Vietnamese carriers told to avoid flying over high-risk areas in Middle East

Vietnamese carriers told to avoid flying over high-risk areas in Middle East

Việt Nam has tightened aviation oversight, directing carriers to reassess international routes and prepare contingency plans as instability in the Middle East disrupts global air travel.

Aircraft of Vietjet Air and Vietnam Airlines are seen parked at Nội Bài International Airport in Hà Nội. Vietnamese carriers have been instructed to avoid flying through high-risk airspace in the Middle East amid escalating regional tensions. — VNA/VNS Photo

Vietnamese carriers have been ordered to avoid operating flights through areas and airspace deemed unsafe in the Middle East as military tensions continue to escalate in parts of the region.

The directive was issued by the Ministry of Construction, which oversees the transport sector, to safeguard civil aviation operations amid a fluid security environment.

According to the ministry, hostilities in parts of the Middle East remain complex and unpredictable, disrupting international air transport – particularly routes to, from and over conflict-affected or restricted zones.

Airlines must review flight plans and carry out comprehensive safety risk assessments for international routes that could be impacted. They are also required to regularly update information from competent state agencies, the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam, the International Civil Aviation Organization, and relevant foreign aviation authorities to inform operational decisions.

Carriers have been urged to strengthen safety management, proactively adjust schedules and select alternative routes to ensure the safety of aircraft, crew and passengers. They must also fully inform passengers of any schedule changes resulting from security concerns.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam has been tasked with closely monitoring regional and global aviation security developments – particularly in the Middle East – and issuing timely operational guidance in line with evolving conditions.

The authority is also required to tighten oversight of flight safety in situations involving risks from armed conflicts, while enhancing coordination with domestic and foreign aviation bodies to respond swiftly to emerging developments.

Meanwhile, the Vietnam Air Traffic Management Corporation will monitor regional flight operations and prepare appropriate air traffic management plans, ensuring adequate operational information and timely support for airlines while maintaining uninterrupted air navigation services.

The Airports Corporation of Vietnam and airport operators nationwide have been instructed to allocate resources in response to flight changes, cancellations or rerouting, coordinate with airlines to assist affected passengers, and ensure safety and security at airports. 

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