Vietnam urges airlines to restore, expand domestic routes

　　HANOI, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) has issued a document urging domestic airlines to restore suspended routes, increase flight frequencies and explore new direct connections between local airports, local media VnEconomy reported Monday.

　　The authority asked airlines to review their existing and suspended domestic routes, prioritize the resumption of services with passenger demand and tourism potential, and consider launching new routes linking economic and tourism hubs, according to the report.

　　The move is expected to strengthen interregional connectivity, reduce travel time and costs, lessen reliance on connecting flights through major hub airports, and support local socio-economic development, said the report.

　　Airlines were also encouraged to coordinate with local authorities, airport operators and tourism businesses to assess market demand, promote destinations and develop sustainable air services.

　　The CAAV requested airlines to submit detailed plans by Nov. 10, outlining proposed route resumptions, new services and frequency increases, along with implementation schedules for late 2026 and 2027, fleet arrangements and assessments of market demand. ■