On the evening of 12/1, Tan Son Nhat International Terminal was bustling with people awaiting relatives returning for Tet. Security staff noted that the terminal is busy all day, peaking at night, in the two weeks leading up to Tet.

Flights from the US, Canada, Australia, South Korea, and Japan landed continuously. On 12/2, the international terminal handled about 170 flights and over 29,600 passengers arriving for Tet.

The baggage claim area often experienced congestion, with passengers waiting 30 minutes to one hour for their luggage.

Outside the lobby, hundreds waited for relatives, with security personnel using ropes to manage crowds and prevent them from obstructing passenger walkways.

Kim Cuong, 60, and her two younger siblings waited over two hours for their brother, who returned from Canada after 27 years. "He left when he was young; it's been almost 30 years since we last met", Ms. Cuc stated.

Many waved and called out, recognizing relatives from afar.

Dao Quang Thinh, 74, from Binh Duong, was visibly emotional as he reunited with a relative after more than 20 years. "Nothing brings more joy than meeting family during Tet", Mr. Thinh shared.

Mai, from District 12, emotionally embraced a relative after more than 20 years apart.

Security personnel were on duty, reminding greeters to stay clear of passenger walkways to prevent crowding and chaos.

As night progressed, continuous flight arrivals led to an increasing number of greeters. Tong cong ty Quan ly bay Viet Nam reported over 1,050 domestic and international flights on 12/2, an unprecedented volume.

Thanh Tung