Vietnam Airlines plans to suspend select domestic flights starting April 1 due to jet fuel shortages and escalating prices triggered by Middle East tensions.
Flight Reductions Across Major Carriers
The national carrier will eliminate approximately 23 flights weekly amid tightening fuel supplies, according to aviation regulators. VietJet Air is also scaling back operations on key routes, as reflected in updated booking schedules.
Bamboo Airways aims to sustain services during peak travel seasons but warns of reduced frequencies if oil prices remain elevated. The airline urges government intervention, including cuts to environmental protection taxes and aviation fuel levies.
Roots of the Fuel Supply Disruption
Global energy disruptions stemming from Middle East conflicts have impacted oil and gas transit through the Strait of Hormuz, driving up costs and limiting availability. Vietnam relies on two domestic refineries for about 70% of its fuel needs, yet over 80% of crude oil imports originate from the Middle East.
Around 70% of jet fuel comes from imports, primarily China and Thailand. Aviation authorities have cautioned that shortages could intensify from early April, with suppliers potentially delaying shipments or activating force majeure provisions.
Broader Southeast Asia Impact
In the region, Cebu Pacific Air announces similar flight reductions from April, citing surging fuel costs linked to the ongoing Middle East crisis. Tourists should anticipate broader travel disruptions across Vietnam’s domestic network.
