A report by global market research and consulting firm Mordor Intelligence indicates that over 1,4 billion global passengers flew with low-cost carriers (LCCs) in 2025, a nearly 10% increase from the previous year. Average satisfaction with LCCs reached 7,3/10, demonstrating a clear improvement in the flying experience.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) forecasts that in 2026, despite industry challenges, global air passenger numbers will continue to surpass records, reaching 5,2 billion.

Mordor Intelligence predicts that the surge in travel demand will lead to strong growth for low-cost carriers (LCCs), as more passengers choose their tickets during the peak year-end period. Beyond offering affordable fares, LCCs also feature extensive route networks at secondary airports, high flight frequencies, and significant flexibility on short to medium-haul routes.

Passengers queueing for a Vietjet flight. Photo: Tai Nguyen

In Vietnam, the aviation market began its early preparation for the Lunar New Year 2026 peak season, with a wave of ticket bookings starting in September. Vietjet was the first domestic airline to open sales for Tet Binh Ngo 2026 tickets on 28/8. The airline is providing approximately 2,5 million domestic and international tickets for the period from 3/2 to 2/3/2026, corresponding to the 16th day of the 12th lunar month to the 13th day of the 1st lunar month.

Many passengers are shifting to early ticket hunting, taking advantage of LCC promotional programs to save costs. Nguyen Thu Van from TP HCM stated that this year she secured Vietjet tickets 20% cheaper than last year by following a promotion on 12/12. "Every year, when we bought close to the date, tickets for my husband and I for Tet could cost over 20 million dong. This year, booking early saved us significantly", she said.

Similarly, Hoang Quoc Dung from Dong Nai shared that he bought Vietjet tickets for the Ho Chi Minh City - Hanoi route for his family to return to their hometown in Bac Ninh. "The price was lower than the general market, and I heard the airline is adding more aircraft for Tet, so I feel confident waiting for the flight day", he said.

Vietjet passengers receiving assistance from airline staff. Photo: Tai Nguyen

Vietjet is currently implementing many major promotional programs: 0-dong tickets during specific time slots, double-day promotions, a series of mega-mini livestreams to "hunt" for millions of 0-dong tickets, along with Tet ticket packages including exclusive gifts. Additionally, the airline has expanded its SkyBoss and Deluxe ticket classes to meet flexible demands, offering lounge services, baggage, meals, and private shuttle services.

The airline is also adding 22 aircraft to serve the peak season, while self-handling ground services at Tan Son Nhat airport, optimizing operations and reducing congestion during peak hours. A Vietjet representative stated that Tet is the busiest period for the aviation industry, so early planning helps passengers easily secure budget tickets, ready for reunion flights and spring travel.

Thai Anh