According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV), the evolving security situation in parts of the Middle East has led to stricter airspace management measures, continuing to affect flight operations between Vietnam and the region.

Qatar Airways postponed six passenger flights on the Ho Chi Minh City–Doha and Hanoi–Doha routes on March 17, affecting nearly 1,400 travelers.

Emirates also announced plans to suspend flights EK364 and EK365 between Dubai and Ho Chi Minh City until March 25.

Meanwhile, Etihad Airways is still scheduled to operate flights EY431 and EY433 between Hanoi and Abu Dhabi, carrying nearly 500 passengers. Cargo flights on this route are continuing as planned.

Turkish Airlines continues to operate regular passenger services, although its cargo flights are being rerouted to avoid parts of Middle Eastern airspace.

The CAAV said the ongoing disruptions are mainly due to tightened regional airspace restrictions. Under Notices to Air Missions (NOTAM) A0556/26, the Doha Flight Information Region (FIR) was completely closed from 14:00 UTC on March 15 to 02:59 UTC on March 16, with exceptions only for pre-approved state, medical and search-and-rescue flights.

Subsequently, NOTAM A0558/26 maintained restrictions on transit flights through the Doha FIR from 03:00 UTC to 14:00 UTC on March 16.

In the United Arab Emirates, several airspace zones also remain restricted or partially closed, forcing airlines to extend flight times, adjust routes or suspend services.

Vietnam’s aviation authorities said they are continuing to monitor the situation and coordinate with airlines to minimise disruptions for passengers.

Middle East disruptions affect more than 3,000 passengers on Vietnam flights

VOV.VN - Conflict in the Middle East has kept parts of the region’s airspace under restrictions, forcing several airlines to adjust flight schedules. In just a few days in mid-March, more than 3,000 passengers on flights between the Middle East and Vietnam were affected.