The Role of Aviation Transport Infrastructure in the Air Freight Logistics Service Chain: A Case Study in Vietnam

In recent years, the aviation sector has been strongly developing in all cities of Vietnam. However, the government management and infrastructure seem not to satisfy the growth of aviation transport, showing that proper policies are needed to boost the aviation sector's development. This study evaluates the role of government management and aviation transport infrastructure in the air freight logistics service chain, with an empirical investigation conducted in Vietnam. Data was collected through surveys of 700 enterprises that had shipped goods via air freight forwarders or air cargo agents. Measurement scales were assessed using Cronbach’s Alpha, exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and hypothesis testing through structural equation modelling. The analysis results indicate that government management of air logistics positively influences air cargo handling and forwarding services as well as air freight transport services. Aviation transport infrastructure significantly affects air cargo handling and forwarding services and air freight transport services. Moreover, air cargo handling and forwarding services positively impact air freight transport services. Both air cargo handling and forwarding services, along with air freight transport services, strongly influence the operational efficiency of the air freight logistics service chain. Based on the research findings, several implications are proposed for government agencies to enhance the role of state management and develop aviation transport infrastructure. Additionally, recommendations are provided for managers within the air freight logistics service chain to improve operational efficiency.