A passenger does automatic check-in at Nội Bài International Airport, Hà Nội. — VNA/VNS Photo Huy Hùng

HÀ NỘI — Booking rates on domestic routes are unusually low, despite the fact that it is currently peak summer holiday time, according to Civil Aviation Authority of Việt Nam.

Statistics show that during the period from June 15 to July 15, the booking rates for flights from Hà Nội and HCM City to various localities and vice versa are only at an average low level, about 50 per cent on nearby dates and 20-40 per cent on further dates.

Some tourist routes from Hà Nội/HCM City have higher than average rates, such as Hà Nội-Quy Nhơn (80.7 per cent on June 15; 72.5 per cent on June 16), Hà Nội-Phú Quốc (74.9 per cent on June 15), Hà Nội-Nha Trang (73.3 per cent on June 15 and 64.9 per cent on June 16), HCM-Nha Trang (77.7 per cent on June 15), HCM City-Điện Biên (78.3 per cent on June 15).

During the peak summer period, ticket prices on domestic flights have slightly decreased compared to previous times, claimed the aviation authorities.

Passengers are advised to book their flights early and far in advance of their departure date to secure the best prices when there are still various seat options available.

"This is also a way to help airlines allocate their resources, optimise the operations of aircrafts, minimise the risks of flight cancellation and reduce pressures to the airlines when their fleet is being cut down like present," according to a representative from the aviation authority.

Amid complaints of high domestic airfares, airlines have pledged to organise more flights, especially late-hour ones, which bring in many more affordable seats for interested tourists.

However, travel agencies and would-be holidaymakers are not too thrilled about the night flights, as it would mean paying for another day at the hotel, inconvenient transportation options at late hours, or it simply doesn't work for households with elderly people or children.

The night flights are only really suitable during peak New Year holiday times when a lot of people need to return to their hometown.

The national carrier Vietnam Airlines themselves have said that their night flights are not selling well, and about 10 per cent of the night flights in May have been cancelled due to a lack of passengers.

In the first five months of 2024, the total passenger market is estimated to have reached 38.1 million, an increase of 6.7 per cent compared to the same period in 2023 and equal to 98 per cent of the same period in 2019 (pre-pandemic time).

Specifically, the international market reached 21.1 million passengers, up 44.3 per cent compared to the same period in 2022 and up 3 per cent compared to the same period in 2019; while the domestic market reached 17 million passengers, down 19.4 per cent compared to the same period in 2023 and equal to 92 per cent of the same period in 2019. — VNS