The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) has asked the Ministry of Transport to shorten the time that Noi Bai International Airport should be closed to landings and takeoffs to meet the increasing flow of passengers after the partial reopening of international air routes.  

The project to upgrade and repair the runway at Noi Bai International Airport. Photo: Song Ngoc

The CAAV said the flight frequency has increased recently while the operating capacity of the airport can only ensure a maximum of 25 flights per hour, resulting in more flight delays, especially in peak hours.

Meanwhile, the progress of for the runway repair is on schedule. Therefore, the CAAV requested the Ministry of Transport to close the airport only between 0:30am and 6:00am, instead of 0:30am at 6:30am.

The shortening of the shutdown will help local airlines operate more effectively when international air services are gradually resumed in the context of Covid-19 being under control.

Previously, the CAAV decided to adjust the time that the airport remains suspended from 0:30am to 6:30am from September 1, 2020 to January 31, 2021 for repair.

The authority has also directed Noi Bai International Airport and Vietnam Air Traffic Management Corporation to create the most favorable conditions for construction units.

The project to upgrade and repair the runway at Noi Bai International Airport with total investment of over VND2 trillion (US$86.3 million) started on June 26. The construction is expected to be completed before the lunar New Year festival 2021.