Passengers at Nội Bài International Airport in Hà Nội. — VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI — The ongoing conflict between Pakistan and India is affecting international air routes, with several Asian airlines rerouting or cancelling flights to Europe and South Asia.

Director of the Civil Aviation Authority of Việt Nam, Uông Việt Dũng, on May 7 told Vietnam News Agency that coordination of flight routes now concerns aviation security. The Immigration Department under the Ministry of Public Security will issue guidance soon.

Vietnam Airlines on May 7 announced its flight adjustments for the routes between Việt Nam and Europe after Pakistan's Civil Aviation Authority temporarily closed its airspace from 2:55 AM (Vietnam time) on May 7.

On the same day, several flights were rerouted to avoid Pakistani airspace, including VN36 and VN37 between Hà Nội and Frankfurt; VN30 and VN31 between HCM City and Frankfurt; VN10 and VN11 between HCM City and Paris; VN18 and VN19 between Hà Nội and Paris; and VN50 from London to HCM City.

The airline noted that further adjustments may be necessary depending on regional developments. Vietnam Airlines is closely monitoring updates from authorities and will inform passengers of any changes promptly.

Although the rerouting may increase flight times and operational costs, the airline emphasised that ensuring the safety of passengers and crew is its top priority.

That evening, Vietjet, which operates the most flights between Việt Nam and India, announced it would continue operating its Indian routes as planned. The airline said it would monitor situation closely and make adjustments if the conflict between India and Pakistan affect operations.

Vietjet currently connects Việt Nam to major Indian cities such as Mumbai, New Delhi, Hyderabad, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Cochin and Tiruchirappalli. Vietnam Airlines also flies to Bengaluru, New Delhi, Hyderabad, Mumbai and Dubai (UAE).

Regional airlines have begun taking action.

Thai Airways has rerouted its Europe and South Asia flights since early May 7. Korean Air changed its Seoul–Dubai route to avoid Pakistani airspace. Taiwan (China)’s EVA Air and China Airlines are also adjusting routes, with some flights diverted, delayed or cancelled. — BIZHUB/VNS