Heavy rain and strong winds forced significant delays at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi on May 23, causing disruptions to numerous flights operated by Vietnam Airlines and VietJet Air.
National carrier Vietnam Airlines announced delays to several international services, including flight VN587 from Kaohsiung and VN579 from Taoyuan, both bound for Hanoi. A number of domestic flights were also affected, such as VN208 and VN244 from Ho Chi Minh City, VN1640 from Quang Nam, VN164 from Danang, VN1572 from Da Lat, VN1602 from Buon Ma Thuot, and VN1614 from Pleiku.
Additional Vietnam Airlines services were delayed due to knock-on effects, including VN7170 and VN7156 on the Danang–Hanoi route, VN1590 (Dong Hoi–Hanoi), VN512 (Hanoi–Beijing), and VN592 (Hanoi–Hong Kong).
Low-cost carrier VietJet Air also rescheduled multiple flights to and from Noi Bai, citing adverse weather conditions. The airline has advised passengers to check flight information and monitor weather alerts before heading to the airport.
According to the National Centre for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting, Hanoi is expected to experience moderate to heavy rain and scattered thunderstorms through May 24. Rainfall levels may range from 60 to 120 millimetres, with some areas potentially exceeding 180 millimetres. Authorities have also warned of possible whirlwinds, lightning, and hail.
Airlines are closely monitoring the situation and working to minimize inconvenience for passengers.