Recognizing this reality, in recent years, the province has focused on mobilizing resources to step-by-step remove hurdles in transport infrastructure, ranging from aviation to road networks. This effort aims to meet the traveling needs of the people, strengthen connections with major economic centers nationwide, and create the necessary conditions for a breakthrough in the new development phase.

The province identified clearing these transport “bottlenecks” as an urgent, strategic requirement that determines the long-term space and momentum for regional growth. During the 2021-2025 period, Điện Biên prioritized 20.8% of its local budget and more than 43% of public investment capital from the Central budget specifically for transport infrastructure.

The year 2023 marked a major milestone in the province’s infrastructure development when Điện Biên Airport completed its investment and upgrade, enabling the operation of large aircraft such as the A320 and A321. This expansion holds strategic significance, improving operational capacity while opening opportunities for rapid connection with major economic hubs, which greatly benefits investors, businesses, and tourists. On December 24, 2025, the province officially welcomed the first direct flight by Vietnam Airlines from Hồ Chí Minh City to Điện Biên, marking a new era in connectivity. This route shortens the travel distance between the two ends of the country, facilitating trade and attracting investment, particularly from the dynamic Southern economic region.

Nguyễn Thị Ngọc Yến, a tourist from Hồ Chí Minh City, shared her excitement at being able to visit the heroic land of Điện Biên Phủ so easily, praising the pleasant weather and hospitable locals. During the welcoming ceremony for this inaugural flight, Lê Văn Lương, Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee, emphasized that the direct flight realizes the high determination of the province in implementing the Resolution of the 15th provincial Party Congress. He noted that the route creates a “push” for local tourism and enhances the overall image of Điện Biên.

Alongside aviation, the province focused on building a series of key road projects during 2021-2025 to bridge the gap between difficult terrains and the central area. A notable project currently underway connects key economic zones along National Highway 279 and National Highway 12 with a total investment of VND 1,300 billion. Spanning 35.37km, this project aims to complete infrastructure and strengthen regional links to drive growth in agriculture, forestry, trade, and tourism, with an expected completion in the second quarter of 2026.

The province also prioritized resources for the synchronous development of inter-commune and inter-village roads. To date, 100% of communes have automobile access to their centers. During 2021-2025 alone, over 800km of rural roads were newly built or upgraded, while thousands of kilometers were hardened, significantly changing the rural landscape and improving people’s lives. By the end of 2025, the provincial transport network reached 903.03km, and compared to 2020, the length of paved surfaces increased by 891km.

Adhering to the principle of “transportation goes first to clear the way,” the province continues to prioritize strategic projects, most notably the Sơn La - Điện Biên - Tây Trang Expressway. In early 2026, the Government officially agreed to assign Điện Biên province as the primary investor for the Sơn La - Điện Biên - Tây Trang expressway section.

Other priorities include upgrading the connection between National Highway 12 and the A Pa Chải - Long Phú border gate. For the 2025-2030 term, completing transport infrastructure remains one of the three breakthrough stages in the provincial Party Committee’s Resolution. As these bottlenecks are cleared, Điện Biên will gain a solid foundation to promote economic development toward a green, smart, and sustainable future, aiming to become a well-developed province in the region.