Vietnam Aviation Sector Sees Double-Digit Growth in Early 2026, ACV Benefits

Overview

Vietnam’s aviation sector recorded strong double-digit growth in the first four months of 2026, with passenger traffic through airports reaching over 46 million, up 18% year-on-year. Cargo throughput also rose 17% to 616,000 tonnes. The positive data supports the outlook for Tổng Công ty Cảng Hàng không Việt Nam (ACV), the country’s primary airport operator, which is also taking steps to enhance safety amid drone-related incidents.

Key Facts

• Total passenger traffic through Vietnamese airports in the first four months of 2026 reached over 46 million, up 18% year-on-year.
• International passengers accounted for 19 million (up 22%), while domestic passengers reached 27 million (up 15%).
• Cargo throughput at airports totaled 616,000 tonnes, a 17% increase from the same period in 2025.
• Vietnamese airlines carried nearly 21 million passengers, up 12%, with international passengers at 7 million (up 6%) and domestic at 14 million (up 15%).
• No serious accidents (Level A, B, or C) occurred in aircraft operations during the period.
• Four drone incidents near Đà Nẵng International Airport and Cát Bi Airport affected flight operations, prompting ACV to issue directives to enhance airspace safety.

What Happened

According to data from the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV), the country’s aviation sector experienced robust growth in the first four months of 2026. Total passenger throughput at airports exceeded 46 million, driven by a 22% surge in international traffic. Cargo volumes also expanded strongly, rising 17% to 616,000 tonnes. Vietnamese airlines reported a 12% increase in passenger numbers, with domestic routes leading growth at 15%.

On the safety front, the CAAV reported no major accidents but noted four drone incidents near Đà Nẵng and Cát Bi airports that posed serious threats to flight operations. In response, ACV issued a directive to strengthen airspace safety measures, including coordination with local authorities to monitor and prevent unauthorized drone activity.

Market Context

ACV shares closed at VND 46,000 on April 14, 2026, up 0.43% on low volume of 222,100 shares. The stock trades on HOSE and has been supported by steady recovery in air travel post-pandemic. The latest traffic data reinforces the positive trend for airport operators, though drone-related safety risks could introduce operational disruptions. The broader Vietnamese market has been mixed, with aviation stocks benefiting from tourism recovery.

Strategic Significance

For ACV, the double-digit growth in passenger and cargo traffic underscores the structural demand for air travel in Vietnam, driven by rising incomes and tourism. The company’s focus on safety, particularly in addressing drone threats, is critical to maintaining operational reliability and avoiding costly disruptions. As the sole operator of major international airports, ACV is well-positioned to capture long-term growth in aviation, but must manage regulatory and security challenges to sustain momentum.

What to Watch

• Monthly traffic data from CAAV for May and June 2026 to confirm sustained growth.
• ACV’s Q2 2026 earnings release, expected in July, for revenue and profit impact.
• Further drone incidents or regulatory actions that could affect airport operations.
• Updates on ACV’s capital expenditure plans for airport expansion and safety upgrades.
• Foreign ownership trends in ACV, given its strategic importance.