Vietnam’s aviation sector is preparing for potential flight reductions from April as regional export restrictions on jet fuel threaten to disrupt supplies for the country’s airlines.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam has instructed carriers to review their operating plans and prepare contingency measures after China and Thailand suspended exports of refined fuels, including aviation fuel, amid a widening energy crisis linked to the conflict in the Middle East.

The restrictions have raised concerns about the availability of Jet A-1 fuel for aircraft operating in Vietnam.

Vietnam relies heavily on imported aviation fuel, with more than sixty percent of its supply traditionally sourced from China and Thailand.

Industry suppliers have warned that existing contracts and reserves may only be sufficient to meet airline demand through the end of March, increasing the risk of shortages if alternative deliveries cannot be secured in time.

Airlines including Vietnam Airlines and VietJet Air are now evaluating route schedules and operational adjustments in anticipation of tighter fuel supplies.

Authorities have also asked airport operators to prepare additional aircraft parking capacity should flight frequencies be reduced in the coming weeks.

The crisis stems from broader disruptions in global energy markets following escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route carrying a large share of the world’s oil supply, has been severely affected, pushing aviation fuel prices sharply higher.

Jet fuel prices in the Singapore market have surged dramatically in recent weeks, placing additional pressure on airline operating costs.

Governments across Asia have responded by prioritizing domestic energy security.

China has halted shipments of refined fuels including gasoline, diesel and aviation fuel to safeguard domestic supply, while Thailand has imposed a temporary suspension on several petroleum exports to prevent shortages at home.

Vietnamese authorities are exploring diplomatic discussions with supplier countries and seeking alternative fuel sources to maintain stable aviation operations.

Policy measures under consideration include tax reductions on aviation fuel and permission for airlines to apply fuel surcharges on domestic tickets if costs continue to climb.

The situation highlights the vulnerability of Southeast Asian aviation markets to global energy disruptions.

With Vietnam importing most of its aviation fuel and relying on regional supply chains, prolonged export restrictions could force airlines to scale back services until more stable fuel deliveries are secured.