prabang airport

Authorities say the present Wattay International Airport has no room for expansion and will not be able to accommodate the two-millon passengers expected in the next five years.

The new international aiport will be built at KM 17 on Route 13 South in Xaythani district on a 2 km-wide and 4 km-long lot, and expected to cost no less than $50 million.

Lao authorities also say they expect to fund the project through loans from Japan, the Asian Development Bank, and other ASEAN nations.

In addition, Laos plan to improve and modernize existing airports in Luang Namtha, Savannakhet, and Pakse. Meanwhile, China says it plans to help Laos upgrade the internationsl airport in Luang Prabang, so that it will be able to accommodate more tourists expected to visit the World's heritage site.

Listen to our Laos Today report for more details.