Ho Chi Minh City Joins Hanoi and Other Destinations in Battling Severe Hub Congestion, Sparkling a Travel Crisis: Is This the Start of a Lasting Tourist Nightmare?

Across major airports, the magnanimous travel crisis has been observed as aviation rebounds. In busy Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, travellers have been confronted with long queues, crowded terminals and delayed flights. Official data indicate that passenger volumes have surpassed pre‑pandemic levels, stretching infrastructure and staffing. Similar stories appear in the United States and the United Kingdom, where temporary flight reductions and sudden closures have disrupted journeys. This report examines official records to understand how hub congestion has emerged, how governments respond and whether the situation represents a lasting nightmare for visitors or a temporary symptom of recovery.

Tan Son Nhat’s record‑breaking congestion

Vietnam’s southern gateway “Tan Son Nhat International Airport”,”Ho Chi Minh City airport” experienced its busiest day on 22 February 2026. According to the Government’s news portal, the airport handled 1,069 flights carrying 177,859 passengers. More than 104,700 of those passengers arrived on 540 inbound flights. The sheer volume overwhelmed check‑in counters, security checkpoints and baggage belts. Airside operations struggled to manage the constant stream of aircraft movements, causing delays on taxiways. The magnanimous travel crisis at Tan Son Nhat thus manifested as queues extending outside the terminal and travellers facing extended waiting times.

Mitigation measures at Tan Son Nhat

To tackle congestion, a comprehensive holiday plan was implemented. Peak daily loads of about 145,000 passengers and roughly 1,025 flights were projected during the 2026 Lunar New Year. Terminal T3 introduced flexible procedures, digital systems and a standardized taxi network. Collaborative Decision Making saved minutes per movement and real‑time monitoring, cashless payments and common‑use check‑in systems improved efficiency. Volunteers guided travellers through check‑in and security, and ground transport providers increased capacity. These actions demonstrate how technology and manpower were deployed against the magnanimous travel crisis.

Noi Bai’s pre‑Tet and post‑Tet peaks

At“Noi Bai International Airport”,”Hanoi airport” , forecasts for the 2026 Lunar New Year predicted unprecedented demand. The airport expected to serve more than 725,000 passengers and 4,467 flights during the week before Tet. The busiest day, 14 February 2026, was projected to handle over 116,000 passengers and 674 flights. After the holiday the numbers were set to rise further, with 737,272 passengers and 4,530 flights, and a post‑Tet peak of 117,298 passengers. Such volumes stretched the airport’s runways, aprons, and terminals, echoing the severe travel crisis in Ho Chi Minh City.

Upgrading Noi Bai’s infrastructure and processes

To relieve congestion, Noi Bai expanded Terminal T2, enabling over 50,000 international passengers per day. Terminal T1’s 98 check‑in counters were optimised and standby counters could be opened when queues formed. The VNeID identification system, self‑service kiosks, bag‑drop machines and automatic security gates were promoted for domestic travel. The Collaborative Decision Making model improved infrastructure use, while AI‑powered announcements and smart way‑finding guided passengers. Such touchless technologies show how modernisation combats the magnanimous travel crisis.

New Year surges and terminal allocation

During the early 2026 New Year holiday, Noi Bai expected passenger volumes to rise above normal levels. About 115,000 travellers and 650 flights were forecast for 4 January. At Tan Son Nhat, roughly 131,000 passengers were expected daily, with peak days approaching 135,000. To manage flows, terminal assignments were revised: Terminal T3 handled most domestic flights while Vietjet continued using Terminal. Biometric identification and clearer signage were introduced. These measures were designed to avert a recurrence of the magnanimous travel crisis.

Da Nang’s automated model

Central Vietnam’s “Da Nang International Airport”,”Da Nang airport” offers a different solution. In March 2025 it became the first airport in Vietnam to fully automate processes. The Autogate system uses biometric recognition for immigration, reducing workloads and increasing security. This smart terminal model minimises waiting times. In 2024, Da Nang handled around 13.4 million passengers, including 6.2 million international and 7.2 million domestic travellers. The airport’s inclusion among the world’s top 100 and top 10 most improved airports demonstrates that automation can ease the magnanimous travel crisis while improving service quality.

Long Thanh construction for relief

The Government’s strategy to relieve Tan Son Nhat involves building,”Long Thanh International Airport”, Vietnam’s future airport, near Ho Chi Minh City. Phase 1 is to open by 19 December 2025, and all component projects and transport links must be completed simultaneously. The new hub will occupy more than 5,000 hectares with an estimated investment of US$4.6 billion for Phase 1 and US$18.7 billion overall. Situated about 40 kilometres east of the city, it is expected to become the country’s premier gateway. Plans for a third runway and a metro connection are under study. This expansion is intended to resolve the long-term travel crisis.

Connectivity rankings and capacity aspirations

Vietnamese hubs aim for global connectivity. OAG ranked Tan Son Nhat 45th among the world’s 50 most connected airports in 2025, with 8,348 valid itineraries linking 94 destinations. The airport returned to the top 50 after a two‑year absence and is projected to handle 50 million passengers annually once Terminal T3 is fully operational. High connectivity brings economic benefits but can magnify the magnanimous travel crisis if infrastructure lags.

Causes of flight delays in Vietnam

Capacity constraints translate into delays. CAAV statistics show that Vietnamese carriers operated 275,246 flights in 2025, up by 22,566 flights year on year. On‑time performance fell to 65.8 percent. The main causes of delays were late aircraft arrivals, airline operational issues, weather and airport infrastructure constraints. Flight cancellations also rose: 1,740 flights were cancelled in 2025, accounting for 0.6 percent of operations. These figures highlight how operational inefficiencies and limited capacity contribute to the magnanimous travel crisis experienced by passengers.

Aviation growth and route demand

Despite punctuality challenges, Vietnam’s aviation market is growing. It handled 83.5 million passengers and 1.5 million tonnes of cargo in 2025 and is projected to handle 95 million passengers and 1.6 million tonnes in 2026. The Hanoi–Ho Chi Minh City route ranked fourth among the world’s busiest, with around 11 million seats served by six airlines and average ticket prices near US$67. Robust demand underscores the need to mitigate the magnanimous travel crisis.

FAA’s temporary flight reductions

Congestion is not unique to Vietnam. On 6 November 2025 the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration ordered a temporary 10 percent reduction in flights at 40 busy airports[41] because controllers were working without pay during a government shutdown. The reductions were phased from 4 percent on 7 November to 10 percent by 14 November and were accompanied by restrictions on certain visual flight rule approaches and space launches. Airlines were required to refund cancelled flights. These measures illustrate a proactive effort to avert a magnanimous travel crisis.

Effects of U.S. reductions on travellers

The U.S. reductions were aimed at maintaining safety, ensuring that staffing levels could handle operations. Passengers were refunded but had to rebook. The phased approach prevented uncontrolled congestion, demonstrating that short‑term inconvenience can avert a broader magnanimous travel crisis. The experience highlights the importance of clear communication and passenger rights and shows that capacity management must balance safety and efficiency.

Heathrow’s fire‑induced closure

A similar crisis occurred on 21 March 2025 when London’s Heathrow Airport closed after a fire at an electrical substation cut power. The UK Civil Aviation Authority advised passengers to avoid the airport and contact their airlines. Flights were cancelled or diverted. Airlines were reminded to offer refunds and care. The event shows how sudden infrastructure failures can trigger a magnanimous travel crisis and underscores the need for emergency planning and passenger protection.

Lessons from global cases

Comparing Vietnam’s experience with international examples reveals key lessons. Proactive planning—such as Tan Son Nhat’s volunteer programme and the FAA’s pre‑emptive reductions—can prevent total gridlock. Digital transformation, including Noi Bai’s self‑service systems and Da Nang’s Autogate, reduces processing times. Infrastructure expansion, exemplified by Long Thanh and Terminal T2, addresses capacity constraints. Clear communication and enforcement of passenger rights, highlighted by the UK CAA during the Heathrow incident, maintain trust. These examples suggest that the magnanimous travel crisis can be managed through planning, innovation and regulation.

Tourism impacts of congestion

For travellers, congestion translates into stress. During Tet peaks, inbound flights exceeded expectations and arrival halls were crowded. Visitors encountered lengthy queues at immigration, struggled to find ground transport and faced the possibility of missed connections. International tourists unfamiliar with local procedures were particularly vulnerable. Government advice to arrive early, check in online and use public transport reflects the behavioural changes required in a magnanimous travel crisis. Beyond inconvenience, repeated congestion can tarnish a destination’s reputation. Addressing hub congestion therefore protects both passenger satisfaction and the broader tourism industry.

Over time tourism could be harmed if the system is seen as unreliable; sustained investment is required to restore confidence.

Government solutions and technology innovations

Authorities are deploying multiple solutions. Digital identification platforms (VNeID), self‑service kiosks, automatic baggage drop and intelligent security screening have been introduced. The Airport Collaborative Decision Making model enhances coordination. Volunteer programmes provide human assistance. Long Thanh’s construction aims to redistribute traffic. In the United States, temporary flight reductions safeguard safety, while in the United Kingdom, regulators enforce passenger rights during disruptions. These initiatives show that the magnanimous travel crisis is being addressed through technology, infrastructure and policy.

Category	Incident	Measures / context
Tan Son Nhat	Record day (22 Feb 2026): 1,069 flights and 177,859 passengers	Terminal T3, digital systems and volunteers were deployed
Noi Bai	Tet surge forecast: over 725,000 passengers; post‑Tet peak 117,298	T2 expansion and touchless technologies including VNeID and self‑service kiosks
Da Nang	Autogate enabled full automation and 13.4 million passengers	Biometric recognition reduced waiting and earned a top 100 ranking
International	U.S. FAA ordered temporary flight reductions; Heathrow closed after a substation fire	Reductions protected safety and refunds were mandated; UK CAA guided passengers and enforced rights

Outlook and conclusion

The magnanimous travel crisis is serious but not insurmountable. Passenger numbers are expected to rise, but expansions at Tan Son Nhat and Noi Bai and the construction of Long Thanh will add capacity. Automation at Da Nang offers a model. The FAA’s reductions and the UK CAA’s emphasis on passenger rights show that regulators can protect travellers. With investment and planning, congestion can be managed. The crisis reflects recovery rather than a permanent nightmare. Travellers should stay informed and trust that authorities are working to keep journeys safe.

The post Ho Chi Minh City Joins Hanoi and Other Destinations in Battling Severe Hub Congestion, Sparkling a Travel Crisis: Is This the Start of a Lasting Tourist Nightmare? appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

The Global Marathon Effect with Sports tourism : Transforming Ho Chi Minh City into a Premier Travel Destination in Vietnam

In the contemporary landscape of urban development, the intersection of physical activity and travel has emerged as a significant catalyst for regional prosperity. Sports tourism has been identified as a vital pillar for the expansion of Ho Chi Minh City, particularly as the metropolitan area seeks to diversify its offerings beyond traditional sightseeing. By hosting high-profile international athletic events, the city is positioned to capture a growing demographic of health-conscious travelers. This strategic focus is designed to stimulate economic growth through increased occupancy in the hospitality sector and heightened activity within the retail and service industries. As urban development continues to modernize the city’s infrastructure, the integration of marathon competitions into the annual calendar is viewed as a primary driver for attracting both domestic and foreign visitors.

The Phenomenon of Marathons and Urban Vitality

The city was recently transformed into a vibrant stage for the 7th Ho Chi Minh City International Marathon, an event that drew nearly 15,000 participants. This massive gathering was not merely a display of physical endurance but a significant logistical achievement that highlighted the city’s capacity for large-scale management. It is observed that these races serve as more than just competitions; they are instruments for showcasing the architectural landmarks and cultural vibrancy of the southern metropolis.

Athletes from all corners of the globe were welcomed, with representative runners arriving from dozens of different countries. By routing the course through various districts and past iconic heritage sites, the city’s unique identity was projected to a global audience. The influx of participants and their accompanying supporters resulted in a measurable surge in demand for local accommodations. Hotels in the central districts were reported to have reached high occupancy levels, while local eateries and transport services experienced a concurrent rise in patronage.

Expanding the Scope of Sports-Related Travel

Beyond the realm of long-distance running, a diverse array of athletic disciplines is being utilized to enhance the appeal of the region. International tournaments involving golf, football, and martial arts are being integrated into the tourism portfolio of the city. These events are curated to ensure that the visitor experience is holistic, combining the excitement of the competition with the leisure of a vacation.

It is noted by industry experts that sports tourists typically possess a higher spending capacity compared to average leisure travelers. The extended duration of their stay, often required for acclimatization and post-event recovery, ensures a steady stream of revenue for local businesses. Furthermore, the ripple effect of such spending is felt across various sectors, from equipment suppliers to wellness centers and massage parlors. The strategic alignment of the tourism department with sports federations is seen as a necessary step to ensure the sustainability of this trend.

Infrastructure Development and Global Competitiveness

To maintain the momentum generated by these events, significant investments are being directed toward the improvement of sports facilities and public infrastructure. The renovation of stadiums, the creation of dedicated cycling lanes, and the enhancement of pedestrian walkways are all prioritized within the city’s master plan. These improvements are intended to make the environment more conducive to hosting world-class championships.

The city is being marketed as a premier destination within Southeast Asia, competing with other regional hubs that have long established their reputations in the sports sector. By offering a blend of modern amenities and traditional charm, Ho Chi Minh City is carving out a niche that appeals to professional athletes and amateur enthusiasts alike. The passive observation of this growth suggests that the city is successfully transitioning from a transit point into a primary destination for specialized travel.

Cultural Integration and the Participant Experience

A key element in the success of these athletic festivals is the seamless integration of local culture into the event programming. Participants are not only provided with a race bib but are also offered glimpses into the culinary and artistic heritage of the region. Food festivals, traditional music performances, and craft exhibitions are frequently organized in conjunction with the main sporting activities.

This multifaceted approach ensures that the memories carried away by visitors are rich and varied. When runners traverse the streets, they are greeted by the sights and sounds of a city that is simultaneously ancient and cutting-edge. The warmth of the local population and the efficiency of the event staff contribute to a positive overall impression, which is essential for fostering repeat visits. It is believed that the word-of-mouth promotion generated by satisfied participants is more effective than any traditional advertising campaign.

Future Perspectives on Sustainable Growth

As the city looks toward the future, the focus remains on the sustainability of the sports tourism model. Efforts are being made to ensure that the environmental impact of large-scale events is minimized through waste management initiatives and the promotion of green transport options. The long-term goal is to establish a calendar that provides a consistent flow of events throughout the year, rather than relying on a few peak periods.

Collaboration between the public and private sectors is being intensified to create innovative packages that link race registration with hotel bookings and guided tours. By streamlining the experience for the traveler, the city is making it easier for international visitors to choose Vietnam as their next competitive venue. The evolution of Ho Chi Minh City into a global sports hub is a testament to the vision and resilience of its leadership and its people.

The post The Global Marathon Effect with Sports tourism : Transforming Ho Chi Minh City into a Premier Travel Destination in Vietnam appeared first on Travel And Tour World.