Speaking to Dantri/Dtinews Newspaper, Dao Duc Vu, deputy chief executive of the newly-established Sun PhuQuoc Airways, said fuel accounts for 30-40 per cent of operating costs, posing significant challenges as oil prices climb.
“The biggest challenge is supply stability amid geopolitical uncertainty. Any disruption in fuel logistics could directly affect flight operations, even forcing schedule changes if contingency plans are not in place,” Vu said, warning of potential impacts on passenger confidence.
A representative of Vietravel Airlines estimated operating costs have risen by 20-30 per cent compared with the pre conflict period. Despite this, the carrier has maintained stable operations, with seat occupancy reaching around 90 per cent in March.
Airlines roll out countermeasures
To cope with rising fuel costs, Sun PhuQuoc Airways said it is optimising operations by prioritising high load factor routes and adjusting frequencies on less profitable services. The airline is also strengthening fuel risk management, working closely with suppliers to secure stable supply and developing multiple pricing scenarios.
Meanwhile, Vietravel Airlines is coordinating with fuel providers to ensure supply while implementing temporary capacity reductions between April 1 and April 23 to limit cost pressures. The airline continues to operate at least one flight per day on all routes and has notified passengers in advance to minimise disruption.
If fuel prices ease by late April or early May, the carrier plans to increase frequencies on major routes such as Hanoi, HCM City and Danang.
National flag carrier Vietnam Airlines said ticket prices may be adjusted, but changes will be carefully calibrated to balance consumer interests and market competitiveness, while maintaining long term growth.
Nguyen Anh Tuan of the Ministry of Industry and Trade said jet fuel prices have surged since the outbreak of conflict, significantly raising airlines’ operating costs. However, domestic supply has remained stable thanks to government direction and proactive sourcing by suppliers.
“Companies have actively sought additional imports and coordinated distribution to prioritise peak travel periods,” he said.
According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam, airlines carried more than 15 million passengers in the first quarter of 2026, up nearly 10 per cent year on year, including over 10 million domestic and more than 5 million international travellers.
