Vietnam airlines required to add aircraft as passengers expected to rise 8%

By Doan Loan February 27, 2025 | 12:03 am PT

A Vietnam Airlines plane descends at Noi Bai airport in Hanoi. Photo by VnExpress/Luu Quy

The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) has requested airlines to add more aircraft following a significant increase in passenger traffic since the beginning of the year, with a projected growth of 8% in 2025.

Vietnam's aviation market saw notable growth in both domestic and international passengers in February. The total number of passengers reached 7.3 million, a 12% increase compared to the same period last year. International passenger numbers rose by 22%, reaching 4.2 million, while domestic passengers increased by 1.6%, totaling 3.1 million.

Vietnamese airlines transported 4.8 million passengers, up 6.2% from February 2024. Notably, international passengers served by Vietnamese airlines increased by 15.4%, reaching 1.7 million.

According to the CAAV's forecast, passenger traffic for the entire year of 2025 is expected to grow by around 8% compared to the previous year. However, the ongoing aircraft shortage persists due to the impact of engine recalls and the global shortage of available rental aircraft.

The CAAV has requested airlines to add more aircraft and improve fleet utilization efficiency to meet the growing demand. Airlines are also required to develop flexible flight schedules that align with the capacity of each airport.

Additionally, airlines must report their ability to serve passengers, particularly during peak periods such as the Reunification Day and Labor Day (April 30 and May 1), the summer peak, and National Day (Sept. 2).

The CAAV also called for airlines to enhance service quality, ensure high on-time performance rates, and optimize the use of takeoff and landing slots at airports to minimize delays or cancellations. Airlines must comply with the regulated fare structure and closely monitor ticket sales and bookings to add seats on high-demand routes.

The CAAV will take strict action against agencies that intentionally raise ticket prices in violation of regulations.

To meet passenger demand during peak periods, airports must allocate sufficient manpower and ensure infrastructure, equipment, and service vehicles are available.

Airports are also required to complete maintenance and repairs of infrastructure before peak periods to avoid disruptions and closely monitor airline operations and the use of takeoff and landing slots.