The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) has authorized Qatar Airways to operate a total of three combined flights on the route connecting Doha, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City from March 24 to 29, 2026. The decision comes amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which has temporarily closed Qatari airspace.
These flights are designed to avoid the Hanoi–Ho Chi Minh City segment for domestic passengers. Instead, they will focus on transporting passengers impacted by the regional unrest, along with cargo and parcels, as part of efforts to resume normal air traffic between Qatar and Vietnam gradually.
Impact on International and Domestic Flights
Reports from Vietnam Airlines indicate that international passenger traffic to Vietnam has largely remained stable, with a surge in arrivals from Europe during this period. Meanwhile, airfares on international routes have increased by more than 15% year-on-year since the conflict escalated, particularly on routes to Europe, Australia, and the United States.
"Vietnam has maintained stable international passenger flow, with increased European arrivals as travelers seek to avoid Middle Eastern routes," said officials from CAAV.
Domestic fares have also experienced fluctuations, rising 15-23% after initial declines earlier this year, influenced by the conflict’s impact on regional travel.
The specific operational restrictions and the regional instability continue to affect flight schedules and route planning in the region, with ongoing disruptions reported across Middle Eastern airspace.
