A Vietnam Airlines Boeing 787-9 narrowly avoided disaster after losing speed twice during takeoff from Munich. With only 91 metres of runway remaining, the pilots continued the departure before returning safely after nearly two hours in the air. The aircraft landed with four burst tyres and tail-strike damage, while all passengers and crew escaped unharmed.


Vietnam airlines flight takes off with just 91 metres of runway left after mid-air scare

A major search and rescue operation is underway after a Vietnamese cargo ship carrying 62 crew members sank in the disputed South China Sea during severe weather. Rescuers have saved 39 people, while 23 remain missing. Chinese rescue ships, helicopters, and nearby fishing vessels are assisting Vietnamese authorities in the search near Fiery Cross Reef in the Spratly Islands. The incident occurred in one of the world's most disputed maritime regions, where overlapping territorial claims by China, Vietnam, and the Philippines continue to fuel tensions.

23 Missing After Vietnamese Cargo Ship Sinks in South China Sea | Massive Rescue Ops Underway

At least 15 Indian tourists have died after a tourist boat carrying holidaymakers capsized near Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam. The vessel was carrying 32 Indian tourists and four crew members when it overturned. Search and rescue operations are ongoing as Vietnamese authorities investigate the cause of the accident. The Indian Embassy in Hanoi has confirmed the incident, established emergency helplines, and is coordinating closely with local authorities to assist affected families.


Vietnam Boat Tragedy Kills 15 Indians; Boat Captain Under Probe

For decades, Thailand remained the default international holiday destination for Indian travellers. It offered quick flights and budget-friendly beaches. However, recent changes to immigration policies and severe overcrowding have altered this trend. Driven by better budgets and digital convenience, a massive wave of tourists is pivoting to another Southeast Asian nation. Here is exactly why Indian travellers are rapidly skipping Thailand in favour of Vietnam.<h2>The return of the Thai visa fee</h2>In a recent policy reversal, Thailand rolled back its popular 60-day visa-free scheme for Indian citizens. The government moved Indian passport holders back to a paid Visa-on-Arrival category. Travellers must now pay an entry fee of 2,000 Thai Baht, which is roughly Rs 5,500. For a family of four, this adds a significant upfront cost before the holiday even begins, prompting tourists to look for alternative destinations.<h2>A highly streamlined e-visa process</h2>Instead of dealing with the paperwork and long airport queues for a Visa-on-Arrival in Bangkok, travellers are choosing Vietnam's efficient immigration system. Vietnam offers a fully digital e-visa for Indian citizens. The online application is simple, and approvals are typically granted within three to five business days. This seamless process allows tourists to clear immigration immediately upon landing in cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.<h2>Superior value for the Indian Rupee</h2>While direct flights to Thailand may occasionally be cheaper due to high volume, Vietnam offers significantly lower on-ground expenses. The cost of daily transport, local food, and accommodation in Vietnam stretches the Indian Rupee much further. Travellers can book premium coastal resorts in Da Nang or take cruise tours in Ha Long Bay for a fraction of the cost required for similar experiences in Phuket.<h2>Escaping the tourist saturation</h2>Thailand is currently battling severe overtourism. Many popular beaches and city centres have crossed a saturation point, leading to inflated pricing and crowded sightseeing spots. In contrast, Vietnam provides a relatively fresh experience. According to the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, Indian arrivals grew by 60.5 per cent year-on-year recently, surpassing 500,000 visitors. The country offers vast, uncrowded landscapes, from the limestone cliffs of the north to the quiet lantern-lit streets of Hoi An.&nbsp;The shift away from Thailand is a purely practical decision. Indian travellers are highly informed and increasingly value their spending power. By offering a straightforward digital visa, lower daily costs, and uncrowded historical sites, Vietnam has successfully captured the Southeast Asian travel market.

Thailand recently rolled back its visa-free entry for Indian citizens, reinstating a Rs 5,500 fee. In response, tourists are pivoting to Vietnam. With a fast e-visa process, lower daily expenses, and uncrowded locations, Vietnam is rapidly becoming the new favourite.

For decades, Thailand remained the default international holiday destination for Indian travellers. It offered quick flights and budget-friendly beaches. However, recent changes to immigration policies and severe overcrowding have altered this trend. Driven by better budgets and digital convenience, a massive wave of tourists is pivoting to another Southeast Asian nation. Here is exactly why Indian travellers are rapidly skipping Thailand in favour of Vietnam. The return of the Thai visa fee In a recent policy reversal, Thailand rolled back its popular 60-day visa-free scheme for Indian citizens. The government moved Indian passport holders back to a paid Visa-on-Arrival category. Travellers must now pay an entry fee of 2,000 Thai Baht, which is roughly Rs 5,500. For a family of four, this adds a significant upfront cost before the holiday even begins, prompting tourists to look for alternative destinations. A highly streamlined e-visa process Instead of dealing with the paperwork and long airport queues for a Visa-on-Arrival in Bangkok, travellers are choosing Vietnam's efficient immigration system. Vietnam offers a fully digital e-visa for Indian citizens. The online application is simple, and approvals are typically granted within three to five business days. This seamless process allows tourists to clear immigration immediately upon landing in cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. Superior value for the Indian Rupee While direct flights to Thailand may occasionally be cheaper due to high volume, Vietnam offers significantly lower on-ground expenses. The cost of daily transport, local food, and accommodation in Vietnam stretches the Indian Rupee much further. Travellers can book premium coastal resorts in Da Nang or take cruise tours in Ha Long Bay for a fraction of the cost required for similar experiences in Phuket. Escaping the tourist saturation Thailand is currently battling severe overtourism. Many popular beaches and city centres have crossed a saturation point, leading to inflated pricing and crowded sightseeing spots. In contrast, Vietnam provides a relatively fresh experience. According to the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, Indian arrivals grew by 60.5 per cent year-on-year recently, surpassing 500,000 visitors. The country offers vast, uncrowded landscapes, from the limestone cliffs of the north to the quiet lantern-lit streets of Hoi An. The shift away from Thailand is a purely practical decision. Indian travellers are highly informed and increasingly value their spending power. By offering a straightforward digital visa, lower daily costs, and uncrowded historical sites, Vietnam has successfully captured the Southeast Asian travel market.

Thailand recently rolled back its visa-free entry for Indian citizens, reinstating a Rs 5,500 fee. In response, tourists are pivoting to Vietnam. With a fast e-visa process, lower daily expenses, and uncrowded locations, Vietnam is rapidly becoming the new favourite.

Why are Indian travellers skipping Thailand for this country?

Vietnam is rapidly expanding its presence in the disputed Spratly Islands while moving closer to a major BrahMos missile deal with India. As tensions with China grow in the South China Sea, Hanoi is strengthening both its military infrastructure and defence partnerships. This explainer breaks down Vietnam’s island-building campaign, China’s response, the environmental impact in the Spratlys, and why India’s supersonic BrahMos missile is becoming one of the world’s most sought-after weapons systems. From the Philippines and Indonesia to the Middle East and Latin America global demand for Brahmos is rising fast.


Vietnam’s South China Sea Build-Up and the Global Rise of BrahMos

India has confirmed talks with Vietnam on the sale of BrahMos missile system. This came at the backdrop of the high profile meeting between Vietnman General Secretary, President To Lam's with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during the former's state visit to India.

The Brahmos missles are being jointly developed by India and Russia. India has earlier sold the supersonic cruise missiles to Philippines and has also signed a contract with Indonesia in March 2026.

India-Vietnam Ties: India Confirms Talks With Vietnam on BrahMos Missile System

To Lam’s visit to India marks a decade of strong strategic ties between the two nations. Welcomed with ceremonial honours, he held key bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, focusing on defence, trade, and regional cooperation. With a high-level delegation in tow, the visit signals a deeper push to strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership amid evolving global dynamics.


India-Vietnam Ties: To Lam India Visit Marks 10 Years of Strategic Ties, New Delhi-Hanoi Boost Ties

To Lam has begun his five-year term as Vietnam’s president after lawmakers unanimously backed his bid, marking a major political development in the country’s leadership. His appointment consolidates authority at the top level and signals continuity in Vietnam’s governance and policy direction in the coming years.


Vietnam: Lawmakers Unanimously Back to Lam's Presidency Bid | To Lam Begins 5-Yr Term As President  

Vietnam’s gig economy is feeling the heat of surging fuel prices, as the global oil crisis driven by West Asia tensions hits daily earnings. With costs rising sharply, many delivery riders say their incomes are shrinking, forcing them to work longer hours just to make ends meet.


 Vietnam Riders Hit by Fuel Price Surge

The European Union has warned that growing involvement of Chinese firms in Vietnam’s 5G network could deter foreign investment.

EU officials raised concerns after Huawei and ZTE secured contracts alongside European firms, signalling a shift in Vietnam’s telecom strategy.

EU Commissioner Jozef Síkela cautioned that 5G is a “new battlefield,” warning that dependence on non-trusted vendors in strategic sectors could raise data security concerns.

He added that if investors doubt the security of their data, they may avoid investing, potentially impacting Vietnam’s growth, which relies heavily on foreign capital.

EU Warns China’s Role In Vietnam 5G May Hit Foreign Investment | WION

Thai authorities arrested a 36-year-old Vietnamese man at Bangkok airport for smuggling six pieces of rhino horn and 12 kilograms of unidentified meat. The seizure highlights ongoing wildlife trafficking challenges in Southeast Asia and strict enforcement at international ports.


Thailand Arrests Vietnamese Man for Smuggling Rhino Horn, 12kg Meat Seized at Bangkok Airport

Vietnam’s top leader To Lam has consolidated his grip on power after being re-elected as General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam. The re-election cements To Lam’s dominance at the apex of Vietnam’s political system, where the party chief holds ultimate authority over the state, military and government.


To Lam Consolidates Power As He Is Re-Elected Communist Party Of Vietnam General Secretary | WION

Vietnam’s top leader, To Lam, has strengthened his hold on power following his re-election as General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam. The victory reinforces To Lam’s dominance at the pinnacle of Vietnam’s political system, where the party chief wields ultimate authority over the state, the military, and the government.

Vietnam's To Lam Secures Power with Re-Election as Party General Secretary

India is close to finalising a $450 million export deal for its BrahMos supersonic cruise missile with Vietnam and Indonesia. The agreement would mark a major expansion of India’s defence exports and strengthen strategic ties in the Indo-Pacific region. Analysts say the deal highlights growing global demand for Indian-made weapons systems and New Delhi’s push to emerge as a key defence supplier.


India Nears $450 Million BrahMos Missile Deal With Vietnam and Indonesia

India nears $450 million Brahmos missile export deals with Vietnam and Indonesia

Vietnam is grappling with deadly rains that have led to significant flooding, landslides, and loss of life in multiple provinces. The intense monsoon downpours have disrupted daily life, damaged infrastructure, and displaced thousands.


Deadly Rains Batter Vietnam, Causing Severe Damage 

Severe floods in Vietnam have killed at least 41 people, with thousands evacuated and major transport routes crippled. Landslides have blocked key highways, including Mimosa Pass near Da Lat, and rail services between north and south Vietnam were suspended. Emergency response centers reported surging calls as heavy rains continued. Here’s the latest on the unfolding disaster.

Deadly Vietnam Floods: At Least 41 Killed as Roads Collapse & Rail Services Halted

Vietnam: At least seven people have died after multiple landslides struck Vietnam’s central highlands, triggered by heavy rain. Rescue teams continue to search for one person still missing. 

Vietnam: Rains Cause Devastating Landslides, Kill Several in Vietnam

Nearly a million people have evacuated their homes in the Philippines as the country braced for another powerful storm, days after a typhoon killed more than 200 people.
The storm, named Fung-wong, started battering northeastern Philippines on Sunday before its expected landfall, knocking down power and prompting warnings from the weather bureau of a “high risk of life-threatening conditions” in parts of the country.

Super Typhoon Fung-Wong Kills 2 as Philippines Still Reels From Kalmaegi

Kalmaegi, Asia's most powerful tropical storm this year, forced six of Vietnam's airports to close ahead of its arrival.


Deadly Typhoon Kalmaegi Strikes Southeast Asia, Nearly 200 Dead In Philippines

At least five people were killed in Vietnam after Typhoon Kalmaegi made landfall on Thursday, with fierce winds and torrential rains, causing widespread damage across the country’s central provinces, just days after the storm, classified as a tropical depression, claimed at least 188 lives in the Philippines, which is now bracing for the next storm. Local officials reported three deaths in Dak Lak and two in Gia Lai provinces, while three others remained missing in Quang Ngai, said Vietnamese state media. Kalmaegi, one of the strongest typhoons on record to hit Vietnam, brought torrential rains and destructive winds after leaving a trail of death and devastation in the central Philippines, reducing entire neighbourhoods to rubble and displacing tens of thousands of people.&nbsp;At least five people were killed and seven injured, state media Vietnam News reported, citing local authorities.&nbsp;Heavy rains unleashed by Kalmaegi also flooded coastal communities in Dak Lak province, which recorded 354 mm (1 foot) of rain in about six hours, Vietnam News reported.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-800-flights-cancelled-in-us-after-aviation-agency-s-directive-to-cut-air-traffic-1762518468183">Over 800 flights cancelled in US after aviation agency’s directive to cut air traffic</a>&nbsp;The reports added that 52 houses collapsed and nearly 2,600 others sustained damage, while roofs of hundreds of properties had blown off.Critical infrastructure, including grids and plants that supply power and energy to millions of residents, was also damaged. Power outages affected more than 1.6 million households.As many as 190 people were killed, and dozens were missing in the Philippines when the storm struck the archipelagic nation of more than 7,600 islands.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-american-lawyer-neal-katyal-to-argue-against-trump-s-tariffs-in-us-supreme-court-1762283120852">Indian-American lawyer Neal Katyal to argue against Trump’s tariffs in US Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared a state of national emergency on Thursday as the country braced for another potentially powerful storm, Typhoon Fung-wong, known locally as Uwan.The weather bureau said Fung-wong could expand to an estimated 1,400 kilometres in diameter before making landfall late on Sunday or early Monday in the northern Aurora province, affecting the densely populated capital region of Manila.&nbsp;Many trees were uprooted, power lines damaged, and buildings were flattened in Vietnam as Kalmaegi weakened into a tropical storm and moved into Cambodia on Friday.&nbsp;On Friday, residents woke up to see streets littered with fallen branches, twisted sheets of metal, and puddles of muddy water.&nbsp;Experts say the damage in Cambodia and Laos is likely to be less severe than that in the Philippines and Vietnam.

Heavy rains unleashed by Kalmaegi flooded coastal communities in Dak Lak province, which recorded 354 mm of rain in six hours, said a Vietnam News report. The reports added that 52 houses collapsed and nearly 2,600 others sustained damage, while roofs of hundreds of properties had blown off.

At least five people were killed in Vietnam after Typhoon Kalmaegi made landfall on Thursday, with fierce winds and torrential rains, causing widespread damage across the country’s central provinces, just days after the storm, classified as a tropical depression, claimed at least 188 lives in the Philippines, which is now bracing for the next storm. Local officials reported three deaths in Dak Lak and two in Gia Lai provinces, while three others remained missing in Quang Ngai, said Vietnamese state media. Kalmaegi, one of the strongest typhoons on record to hit Vietnam, brought torrential rains and destructive winds after leaving a trail of death and devastation in the central Philippines, reducing entire neighbourhoods to rubble and displacing tens of thousands of people. At least five people were killed and seven injured, state media Vietnam News reported, citing local authorities. Heavy rains unleashed by Kalmaegi also flooded coastal communities in Dak Lak province, which recorded 354 mm (1 foot) of rain in about six hours, Vietnam News reported. Also Read: Over 800 flights cancelled in US after aviation agency’s directive to cut air traffic The reports added that 52 houses collapsed and nearly 2,600 others sustained damage, while roofs of hundreds of properties had blown off. Critical infrastructure, including grids and plants that supply power and energy to millions of residents, was also damaged. Power outages affected more than 1.6 million households. As many as 190 people were killed, and dozens were missing in the Philippines when the storm struck the archipelagic nation of more than 7,600 islands. Also Read: Indian-American lawyer Neal Katyal to argue against Trump’s tariffs in US Supreme Court Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. declared a state of national emergency on Thursday as the country braced for another potentially powerful storm, Typhoon Fung-wong, known locally as Uwan. The weather bureau said Fung-wong could expand to an estimated 1,400 kilometres in diameter before making landfall late on Sunday or early Monday in the northern Aurora province, affecting the densely populated capital region of Manila. Many trees were uprooted, power lines damaged, and buildings were flattened in Vietnam as Kalmaegi weakened into a tropical storm and moved into Cambodia on Friday. On Friday, residents woke up to see streets littered with fallen branches, twisted sheets of metal, and puddles of muddy water. Experts say the damage in Cambodia and Laos is likely to be less severe than that in the Philippines and Vietnam.

Heavy rains unleashed by Kalmaegi flooded coastal communities in Dak Lak province, which recorded 354 mm of rain in six hours, said a Vietnam News report. The reports added that 52 houses collapsed and nearly 2,600 others sustained damage, while roofs of hundreds of properties had blown off.

At least five killed in Vietnam as Typhoon Kalmaegi makes landfall after unleashing devastation in Philippines

Typhoon Kalmaegi: Deadly typhoon strikes Southeast Asia, nearly 200 dead in Philippines

Typhoon Kalmaegi approaches Vietnam, bringing massive waves crashing against the shore. Coastal communities brace for impact as the storm moves closer. Watch the dramatic footage and stay safe if you’re in affected areas.

Typhoon Kalmaegi Strikes: Massive Waves Hit Vietnam Ahead of Typhoon Kalmaegi | WION 

China-Vietnam: Vietnam has stepped up island-building in the Spratly Islands in the South China Sea during 2025 to counter China’s maritime claims, creating artificial land on multiple reefs and fortifying outposts. This effort aims to narrow the gap with China’s extensive island-building and to bolster Vietnam’s territorial posture in contested waters. 


Vietnam Expands Artificial Islands Across Spratlys Amid Rising Tensions with China 

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Vietnam airlines flight takes off with just 91 metres of runway left after mid-air scare

23 Missing After Vietnamese Cargo Ship Sinks in South China Sea | Massive Rescue Ops Underway

Vietnam Boat Tragedy Kills 15 Indians; Boat Captain Under Probe

Why are Indian travellers skipping Thailand for this country?

Vietnam’s South China Sea Build-Up and the Global Rise of BrahMos

India-Vietnam Ties: India Confirms Talks With Vietnam on BrahMos Missile System

India-Vietnam Ties: To Lam India Visit Marks 10 Years of Strategic Ties, New Delhi-Hanoi Boost Ties

Vietnam: Lawmakers Unanimously Back to Lam's Presidency Bid | To Lam Begins 5-Yr Term As President

Vietnam Riders Hit by Fuel Price Surge

EU Warns China’s Role In Vietnam 5G May Hit Foreign Investment | WION

Thailand Arrests Vietnamese Man for Smuggling Rhino Horn, 12kg Meat Seized at Bangkok Airport

To Lam Consolidates Power As He Is Re-Elected Communist Party Of Vietnam General Secretary | WION

Vietnam's To Lam Secures Power with Re-Election as Party General Secretary

India Nears $450 Million BrahMos Missile Deal With Vietnam and Indonesia

India nears $450 million Brahmos missile export deals with Vietnam and Indonesia

Deadly Rains Batter Vietnam, Causing Severe Damage

Deadly Vietnam Floods: At Least 41 Killed as Roads Collapse & Rail Services Halted

Vietnam: Rains Cause Devastating Landslides, Kill Several in Vietnam

Super Typhoon Fung-Wong Kills 2 as Philippines Still Reels From Kalmaegi

Deadly Typhoon Kalmaegi Strikes Southeast Asia, Nearly 200 Dead In Philippines

At least five killed, many missing in Vietnam as Typhoon Kalmaegi makes landfall

Typhoon Kalmaegi: Deadly typhoon strikes Southeast Asia, nearly 200 dead in Philippines

Typhoon Kalmaegi Strikes: Massive Waves Hit Vietnam Ahead of Typhoon Kalmaegi | WION

Vietnam Expands Artificial Islands Across Spratlys Amid Rising Tensions with China