Da Nang greets 1,600 first arrivals at start of 2026

Early on New Year’s Day, the Da Nang Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, in coordination with aviation and tourism stakeholders, organized a series of welcome ceremonies for passengers arriving at Da Nang International Airport.

At the domestic terminal, Vietnam Airlines flight VN157 from the capital city of Ha Noi landed with over 180 passengers, becoming one of the first flights to the city in 2026.

Authorities presented flowers and souvenirs to three lucky passengers who were among the first to set foot in Da Nang in the early hours of 2026, while all travelers on the flight received commemorative gifts.

A festive atmosphere filled the terminal as LED drum performances and artistic shows conveyed the message “Happy New Year 2026 - Welcome to Da Nang.”

Upon arrival, visitors were invited to experience a 360-degree photo booth branded “360° Welcome Da Nang” and enjoy complimentary coffee, offering a warm and memorable start to their journey in the city.

At the international terminal, eight inbound flights from such destinations as Manila, Incheon, Busan, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore brought nearly 1,400 international visitors to Da Nang.

Five lucky international passengers were selected to receive flowers and welcome gifts, while traditional and contemporary art performances created a lively and celebratory atmosphere throughout the terminal.

According to data from Da Nang International Airport and the Chu Lai Airport, the New Year holiday period from December 30, 2025 to January 4, 2026 is expected to see approximately 831 domestic and international flights arriving in Da Nang, representing a 13.9% increase compared with the same period in 2025.

Domestic flights are estimated at 464, up 18.9%, while international flights are projected at 367, an increase of 8.2%.

Meanwhile, at 9:00 a.m. on January 1, the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism hosted a ceremony to welcome the first tourist group visiting the Hoi An Ancient Town in 2026 at the iconic Cau Pagoda.

The event brought together local authorities, tourism businesses, media representatives and visitors, who enjoyed traditional performances and received flowers and souvenirs before beginning a guided tour of key heritage sites.

Similar welcome activities were held simultaneously at major attractions across central Vietnam, including My Son Sanctuary, the Marble Mountains and the Bay Mau Coconut Forest.

The coordinated New Year welcome programmes not only marked a symbolic beginning for 2026 but also reinforced confidence and determination across the tourism industry as Da Nang targets double-digit growth.