Vietnam is preparing to welcome almost 800,000 international travelers during its Reunification Day holiday. The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) announced that the country will see a sharp rise in air traffic from April 30 to May 4. Airports across the country are getting ready for about 5,000 international flights, with Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City expected to be the busiest.
Surge in International Arrivals
During the five-day holiday, Vietnam is forecast to host 792,000 international visitors. This marks a 20% increase in flights compared to the same period in 2024. On average, there will be 830 international flights each day.
Key airports like Tan Son Nhat, Noi Bai, Da Nang, Cam Ranh, and Phu Quoc will handle most of the international arrivals. Among them, Tan Son Nhat in Ho Chi Minh City is expected to see the highest volume.
Domestic Travel Also on the Rise
Domestically, Ho Chi Minh City is the country’s busiest travel hub. Tan Son Nhat Airport alone will handle about 70% of all domestic flights. Over the holiday, the airport is expected to run more than 5,000 domestic flights.
The Hanoi–Ho Chi Minh City air route remains the most popular. More than 1,200 flights are planned between the two cities, up 16% from last year.
Across Vietnam, airlines will operate over 7,500 domestic flights and offer about 1.5 million seats. This represents a 21% jump in available capacity compared to 2024.
Airports Expand Operations
To manage the high demand, Tan Son Nhat Airport is boosting operations. The airport will increase its flight handling capacity from 40–42 flights per hour to 46 flights per hour between 6 a.m. and 11 p.m.
Airlines such as Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air are also stepping up. Both carriers are increasing their schedules, especially night flights. They are adding about 20% more night flights to meet the demand.
Although Tan Son Nhat’s new Terminal T3 has been completed earlier than planned, most domestic flights for Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air will continue operating from the existing Terminal T1 for now.
Hanoi’s Noi Bai Prepares for Holiday Rush
Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi is also preparing for a busy period. On peak days, it will handle up to 370 domestic flights and serve around 68,000 passengers.
To improve efficiency, Noi Bai has launched biometric identification for travelers. The new technology uses the VNeID mobile app to speed up check-ins and security processes. This system is expected to ease congestion and save time for passengers.
Strong Tourism Rebound
Vietnam’s tourism sector has been growing steadily after the COVID-19 pandemic. Events like the Reunification Day holiday boost both domestic and international travel.
Many visitors come from nearby countries such as China, South Korea, and Thailand. The increase in flights and travelers shows Vietnam’s rising popularity as a tourist destination in Southeast Asia.
According to CAAV, international airlines have also increased flights to Vietnam to match demand. Cities like Bangkok, Seoul, Tokyo, and Singapore remain popular routes for incoming tourists.
Airline Tips and Travel Advice
Travel experts recommend that passengers arrive at airports early, especially during the peak holiday period. Long lines at check-in and security are expected. Travelers are also advised to use airline mobile apps or online check-in to avoid delays.
Passengers using biometric verification through VNeID should register early and keep their app updated for smooth travel.
Future Airport Upgrades
Vietnam continues to invest in airport infrastructure. After the recent early completion of Tan Son Nhat’s Terminal T3, other airports like Long Thanh International Airport near Ho Chi Minh City are also under construction.
Once completed, these upgrades are expected to support Vietnam’s goal of becoming a top destination in Asia.
