4 Vietnam Airports Halt Flights as Typhoon Bualoi Near

Impact of Typhoon Bualoi on Airports in Central Vietnam

As Typhoon Bualoi approaches, several airports in central Vietnam have been instructed to suspend flight arrivals during specific periods. This decision has been made by the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam (CAAV) to ensure the safety of passengers and staff amid the potential threat posed by the storm.

The affected airports include Dong Hoi, Tho Xuan, Phu Bai, and Da Nang. Each of these airports has been assigned specific time frames for the suspension of incoming flights. For example, Dong Hoi Airport in Quang Tri Province will stop accepting arrivals from 1 a.m. to 10 p.m. on September 28. Tho Xuan Airport in Thanh Hoa will be closed from 10 p.m. on September 28 until 7 a.m. on September 29. Phu Bai Airport in Hue is set to halt arrivals between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. on September 28, while Da Nang Airport will do the same from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. on the same day.

These airports are expected to be directly impacted by the typhoon, with Phu Bai and Da Nang likely to experience strong winds early in the storm's circulation. The National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting has warned that the storm is moving toward the area and could bring gale-force gusts. As such, airport authorities are closely monitoring the situation and preparing for any possible disruptions.

Precautionary Measures at Other Airports

In addition to the central airports, three northern airports—Noi Bai in Hanoi, Van Don in Quang Ninh, and Cat Bi in Hai Phong—are also advised to monitor the weather updates and take necessary preventive measures. Chu Lai Airport in southern Da Nang is another facility that must remain vigilant.

To safeguard operations, the CAAV has mandated continuous staffing and strict adherence to storm-response procedures across all civil aviation activities. This includes ensuring that all personnel are trained and prepared to handle emergency situations. The goal is to minimize risks and protect both human lives and property.

Current Status of Typhoon Bualoi

As of Saturday afternoon, Typhoon Bualoi was located approximately 170 km from the Hoang Sa (Paracel) Islands. It is expected to move into the waters off Quang Tri and Hue on Sunday afternoon before heading towards Nghe An and northern Quang Tri. The storm is forecasted to carry wind speeds of 103–133 kph, which could lead to significant damage in the affected regions.

The typhoon initially struck the central Philippines on Friday with wind speeds of 35–40 kph. This speed is roughly double the average forward speed of typical storms, which has contributed to its intensity and the devastation it has caused. At least 11 people have been reported dead as a result of the storm’s impact in the region.

Ongoing Monitoring and Preparedness

Authorities are continuously tracking the movement of Typhoon Bualoi and providing regular updates to relevant agencies and the public. The CAAV and other meteorological bodies are working together to ensure that all necessary precautions are taken to mitigate the effects of the storm.

Air travelers are encouraged to stay informed about the latest developments and adjust their plans accordingly. Airlines and airport operators are also advised to communicate any changes in schedules or operations to passengers in a timely manner.

As the typhoon continues to approach, the focus remains on maintaining safety and minimizing disruptions. The efforts of local authorities and aviation officials are critical in ensuring that the region is well-prepared for the challenges ahead.