aviation authority explains increase in air fares picture 1
The number of domestic passengers traveling by air see a sharp decrease in the first quarter of 2024 due to high air fares. (Photo: Thach Thao/Vietnamnet)

According to the CAAV, since the beginning of the year the average price of an economy class ticket on some routes (including taxes and fees) offered by domestic airlines has increased compared to the same period from 2023. However, the adjustments are still within the regulated ceiling price range.

The CAAV went on to reveal that the reason for the increase in air ticket prices is due to hikes occurring in fuel prices, exchange rates, engine recall by Pratt & Whitney (PW) for their PW1100 engines on Airbus A321Neo aircraft, and the increase in airplane rental prices.

To minimise negative impacts on operations and meet the needs of passengers for air travel, the CAAV has called on airlines to develop contingency plans and review procedures aimed at reducing aircraft turnaround time, increasing nighttime flights, and introducing wide-body aircraft for operations.

It also recommended that passengers should have travel plans, buy tickets through official channels, actively stay updated with information about airlines' operating plans to make arrangements, and choose reasonable ticket prices.

Earlier, the Ministry of Transport requested the CAAV to provide an explanation of the sharp increase in air ticket prices, especially during the recent five-day holiday period from April 27 to May 1.

High domestic airfares forced many families to choose outbound tours to neighbouring countries. Many travel agencies were worried that such a move could reduce the Vietnamese tourism industry’s competitiveness.

VOV