Vietnam’s aviation targets 300 million passengers by 2030
Vietnam’s aviation sector is undergoing a major transformation, focusing on modernization, fleet expansion, and enhancing competitiveness in global markets.
THE HANOI TIMES — The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) announced its goal for airports to handle 300 million passengers annually by 2030, an increase of 2.5 times the projected number for 2025.
Vietnam Airlines, the national flag carrier. Photo courtesy of the airline
To serve the rising passengers, the sector will expand the national commercial aircraft fleet to over 400 units by 2030, develop intercontinental routes, and establish major air transit hubs in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, stated a CAAV report on August 5.
According to the authority, safety remains a standout strength of Vietnam's aviation industry. A comprehensive safety audit conducted in 2024 by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) showed that Vietnam achieved a performance score exceeding 78%, surpassing the global benchmark of 75%.
CAAV Director Uong Viet Dung revealed that the country’s civil aviation sector has not recorded any major accidents in nearly three decades, reflecting effective safety management.
Vietnam currently has 13 commercial airlines. Over the past five years, the market has welcomed new entrants such as Vietravel Airlines, BlueSky Airways, and Sun Phu Quoc Airways.
Among these newcomers, Vietravel Airlines distinguishes itself with plans to expand its fleet to 30–50 aircraft by 2030 and extend its route network across Southeast Asia, Northeast Asia, and the Middle East.
Notably, the airline transitioned from leasing to owning aircraft to enhance efficiency and sustainability, with strong backing from the main stakeholder, T&T Group.
To support its expansion plan, Vietravel Airlines raised VND2.6 trillion (US$99 million) to grow its fleet, upgrade technology, enhance maintenance infrastructure, and train high-quality personnel, in addition to providing air cargo and aviation logistics.
