According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam, Etihad Airways commenced a limited commercial flight schedule between Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE), and several major destinations. Specifically, from 14/3 to 20/3, Etihad Airways operated four passenger flights on the Hanoi - Abu Dhabi route, transporting nearly 3,000 passengers. Cargo flights continue as planned.

This expansion follows Emirates' earlier resumption of flights. From 5/3, only Emirates operated flights with limited frequency between Vietnam and Dubai after a portion of the airspace reopened. On 14/3 and 15/3, Emirates performed six round-trip flights connecting Ho Chi Minh City/Hanoi/Da Nang with Dubai, though it canceled the EK364/EK365 flight pair on the Dubai - Ho Chi Minh City route.

Qatar Airways aircraft at Noi Bai Airport. Photo: Phuong Linh

In contrast, among the three Middle Eastern airlines, only Qatar Airways continues to suspend most scheduled flights to and from Hamad International Airport in Doha. The airline recently operated flight QR7351 from Hanoi to Paris on the morning of 15/3, bypassing a transit in Doha, to transport over 400 stranded passengers affected by the Middle East conflict.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam stated that aviation authorities in Middle Eastern countries, such as Qatar, continue to close their airspace to transit flights. Some flights to and from Doha airport are only permitted to operate in limited numbers and require prior approval from Qatar.

Similarly, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is enforcing rigorous air traffic control measures, with certain airspace areas remaining restricted or partially closed.

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has also significantly strained the aviation fuel market. Jet A-1 prices in Asia remain high, fluctuating around 195-200 USD per barrel, which is significantly higher than crude oil prices. This represents a doubling compared to 83 USD per barrel in January and 89 USD per barrel in February.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) warns that if fuel prices exceed 200 USD per barrel, airline operating costs could increase by over 70%. In response, many airlines are adjusting prices; for example, India's IndiGo announced a fuel surcharge effective 14/3 for its domestic and international flights.

Doan Loan