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Vietnam Now Requires Full Refunds for 4-Hour Flight Delays
Starting July 1, 2026, passengers flying on Vietnamese airlines will be entitled to a full ticket refund if their flight is delayed by four hours or more due to airline fault — a significant upgrade in passenger protection under Vietnam’s new aviation regulations.
What the New Law Says
On June 15, 2026, the Vietnamese government issued Decree 208/2026/NĐ-CP on air transport, which takes effect July 1, 2026. Under Article 36 of this decree, airlines are now legally required to refund the full ticket price or the unused portion of a ticket, when a flight is delayed by four or more hours, provided the delay is caused by the carrier itself.
This marks a meaningful shift from the previous threshold, which only triggered a mandatory refund obligation after a five-hour delay.
Tiered Passenger Rights Under the New Decree
The new regulations establish a tiered system of obligations depending on how long a flight is delayed:
Delays of 3 hours or more:
Airlines must provide passengers with meals or meal vouchers of equivalent value, along with other care and support measures as stipulated by law.
Delays of 4 hours or more (due to airline fault):
In addition to the above, airlines must:
- Offer passengers a full refund or refund the unused portion of their ticket if the passenger does not agree to the alternative itinerary proposed by the carrier.
- Pay a one-time, non-refundable advance compensation to passengers who held confirmed seats and valid tickets on the delayed flight. This compensation applies once per flight, including delays that occur onboard the aircraft (as defined under Article 38 of the Decree).
Key Condition: Airline Fault Only
It is important to note that the refund and advance compensation obligations apply only when the delay is caused by the airline. Delays due to weather, air traffic control restrictions, force majeure events, or other circumstances beyond the airline’s control are not covered under these specific provisions.
Passengers should request a written explanation from the airline regarding the reason for any significant delay to determine whether they are entitled to compensation.
What This Means for Travelers Visiting Vietnam
For international and domestic travelers flying in or around Vietnam, this new rule offers stronger protection when plans go wrong. Whether you’re connecting through Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport or departing from Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat, knowing your rights can save you both time and money.
If your flight is delayed by four or more hours and the airline is at fault:
- You are entitled to refuse the replacement itinerary and request a full refund.
- You are entitled to advance compensation on top of the refund.
- You should receive meals or vouchers starting from the third hour of delay.
An Vui Travel recommends that passengers keep all booking documentation and communicate with airline staff in writing when delays occur to ensure a clear record for any compensation claims.
Travel Tips from An Vui Travel
- Always purchase travel insurance that covers flight delays and cancellations, particularly for multi-leg itineraries.
- Check directly with your airline about their specific compensation procedures under the new decree.
- If denied rightful compensation, you may file a complaint with the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV).
Sources:
https://baomoi.com/tu-1-7-hanh-khach-duoc-hoan-tien-ve-neu-chuyen-bay-cham-tu-4-gio-tro-len-c55415239.epi
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