Vietnam flights are set to be cut from April as airlines reduce capacity and suspend some domestic routes in response to rising jet fuel prices, according to a recent report. Carriers are adjusting flight schedules and networks to limit financial pressure as fuel costs increase and supply conditions remain uncertain.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam said airlines are revising operations across their networks, with the sharpest reductions expected on domestic routes. Flight volumes on domestic services could fall by 12% to 26%, while international routes may see cuts ranging from 4% to 18%.
National flag carrier Vietnam Airlines plans to suspend seven domestic routes from April 1 as part of the initial adjustment. The airline could implement deeper cuts of 10% to 20% in total flight volume if jet fuel prices rise further to between $160 and $200 per barrel.
Budget carriers are also scaling back operations. Pacific Airlines said it will reduce capacity by 8% to 30% from April 1, focusing on trimming flights during off-peak hours, while VietJet Air is preparing to cut overall capacity by around 18%, mainly on domestic routes.
Authorities said airlines are aiming to maintain services on key domestic corridors, particularly routes linking Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City. These routes are considered critical for economic activity and connectivity, alongside other services deemed important for socio-political reasons.
The report said airlines are also considering introducing fuel surcharges and increasing ticket prices from April as operating costs continue to rise. Higher fares could further affect travel demand, particularly on domestic routes where reductions are most significant.
Vietnamese aviation authorities are seeking urgent support measures to stabilise the sector, including temporary tax adjustments and efforts to secure fuel supply. The aim is to help airlines sustain operations while managing the impact of volatile energy prices.
