In response to the impacts of Typhoon Bualoi (Typhoon No. 10), the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) has issued an emergency directive to temporarily suspend operations at four airports to ensure flight safety.

The airports affected by the order include Dong Hoi, Tho Xuan, Phu Bai, and Da Nang. These are located in central Vietnam, which lies directly in the storm’s projected path.

The CAAV noted that airports such as Tho Xuan, Vinh, and Dong Hoi are expected to be directly affected by the storm, while Phu Bai International Airport and Da Nang International Airport will likely experience strong winds earlier due to the storm’s outer circulation.

Airport closures (local time):

·        Dong Hoi Airport: Closed to aircraft from 1:00 PM to 10:00 PM on September 28

·        Tho Xuan Airport: Closed from 10:00 PM on September 28 to 7:00 AM on September 29

·        Phu Bai International Airport: Closed from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM on September 28

·        Da Nang International Airport: Closed from 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM on September 28

The CAAV instructed all relevant agencies to remain on 24/7 duty, strictly follow procedures for responding to storms and tropical depressions, and continuously monitor meteorological updates to promptly adjust operations as needed.

Heavy rains forecasted after landfall

The authority also warned that although the storm may weaken after landfall, post-storm rainfall could still cause flooding and other dangerous conditions.

For the Vietnam Air Traffic Management Corporation (VATM), the CAAV requested enhanced coordination with meteorological agencies to ensure the accuracy and timely delivery of forecasts and warnings.

Airlines and aviation service providers were urged to remain in close contact, adjust flight schedules appropriately, and protect passengers and property. Northern and Central airport authorities were directed to oversee local response plans and maintain constant communication in all scenarios.

Flight delays and cancellations across multiple airlines

To prioritize passenger and crew safety amid Typhoon Bualoi’s complex developments, multiple Vietnamese carriers have adjusted their flight schedules for September 28.

Vietnam Airlines announced several schedule changes for flights to and from Dong Hoi:

·        VN1597 (Hanoi – Dong Hoi) and VN1404 (Ho Chi Minh City – Dong Hoi) were rescheduled to depart at 5:30 AM

·        VN1590 (Dong Hoi – Hanoi) now departs at 7:10 AM

·        VN1405 (Dong Hoi – Ho Chi Minh City) departs at 7:45 AM

At Tho Xuan Airport,

·        VN7270 (Ho Chi Minh City – Tho Xuan) was rescheduled to 7:00 AM

·        VN7271 (Tho Xuan – Ho Chi Minh City) to 9:25 AM

In addition, all Vietnam Airlines flights to and from Phu Bai Airport (Hue) were canceled on September 28. Operations at Da Nang International Airport were also suspended until noon.

Vietjet Air similarly suspended multiple flights, including:

·        Dong Hoi Airport: VJ260 and VJ261 (Ho Chi Minh City – Dong Hoi – Ho Chi Minh City)

·        Tho Xuan Airport: All flights halted from 10:00 PM on September 27 to 7:00 AM on September 28

·        Phu Bai Airport (Hue): VJ1318/VJ1319, VJ318/VJ319 (Ho Chi Minh City – Hue – Ho Chi Minh City), and VJ563/VJ560 (Hanoi – Hue – Hanoi)

·        Da Nang Airport: Ten flights canceled, including

 Hanoi – Da Nang – Hanoi: VJ547/VJ548, VJ1501/VJ1504, VJ545/VJ546

Ho Chi Minh City – Da Nang – Ho Chi Minh City: VJ1632/VJ1623, VJ1644/VJ1633

Airlines are urging passengers to stay updated via official channels and adjust travel plans in line with weather developments.

N. Huyen