Vietnam airport near world's largest cave Son Doong suspends evening flights through Jan 9

According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam, the nightly suspension has prompted domestic airlines to adjust schedules for several flights to and from Dong Hoi, the transit point for visitors to Vietnam's world-famous caves including Son Doong which is around 70 km away.

Passengers are being advised to check flight updates before heading to the airport.

The disruption comes as the Airports Corporation of Vietnam pushes ahead with a major expansion at Dong Hoi Airport, including a new T2 passenger terminal and a larger aircraft apron.

The project broke ground on April 19, 2025, and is scheduled for completion in the fourth quarter of 2026, with total investment exceeding VND1.75 trillion ($66.6 million).

Once the T2 terminal enters service, Dong Hoi Airport will be able to handle up to 3 million passengers a year, while apron capacity will double from four to eight aircraft stands.

The airport is currently operating at more than 50% above its designed capacity, handling around 500,000 passengers annually. On a typical day, it serves nearly 10 round-trip flights linking Dong Hoi with Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.