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This year's April 30th and May 1st holidays are predicted to be a boom period for domestic air travel, as demand for travel increases dramatically. To meet this demand, Vietnamese airlines have proactively planned to increase the number of flights, ensuring the best possible service for passengers.
According to the plan approved by the Vietnam Civil Aviation Authority, during this peak period, domestic airlines will operate more than 7,500 domestic flights, equivalent to an average of about 685 flights per day. Compared to normal days, this number has increased by more than 24%, showing the thorough preparation of airlines to meet the travel needs of passengers.
Vietnamese airlines increased the total number of domestic flights by 24% during the holiday period.
Flights to and from Ho Chi Minh City remain the most important routes, accounting for the largest share with an average of over 460 flights per day. Specifically, on the route connecting Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnamese airlines are expected to operate 1,261 flights, providing 305,000 seats, demonstrating the significant demand for travel between the two largest cities in the country.
These additional flights provide approximately 1.5 million seats, representing a 20% increase compared to the pre-increase schedule and a 22% increase compared to the same period last year.
These additional flights provide approximately 1.5 million seats, representing a 20% increase compared to the pre-increase schedule and a 22% increase compared to the same period last year.
During the holiday period, there were 5,083 flights to/from Ho Chi Minh City (a 21% increase compared to the same period last year), averaging 462 flights per day (a 21% increase compared to normal days and the same period last year); providing 1.03 million seats (a 21% increase compared to normal days and a 21.9% increase compared to the same period last year).
Not only during the April 30th and May 1st holidays, but Vietnamese airlines have also planned to increase flights during the peak summer season of 2025 (from May 15th to August 15th). It is expected that during this period, the airlines will operate 68,558 domestic flights, equivalent to an average of 745 flights per day.
Airlines have increased flights, but many routes are still sold out, and prices have risen sharply.
Flights to and from popular tourist destinations such as Cam Ranh, Phu Quoc, Da Lat, and Quy Nhon are also given special attention by airlines, with over 20,000 flights, accounting for 30% of the total number of flights and providing nearly 4.1 million seats. This demonstrates the airlines' commitment to serving the travel needs of the people.
On the main routes (Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City), airlines are expected to operate 26,800 flights (accounting for 39%), an increase of 24% compared to normal days and 14% compared to the same period last year; providing nearly 5.9 million seats, an increase of 22% compared to normal days and 14% compared to the summer of 2024.
Specifically for routes to/from Ho Chi Minh City, airlines plan to operate 45,000 flights, averaging 490 flights per day; providing 9.23 million seats, an 18% increase compared to normal levels and a 23% increase compared to the same period last year. Based on market demand and the airlines' operational plans, the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam has adjusted the coordination parameters at Tan Son Nhat Airport.
Despite this year's five-day holiday and high demand for travel, the sharp increase in airfare has led many travelers to opt for overseas trips or other modes of transportation.
With thorough preparation in terms of resources, additional aircraft, and plans for increased flights, Vietnamese airlines have demonstrated proactiveness in meeting passenger travel demand during peak holiday and summer seasons. This not only helps people have convenient trips but also contributes to the development of domestic tourism.
To ensure smooth and efficient passenger service during the April 30th - May 1st holiday, the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam is making efforts to implement activities related to bringing Terminal 3 at Tan Son Nhat International Airport into operation. This is an important project, contributing to improving the service capacity of Tan Son Nhat Airport, one of the largest airports in the country.
Currently, to improve the efficiency of air transport operations and reduce the rising cost of airfares, the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam has requested Vietnamese airlines to intensify international flights to local airports.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam is working closely with the Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV) and Vietnamese airlines to prepare all necessary conditions for the commissioning of Terminal 3. These preparations include inspecting and completing the infrastructure system, installing equipment, training staff, and establishing coordination procedures between all relevant parties.
Bringing Terminal 3 into operation just in time for the April 30th - May 1st holiday will help alleviate congestion at existing terminals while improving passenger service quality. This is especially important given the anticipated surge in air travel demand during this holiday period.
The Vietnam Civil Aviation Authority is also coordinating with relevant units to ensure aviation security and safety during the operation of Terminal 3. Security and safety measures will be strengthened to ensure peace of mind for passengers and stakeholders.
