Vietnam Airlines' Flight Adjustments
Vietnam Airlines will be reducing its flight operations starting April 1, with a total of 23 weekly domestic flights affected.
The decision comes as a result of the escalating conflict in the Middle East, which has led to a significant increase in jet fuel prices and concerns over fuel availability.
Impact on Aviation
The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam stated that the limited supply of aviation fuel (Jet A-1) poses a risk of shortages for domestic carriers, necessitating the suspension of certain routes.
Despite the cuts, major domestic and international routes will continue to operate. However, Vietnamese airlines are considering implementing fuel surcharges on international flights, which may come into effect in April.
Regional Fuel Crisis
Vietnam has sought fuel assistance from various countries, including Qatar, Kuwait, Algeria, and Japan. On Monday, Vietnam and Russia signed an agreement on oil and gas production, aiming to address the fuel shortage.
The crisis has caused a 50% and 70% surge in 95-octane petrol and diesel prices, respectively, since the conflict's onset in late February.
In response, Vietnam's Finance Ministry proposed halving the environmental protection tax on gasoline and diesel. The tax on aviation fuel is also set to be reduced.
Similarly, Myanmar's national carrier has announced domestic flight cancellations, while United Airlines is scaling back its operations due to the rising cost of jet fuel.