Jet fuel supply secured through April; evaluating potential increase in the maximum domestic air fare cap

Jet fuel supply is sufficient for Vietnamese airlines to operate through April and throughout the peak holiday period of April 30 and May 1, 2026, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam.

At a press conference organized by the Ministry of Construction on April 9, 2026, Do Hong Cam, Deputy Director of the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam, said that while earlier forecasts indicated Jet A-1 supply would only be secured until mid-April 2026, there are signs of improved ability to mobilize Jet A-1 fuel.

Supply outlook through the holiday peak

Updates from major aviation fuel suppliers, including Petrolimex Aviation and Skypec (together accounting for more than 80% of the supply market), indicate that fuel supply can be ensured for Vietnamese airlines through April and the entire peak holiday period of Apr 30 and May 1, 2026, in line with airlines’ registered operating plans.

Fuel suppliers are continuing to negotiate, seek, and diversify supply channels domestically and internationally, while also strengthening coordination and storage capacity to support flight operations.

Policy and pricing measures under consideration

Cam said that amid recent increases in fuel prices, Vietnamese airlines and fuel suppliers have proactively implemented self-help measures to cope with the situation.

On the policy side, after the Civil Aviation Authority proposed measures, the Ministry of Construction reported to the Prime Minister, recommending that relevant ministries issue urgent policy actions. These include reducing certain taxes to stabilize the market and support businesses and people.

The Ministry of Construction is also tasked with leading a study and evaluation—coordinating with the Civil Aviation Authority, airlines, and related units—on options to adjust the maximum price of domestic passenger air transport (the cap on airfares) and related instruments such as fuel surcharges.

Cam said the option to adjust the maximum airfare cap requires careful consideration, particularly regarding flexibility, the implementation timeline under procedures, and potential impacts on the market and the population. “Especially, adjusting the maximum requires a thorough process with all price law and civil aviation law procedures,” he said.

Another option being considered is allowing airlines to apply a fuel surcharge, which is also being assessed for suitability in the current context to meet timely demand amid rapid and unpredictable fuel price fluctuations.

The Civil Aviation Authority and related units are weighing and comparing price instruments, fees, and fuel surcharges, while consulting international experience and stakeholder views to select the optimal approach.

“In the near term, based on these assessments, the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam will prepare a report and recommendations for the competent authorities to consider, implement, and continue to provide practical and effective support, helping airlines and related enterprises to overcome difficulties and ensure the balance of interests of enterprises and consumers, minimizing negative impacts on achieving the goal of stability and socio-economic development,” Cam said.

Oil and aviation fuel price movements

On April 8, world oil prices fell sharply after reports that the U.S. and Iran reached a temporary cease-fire agreement. Brent was around $90–95 per barrel (down 13–16%), while WTI was around $94–95 per barrel.

In Asia, Jet A-1 fuel (FOB Singapore) price fell nearly 15% to about $195.34 per barrel. The premium between aviation fuel and a base feedstock narrowed to $28.82 per barrel, indicating temporary easing of supply pressure.

Middle East airspace and flight operations

Middle East airspace has gradually reopened as Iraq, Syria, Saudi Arabia, and Oman resumed operations, while Kuwait remained closed, Bahrain limited operations, and the UAE and Qatar tightened control.

Middle East airlines have largely maintained flight frequency into Vietnam, operating flexibly according to each stage.