Vietnam’s Airports Experiencing Significant Increase in Passenger Numbers
The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam has reported a 23.7% increase in passenger traffic through airports in February compared to the same period in 2023, reaching a total of 10.7 million passengers. Of these, international and domestic passengers reached 3.65 million and 7.1 million respectively, representing an increase of 59.1% and 11.8%.
Notably, Vietnamese airlines transported 5.1 million passengers (1.6 million international and 3.54 million domestic), a 21.6% increase.
Nội Bài Airport crowded during the pre-Tet period. Photo: NIA.
Cargo volume through airports also showed signs of growth with 139.8 thousand tons, a 54.2% increase compared to February 2023, and a 13.1% increase compared to January 2024. International cargo volume reached 92.3 thousand tons, and domestic cargo reached 47.5 thousand tons.
During the Lunar New Year holiday, the number of passengers at Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City reached its peak. For instance, on February 17th, the airport operated 969 flights carrying over 154,000 passengers, predominantly on domestic routes. This was the highest number at Tan Son Nhat International Airport since the peak of the Lunar New Year period.
Up to now, flight tickets from provinces and cities to Tan Son Nhat airport continue to be scarce. Many routes are sold out, while some still have very few tickets available, mostly at premium business class prices, making it unaffordable for the general public.
On February 21st, the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam sent a notification to Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet, Bamboo Airways, Pacific Airlines, and Vietravel Airlines requesting a report on airline ticket sales during the Lunar New Year in 2024. Airlines are required to submit their reports in accordance with Circular 17/2019 no later than February 26th.
In other news, according to an announcement from the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam, several airlines have temporarily suspended engine inspections and repairs. A total of 44 Airbus A321 Neo aircraft operated by domestic airlines are subject to a recall of engines manufactured by Pratt & Whitney (USA) to ensure safety. Vietnam Airlines has 20 aircraft affected, while Vietjet Air has 24 aircraft.
A group of 8 aircraft has been grounded for engine removal for maintenance at Vietnam Airlines’ maintenance facility. The number of aircraft required to be grounded and engines removed for repairs continues to increase.
