Vietnam's aviation sector is experiencing a robust recovery following pandemic-related setbacks, with 2025 showing significant increases in both passenger and cargo movements. The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) reported that from January to November, the industry handled approximately 69.3 million passengers and 1.2 million tonnes of cargo, with year-over-year growth of 10.8% and 18.5%, respectively. Domestic travel accounted for 30.9 million passengers, up 7.4%, while international travelers reached 38.4 million, up 13.6%.
Looking ahead, the CAAV predicts that the full year will see 84 million passengers and 1.4 million tonnes of cargo, with further expansion projected for 2026—aiming for 95 million passengers and 1.6 million tonnes of cargo. These optimistic forecasts are supported by macroeconomic stability, infrastructural improvements such as the development of Long Thành International Airport, and upgrades to Gia Bình and Phú Quốc airports. Industry leaders emphasize that removing infrastructure bottlenecks and incentivizing airlines will be essential to sustaining growth.
Future Outlook and Challenges
The authority also highlights potential challenges, including geopolitical tensions and fuel price volatility, which could impact the sector's trajectory. A recent SHS Security report suggests that with continued growth of 5-6% annually, Vietnam's aviation market could serve up to 200 million passengers by 2040, more than doubling pre-pandemic levels.
Currently, Vietnam operates 22 airports, including nine international and 13 domestic, with a combined capacity of 106.5 million passengers annually. The country's master plan envisions increasing this to 33 airports by 2030, with a total capacity of roughly 276 million passengers and over 4 million tonnes of cargo throughput.
