How Vietnam’s Tan Son Nhat Airport is Preparing for a Record-Breaking Tet Rush – What Travelers Need to Know!

As Vietnam’s most vibrant holiday, Tet (Lunar New Year) approaches, Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City is bracing for a record-breaking surge in passengers. With over 1,000 flights expected to operate on the peak days of February 13 and 14, 2026, this year’s Tet travel rush is anticipated to set new records in both passenger numbers and flight operations. The airport, already Vietnam’s busiest, is putting in place a series of measures to ensure smooth operations during the holiday period.

Increased Passenger Traffic and Record Flight Numbers

During the Tet period (from February 14 to 22), Tan Son Nhat Airport expects to handle approximately 145,000 passengers per day across 940 flights. This marks a 25% increase from the regular traffic levels and represents a 7% rise over the 2025 Tet period. As the Lunar New Year is one of the most important holidays in Vietnam, this increase in traffic is a reflection of the growing significance of the holiday and the heightened mobility of both domestic and international travelers.

The peak days before Tet, namely February 13 and February 14, will see an all-time high, with up to 1,017 flights expected to operate daily. This surge in flight numbers is a direct result of the massive migration of people heading back to their hometowns across the country for family reunions and celebrations. Post-Tet traffic will remain high, with about 1,025 flights operating on February 22 and 23.

Improved Infrastructure and Passenger Experience

To accommodate the massive influx of travelers, Tan Son Nhat is implementing a range of improvements and upgrades at the airport. A key part of this effort is the transition of Vietnam Airlines, Pacific Airlines, Vasco, Bamboo Airways, Vietravel Airlines, and Sun PhuQuoc Airways domestic flights to the new Terminal T3. This is part of the airport’s ongoing effort to expand capacity and improve passenger facilities.

Additionally, Vietjet’s domestic flights will continue to operate at Terminal T1, helping balance the increased demand and ensure smoother passenger flow. Terminal T3 has been equipped with biometric identification and authentication systems to streamline the boarding process, making it quicker and more efficient for travelers.

These changes come as part of the airport’s long-term strategy to upgrade its facilities, enhancing the overall travel experience for passengers. Clear signage has been installed at T3 entrances, directing passengers to the right areas, and upgraded security measures have been implemented to maintain safety and efficiency throughout the busy period.

Preparing for the Holiday Rush: Vietnam Airlines Steps Up Inspections

As part of the preparations for the Tet holiday travel rush, Vietnam Airlines has announced that it will be increasing carry-on baggage inspections. This move is aimed at ensuring that passengers do not exceed the allowed size or weight limits for carry-on luggage, which could otherwise lead to delays or extra fees. Travelers are being advised to pack carefully and check their baggage requirements in advance to avoid disruptions.

With the growing number of travelers, the airline is working to ensure that each flight departs on time and with the necessary safety measures in place. Vietnam Airlines is also encouraging passengers to arrive early at the airport to allow extra time for check-in and security procedures, given the higher-than-usual number of travelers.

Upgraded Facilities and Passenger Comfort

In addition to the upgrades to Terminal T3, Tan Son Nhat has also focused on improving the comfort and convenience of passengers during the Tet season. This includes increasing the availability of lounges, toilets, and seating areas for passengers. With the high volume of travelers expected, ensuring ample space for passengers to rest and wait comfortably is a key priority.

The airport is also placing a focus on improving passenger services, ensuring that travelers can easily access information about their flights, gate changes, and other important details. With a rise in passengers using digital devices, the airport Wi-Fi services have been improved to handle the increased load, ensuring seamless connectivity for travelers throughout the airport.

Vietnam’s Growing Aviation Hub

Tan Son Nhat International Airport’s preparations for the 2026 Tet holiday highlight the growing importance of Ho Chi Minh City as a major aviation hub in Southeast Asia. With an ever-increasing number of travelers both domestically and internationally, the airport continues to strengthen its infrastructure to handle the demands of a globalized economy. The airport’s ongoing upgrades are part of a broader effort to maintain its position as a top travel hub in the region and to accommodate future growth in air traffic.

In addition to domestic flights, Tan Son Nhat Airport is also seeing an increase in international connectivity. The growth in international routes has been spurred by the rise in tourism and business travel to Vietnam, which continues to be one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing economies.

The Tet Effect: Family Reunions and National Celebrations

The Tet holiday is not only a time for family reunions but also a significant event that influences travel patterns throughout Vietnam. The country sees one of the highest volumes of domestic travel during this period, as millions of people return to their hometowns to celebrate with their families. This national migration has a profound impact on the country’s transportation systems, making the Tet travel rush a critical moment for ensuring that the transportation network is ready to handle the high demand.

In the coming days, Ho Chi Minh City will experience a unique blend of excitement and chaos, with families coming together for festive celebrations and travelers moving through the airport at unprecedented levels. As Tan Son Nhat Airport prepares for the largest Tet rush yet, the city is ready for an influx of people, eager to spend time with loved ones and usher in the Lunar New Year in the heart of Vietnam.

Conclusion: A Busy Tet Season for Vietnam’s Busiest Airport

As Tan Son Nhat International Airport gears up for its busiest days of the year, travelers are encouraged to stay informed, arrive early, and prepare for the expected delays and higher foot traffic. With the airport’s efforts to expand its infrastructure and improve passenger experiences, Ho Chi Minh City is ready to manage the Tet holiday travel rush effectively.

Whether you’re heading home to celebrate or embarking on a journey to explore Vietnam, the upcoming Tet season promises to be a busy and festive time for travelers and families alike. As Vietnam’s aviation sector continues to grow, Tan Son Nhat is set to play a crucial role in connecting the world to Vietnam’s thriving culture and economy.

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