Vietnam's aviation industry recorded continued growth during the first six months of 2026, supported by rising international passenger demand, although authorities warned that infrastructure constraints, aircraft shortages and global supply chain disruptions remain significant challenges.
According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV), international passenger traffic reached 26.2 million travellers in the first half of the year, an increase of 15.4 per cent compared with the same period in 2025. Domestic passenger numbers totalled 18.7 million, up 0.3 per cent year on year.
On domestic routes, Vietnamese carriers currently operate 54 routes linking Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and 20 airports across the country.
Internationally, Vietnamese airlines operate 109 scheduled routes serving 22 countries and territories, while foreign airlines from 41 countries and territories fly 235 scheduled routes to Vietnam.
CAAV data also showed that 280 aircraft are currently registered under the Vietnamese flag, an increase of 18 aircraft compared with 2025. However, 17 Airbus A321neo aircraft remain grounded in long-term storage because of shortages of Pratt & Whitney engines, six fewer than a year earlier.
The aviation authority said the rapid expansion of Vietnam's air travel market, particularly during peak travel periods, continues to place heavy pressure on airport infrastructure, airspace capacity, aircraft availability, aviation personnel, maintenance services, air traffic management and ground handling operations.
The sector also continues to face headwinds from volatile fuel prices, shortages of aircraft engines and spare parts, and ongoing geopolitical tensions, all of which require airlines and regulators to strengthen risk assessment, manage operational changes and develop more resilient operating plans.
"Despite these challenges, Vietnam's civil aviation sector has maintained strong growth, meeting rising transport demand while ensuring the highest standards of aviation safety," CAAV said.
