Hanoi (VNA) – Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has issued a directive demending aviation safety and security measures be strengthened following several incidents that have raised alarm bells for the rapidly expanding sector post-pandemic.

The directive, released on August 12, noted that Vietnam's civil aviation industry has experienced robust growth after the COVID-19 pandemic, serving 75.5 million passengers and handling 1.29 million tonnes of cargo in 2024, up 4% and 21% year-on-year, respectively. In the first half of 2025, the passenger number expanded by 10.6%, and the cargo volumes 15.1% from a year earlier. Compared to the same period of the pre-pandemic peak in 2019, the H1 figures reflect continued momentum with a 6.3% rise in passengers and 14.6% in cargo.

However, recent incidents, most notably a collision involving two aircraft at Noi Bai International Airport, have raised concerns about operational safety. Besides, the Government cited prolonged flight cancellations and delays that have disrupted airport security and public order, alongside cyberattacks on airline websites leaking customer data.

The PM highlighted that competent sides must never trade aviation safety and security for any reason, stating no violation is minor and even small errors could habour the potential for catastrophic accidents.

He ordered that the aviation safety and security management system must meet international standards while complying with domestic legal frameworks. Meanwhile, communications work must be stepped up to raise authorities, businesses, and their staff's awareness of the aviation safety culture.

Digitisation and the application of advanced technologies must be accelerated to strengthen management. Authorities are urged to share safety-related data among aviation units, facilitate smoother operations, and improve efficiency for passengers and businesses alike.

The Ministry of Construction has been tasked with conducting a comprehensive review and refinement of aviation safety legislation to align with relevant international treaties.

The directive calls for upgrade of aviation infrastructure to ensure operational safety, and enhanced safety inspection mechanisms, including improving the capacity of aviation safety inspectors in line with the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s standards.

It emphasises regular and surprise safety inspections of airlines, flight service providers, and airports to improve service quality and ensure aviation safety. Harsh punishments must be meted out to any violations that threaten aviation safety.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Public Security has been tasked with leading efforts to thwart terrorism and disruption plots targeting airports, aircraft, and aviation infrastructure. The ministry will also spearhead the development of inter-agency coordination regulations for aviation security suitable to the new situation and practical requirements. Regular training courses and anti-interference drills should be organised while high-tech solutions liks AI and biometric recognition will be deployed to strengthen aviation security inspection.

The Ministry of National Defence is responsible for updating regulations on the management of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), tighten control over restricted airspace, and respond to unauthorised drone activity.

Local governments must crack down on threats near airports, including high-power light sources, laser pointers, kite flying, UAVs, other flying vehicles, and wildlife.

The Government leader ordered the Vietnam News Agency, the Voice of Vietnam, and the Vietnam Television to work closely with competent sides to raise public awareness of aviation safety and culture.

🎉 Vietnamese airlines are required to strictly follow safety protocols, improve service quality, and ensure on-time performance. Aviation staff must comply with all operational regulations, while weather forecasting and flight monitoring systems must be upgraded to ensure accurate and timely information./.