Hai Au Aviation, a notable name in Vietnamese air travel, pioneered commercial seaplane services across the country. Established in 2011 as part of the Thien Minh Group, this airline offered a unique mode of transport and sightseeing, particularly for routes connecting Hanoi with Halong Bay. However, it is important for travelers to note that Hai Au Aviation officially ceased all operations on April 1, 2026, meaning its services are no longer available for booking or travel.
The Introduction of Commercial Seaplane Travel in Vietnam
Hai Au Aviation marked a significant development in Vietnam's tourism sector by becoming the first commercial seaplane operator. Founded in 2011, the company was a component of the Thien Minh Group, a prominent travel and hospitality organization within Southeast Asia. This initiative aimed to provide a fresh and distinctive way for visitors to experience some of Vietnam's most scenic locations.
The inaugural commercial flight from Noi Bai International Airport to Halong Bay took place in September 2014. Following this, Hai Au Aviation maintained a regular schedule of flights to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Halong Bay, alongside offering aerial tours of the bay itself. Beyond these scheduled services, the airline also facilitated private charter flights to various destinations throughout Vietnam, catering to those seeking an exclusive travel option.
Operational Scope and Destinations Served
Over its operational period, Hai Au Aviation provided several types of flight services, each designed to cater to different travel needs. The primary offering was scheduled flights connecting Hanoi's Noi Bai International Airport with Tuan Chau Island Marina, which serves as a common access point for Halong Bay cruises. This route significantly reduced travel time compared to ground transportation, offering a 45-minute flight instead of a typical four-hour bus journey.
In addition to point-to-point transfers, the company offered dedicated sightseeing flights over Halong Bay. These 25-minute aerial tours, also departing and returning to Tuan Chau Marina, allowed passengers to observe the bay's nearly 2,000 limestone islands from an altitude of 150 meters. This perspective offered a different appreciation of the landscape, distinct from experiences on a cruise ship. Hai Au Aviation also provided charter flights to over 20 locations across Vietnam, including Halong, Quang Binh, Hue, Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Da Lat, allowing for customized travel itineraries for individuals or small groups. Furthermore, the airline was the sole provider of aerial survey services in Vietnam using its specialized aircraft, assisting businesses and governmental bodies with geographical assessments and mapping.
The Cessna Grand Caravan 208B-EX Aircraft
Hai Au Aviation operated a fleet of three Cessna Grand Caravan 208B-EX amphibian aircraft. This particular model, introduced in 2014 and manufactured by the Textron Group in the USA, is recognized for its safety record as a single-engine aircraft. The pontoons, essential for water landings and takeoffs, were assembled by Wipaire Company in Minnesota.
These aircraft were specifically configured for sightseeing. Each plane featured 12 passenger seats, strategically positioned next to large windows to ensure unobstructed views of the exterior scenery. The design facilitated low-altitude flights, typically at 150 meters above sea level, enhancing the visual experience. A unique aspect of the Halong Bay flights was the sensation of water landings and takeoffs at Tuan Chau Island Marina. The aircraft were equipped with modern 'glass cockpit' avionics, weather radar, a storm tracker system, and Garmin GPS, ensuring adherence to safety standards. All flight paths and water operating zones received approval from the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam.
Aircraft Capacity and Maintenance
For flights between Hanoi and Halong, the seaplanes generally accommodated up to eight adult passengers with their luggage. On some occasions, particularly for scenic flights within Halong Bay, where passenger and luggage weights were below the maximum allowable payload, the aircraft could carry up to 12 passengers. The company's maintenance protocols strictly adhered to the standards set by the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam, as well as relevant international guidelines. Their facilities and equipment met qualification criteria, and they received technical support from aircraft manufacturers and approved maintenance organizations.
The Flight Experience and Crew Standards
A flight with Hai Au Aviation offered a distinct experience, characterized by its low-altitude trajectory and the direct interaction with the flight crew. The aircraft's design, with large windows and a flight altitude of 150 meters, allowed passengers to observe the landscapes in detail. The thrill of taking off from and landing on water, especially at Tuan Chau Marina in Halong Bay, was a memorable part of the journey.
Each flight was staffed by a captain and a co-pilot; due to the aircraft's size, there was no dedicated cabin crew. The pilots were not only responsible for operating the aircraft but also served as onboard guides, providing commentary and insights during the flight. Hai Au Aviation ensured its flight crew was fully certified and qualified, capable of operating under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR). Captains typically possessed a minimum of 2,000 successful flight hours, with experience gained in diverse regions such as Canada, Africa, Australia, and Vietnam. First officers were also comprehensively trained and qualified, having accumulated at least 500 flight hours on the aircraft type. For travelers departing from Noi Bai International Airport, the seaplane offered a swift connection to coastal destinations.
The End of an Era: Hai Au Aviation's Cessation
As of April 1, 2026, Hai Au Aviation officially ceased all seaplane services. This means that all scheduled flights, sightseeing tours, charter operations, and aerial survey services are no longer available. While the company played a pioneering role in introducing commercial seaplane travel to Vietnam and offered a unique perspective on destinations like Halong Bay, its operations have concluded. Travelers planning visits to Hanoi and Halong Bay should be aware that this particular aerial transport option is no longer offered.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Hai Au Aviation cease its operations?
Hai Au Aviation officially ceased all seaplane services as of April 1, 2026. Their flights are no longer available.
What types of services did Hai Au Aviation offer?
Hai Au Aviation offered scheduled flights between Hanoi and Halong Bay, scenic sightseeing flights over Halong Bay, and private charter flights to various destinations across Vietnam. They also provided specialized aerial survey services.
What aircraft did Hai Au Aviation use?
The airline operated three Cessna Grand Caravan 208B-EX amphibian aircraft. These planes were known for their safety features and were specifically designed for sightseeing, featuring large windows and the capability for water landings and takeoffs.
How long was the flight from Hanoi to Halong Bay?
The scheduled flight from Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi to Tuan Chau Island Marina in Halong Bay typically took 45 minutes, offering a significantly faster alternative to road travel.
What made the Hai Au Aviation experience unique?
The unique aspects included low-altitude flying at 150 meters for enhanced views, the experience of water landings and takeoffs, and the direct interaction with pilots who also served as onboard tour guides.