In celebration of Vietnamese Women's Day on October 20 and in anticipation of the 50th anniversary of Noi Bai International Airport, the Airport's Trade Union organized a special trip to the historic ancient capital of Hoa Lu. More than a sightseeing excursion, the journey brought together generations of former trade union officials and women's affairs representatives who had served the Airport over the decades. It was a meaningful reunion where memories spanning half a century came alive through smiles, pride, and deeply emotional moments.

Generations of Noi Bai trade union officials visit historic Hoa Lu

Two Lively Buses and an Unexpected Reunion

Early in the morning, two buses departed for Ninh Binh, carrying delegates on a memorable journey. What made this trip particularly special was the participation of former trade union officials and women's affairs representatives who had served the Airport during different periods. Some had retired, while others had moved on to different organizations. All were pleasantly surprised and filled with joy at this unexpected reunion.

One former women's affairs representative emotionally shared: "I served as a trade union official responsible for women's affairs many years ago, but I never imagined that one day I would be invited to such a thoughtful and meaningful gathering."

Throughout the journey, conversations flowed continuously on both buses. Veteran officials such as Mr. Nguyen Cong Huy — a former fighter pilot who had been associated with Noi Bai since 1968, former Deputy General Director of the Northern Airports Authority, and former Chairman of the Airport's Trade Union — found themselves surrounded by colleagues eager to ask questions and hear their stories. There seemed to be far too little time for everyone to share all the memories, experiences, and emotions accumulated over the years.

Day One: Returning to the Ancient Capital of Hoa Lu and an Evening of Heartfelt Connections

A moment of connection among generations of Noi Bai trade union officials.

The journey began with a visit to the historic ancient capital of Hoa Lu. The delegation offered incense and visited the temples dedicated to Kings Dinh and Le, reflecting on the nation's glorious history and paying tribute to the ancestors who contributed to building and defending the country.

That evening, the entire delegation gathered for a warm and welcoming Gala Night. The event was honored to welcome Mr. Pham Hoai Phuong, Member of the Executive Committee of the Vietnam General Confederation of Labour and President of the Vietnam National Union of Building Workers.

Speaking at the Gala, Mr. Pham Hoai Phuong extended his warmest congratulations and best wishes to the women on the occasion of October 20, the anniversary of the founding of the Vietnam Women's Union. He also emphasized that, drawing on its long history of activities, the Noi Bai International Airport Trade Union had come up with a wonderful initiative to reconnect generations of former trade union officials and women's affairs representatives as the Airport approached its 50th anniversary.

The Gala also welcomed Mr. Mai Hong Hiep, Deputy Director of Noi Bai International Airport, along with numerous leaders of the Airport's affiliated units. Despite the considerable distance, the leaders traveled from Hanoi to Ninh Binh to join the celebration and offer encouragement to generations of trade union officials. They then made the return journey to Hanoi that very night to fulfill their busy work schedules the following day.

One of the evening's most moving moments came when the audience watched a documentary retracing Noi Bai's 50-year journey — from its challenging early days to its emergence as an airport firmly establishing its position on the international aviation map. The film highlighted the Trade Union's enduring role as a source of emotional support, solidarity, and connection for employees, while also presenting touching images of successive generations carrying forward the Airport's legacy.

A Heartfelt Dialogue: Half a Century of Memories Revisited

Reliving 50 years of Noi Bai's cherished memories.

One of the most meaningful highlights of the Gala was a discussion featuring former trade union officials who had been associated with Noi Bai since its earliest days. Their stories and recollections, spanning half a century, brought moments of deep reflection to the entire audience.

During the discussion, Mr. Nguyen Cong Huy recalled the hardships and challenges of the Airport's early years, when runways and airfield areas still bore the scars of wartime bombing, facilities were severely inadequate, and employees had to carefully collect and conserve every drop of rainwater for their daily needs.

The sincere and unpretentious recollections of the former fighter pilot deeply moved the audience, leaving the entire hall in emotional silence.

Reflecting on these memories, Mr. Nguyen Van Hai, former Standing Deputy Secretary and former Chairman of the Trade Union of the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam, identified three defining qualities that form the core values of Noi Bai International Airport's people: Resilience – Intellect – Compassion.

Equally moved, Ms. Trinh Thi Lien Huong, Vice President of the Trade Union of Airports Corporation of Vietnam and Chairwoman of Noi Bai International Airport Trade Union, spoke emotionally about the transition and continuity of trade union responsibilities passed down from previous generations. She reflected on her 26 years of wholehearted dedication to trade union work at the Airport. Each memory from that journey served as a renewed reminder of the responsibility to keep the spirit of the workers' movement alive today.

Representing the earlier generations of trade union officials, Ms. Nguyen Thi Kim Nhung took to the stage to recite a lengthy poem written by Mr. Nguyen Cong Huy himself.

The heartfelt verses recounted the hardships, challenges, and unwavering determination with which previous generations had persevered to build Noi Bai into the modern, well-equipped airport it is today. The deeply moving poem once again touched the hearts of everyone in the hall, creating another moment of profound emotion and reflection.

Day Two: Exploring Dan Kinh Thien – Thung Ui

Generations of Noi Bai trade union officials reunite in Hoa Lu.

Experiencing traditional bamboo pole dancing at Thung Ui

On the morning of the second day, the delegation continued its journey to Dan Kinh Thien – Thung Ui. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and towering limestone cliffs covered in lush greenery, the delegates immersed themselves in the area's breathtaking natural scenery.

The group enjoyed peaceful moments on a boat ride along the limestone mountains, passing beneath ancient stone bridges and appreciating the extraordinary natural beauty bestowed upon the region.

Here, participants also enthusiastically joined local residents in lively bamboo pole dances, gaining a deeper appreciation of the ancient capital's rich and distinctive cultural heritage.

A Journey of Gratitude and Continuity

Although the trip came to an end, it left lasting and cherished memories in the hearts of all participants.

Noi Bai International Airport's 50 years of construction and development represent the collective achievements of generations whose hard work, intellect, and unwavering dedication have shaped the Airport's growth.

The heartfelt reunion organized by the Airport's Trade Union was not only a profound expression of gratitude to previous generations but also a powerful source of motivation for today's employees to remain united, carry forward the Airport's proud traditions, and propel Noi Bai International Airport toward even greater achievements in the years ahead.

Enjoying a relaxing bike ride through the lush greenery of Ninh Binh