The Ministry of Transport (MOT) on February 3 suggested that the Ministry of Finance (MOF) change domestic airfare schemes upwards for economy class tickets on domestic flights.

The MOT recommended that passengers be charged VND863,000 for domestic flights of 300-500km; VND1.18 million for flights of 500-850km; and VND1.818 million for flights of more than 850km.

As such, if the price increases are ok’d by the MOF, a round-trip economy-class ticket from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi would cost VND2 million ($105) including value-added tax and airport fees. Currently, the round-trip fare is VND1.8 million.

The new prices are expected to take effect March 1, 2010 if approved.

On the same day, the Quang Binh Province People’s Committee said Vietnam Airlines will add two more flights from HCMC to Dong Hoi during the Tet (lunar New Year) holidays. On February 10 and 17, Vietnam Airlines will add one more flight each day.