Vietnam's airline industry is poised for fleet expansion and new routes. According to a recent approved civil aviation development strategy, the country is expected to increase its civil aircraft fleet up to 250 by 2030.

The plan calls for airlines to substantially increase their air transport capacities with traditional markets in Southeast Asia, Northeastern Asia and China, radio The Voice of Vietnam (VOV) reported on March 14.

They are also urged to bolster air transport links to the South Asian region, East Europe and the former Soviet Union.

The strategy outlines plans to expeditiously open air routes and increase passenger and cargo transport capacities on routes to Europe, North America, Latin America and Africa.

It also places great emphasis on the need to encourage investment in developing regional transit aviation ports as well as enticing foreign airlines to open air routes to these ports.

The total number of civil aircraft is expected to surmount to 190-210 by 2020 and further jump to 230-250 by 2030.

To fulfill the set targets, the aviation sector will continue to vigorously invest and upgrade infrastructure such as terminals and parking lots to improve the efficiency and enlarge aviation ports.

Priorities will be given to expanding and upgrading international airports such as Tan Son Nhat, Noi Bai, Cat Bi, Phu Bai, Da Nang and Cam Ranh and completion of the first phase of Long Thanh international airport.

Moreover, there are plans to turn Chu Lai International airport into a cargo transit centre for Southeast Asia and China’s southern region.-VNA