Severe storms force dozens of flights to circle central Vietnam airports

Flights inbound to Da Nang International Airport and Hue Airport were forced to circle in holding patterns as thunderstorms swept across central Vietnam on Monday. The severe weather conditions reduced visibility to approximately 350 metres, making safe landing operations impossible at both facilities.

The disruption affected 17 flights scheduled to arrive at the two airports during the period of worst weather. Flight operations were suspended until visibility conditions improved sufficiently to allow safe approaches and landings.

The incident highlights the vulnerability of central Vietnam's major transport hubs to seasonal monsoon weather systems. Da Nang and Hue airports serve as critical gateways for both domestic and international air traffic to the central region, which encompasses several key tourist destinations and economic centres.

Airport authorities did not immediately provide details on alternative arrangements for the diverted flights or estimated delays. The storms were expected to clear during the afternoon, allowing normal flight operations to resume.