International operations remained the key growth driver, helping Vietnam Airlines sustain double-digit revenue growth in the first half of 2026. — Photo courtesy of the airline

HÀ NỘI — National flag carrier Vietnam Airlines reported strong business results for the first half of 2026, with consolidated revenue rising more than 28 per cent year-on-year despite continued challenges facing the global aviation industry.

The airline said on Wednesday that it generated consolidated revenue of VNĐ75.3 trillion (US$2.9 billion) in the first six months of the year, up more than 28 per cent from the same period in 2025. Its consolidated profit reached VNĐ3.85 trillion.

Parent company revenue totalled VNĐ56.3 trillion, an increase of nearly 19 per cent year-on-year, while profit reached VNĐ2.88 trillion.

The results came as airlines worldwide continued to face geopolitical uncertainty, rising fuel prices and higher operating costs.

Vietnam Airlines said its strong first quarter performance helped offset pressure in the second quarter, when fuel prices surged following tensions in the Middle East. The carrier said flexible operational planning and cost management enabled it to maintain stable operations and remain profitable.

During the first half of the year, Vietnam Airlines operated more than 80,000 flights and carried over 13 million passengers, up 4 per cent from a year earlier. Cargo volume exceeded 180,000 tonnes, a 10 per cent increase year-on-year.

International services remained the main growth driver. The airline transported nearly 4.8 million international passengers during the first six months, up 18.8 per cent, reflecting continued recovery in overseas travel demand and the impact of its network expansion strategy.

The carrier launched new international routes to Amsterdam in the Netherlands and Phuket in Thailand, while increasing frequencies on key routes including Singapore, Manila, Moscow, Kaohsiung, Melbourne and Sydney.

According to July 2026 data from the Official Airline Guide, Vietnam Airlines ranked first in Southeast Asia by seat capacity, offering 2.84 million seats.

The airline said the results reflected continued double-digit revenue growth and demonstrated its ability to sustain operational efficiency despite a challenging market environment. It added that expanding connectivity supported trade, tourism and investment while reinforcing its role as the national carrier.

During the period, Vietnam Airlines received several international recognitions, including rankings by AirlineRatings among the world's safest and best full-service airlines, while Cirium named it one of the Asia-Pacific's most punctual carriers. The airline was also recognised by Brand Finance and Viet Research for its brand strength and environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance.

Vietnam Airlines said it would continue monitoring market developments and fuel price movements while maintaining its target of double-digit growth for the second half of 2026.

The airline plans to further expand its international network, strengthen cost management, improve service quality and accelerate digital transformation, including wider adoption of software systems and artificial intelligence to improve operational efficiency and enhance the customer experience.

It will also continue implementing major investment projects, including the acquisition of 50 new-generation narrow-body aircraft and investments related to Long Thành International Airport. — VNS