Vietnam cancels domestic flights amid fuel shortage

Vietnam is facing a severe fuel shortage due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The country's national carrier, Vietnam Airlines, has announced the cancellation of at least 23 domestic flights per week from next month due to a lack of sufficient jet fuel.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam confirmed this information on Monday night. The Guardian reported this news.

The ongoing tension between Iran, the United States and Israel for almost three weeks has led to a rise in global oil prices and disruptions in supply systems. This has led to a shortage of 'Jet A-1' fuel, the authorities said.

The decision will take effect from April 1, the statement said. However, important domestic routes and international flights will remain open for the time being.

Meanwhile, airlines are planning to impose an additional 'fuel surcharge' on tickets on international routes to manage fuel costs, which could be effective from April.

The Vietnamese government has already asked Qatar, Kuwait, Algeria and Japan for energy assistance to deal with the crisis, and Hanoi has also signed an agreement with Russia on oil and gas production.