5 best spots to watch fighter jet aerobatic display in downtown Ho Chi Minh City on Reunification Day
Ho Chi Minh City will host a grand military parade to commemorate Vietnam’s Reunification Day on April 30, so thousands of residents and visitors are eager to eye the skies for one of the most anticipated parts of the celebration: an aerial display featuring helicopters carrying the national flag and SU-30MK fighter jets performing thrilling maneuvers.
Helicopters and fighter jets will depart from Bien Hoa Airbase in Dong Nai Province to the heart of the southern metropolis, circling key city landmarks such as the Reunification Palace, Bach Dang Wharf, the Saigon River, and the Ba Son area.
The aerial showcase promises a dramatic highlight: two separate flare-drop performances by fighter jets.
The first is expected to occur above the Marina Central Tower in District 1 when three jets approach the city center from Binh Thanh District.
Meanwhile, the second formation will cross the Saigon River from District 4 and release flares directly opposite Bach Dang Wharf.
For those keen to witness the aerial artistry in full, selecting a viewing spot with clear sightlines and proximity to the flight path is key.
Here are the five best vantage points recommended by Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper:
Saigon Waterbus Pier (Bach Dang Wharf)
Widely regarded as the premier viewing location, this riverside pier offers a direct line of sight to the flight path.
The location is near the artillery salute area, allowing spectators to witness both the aerial show and ceremonial cannon fire.
Saigon River Park on the Thu Thiem side
The Saigon River Park along the Saigon River bank on the Thu Thiem New Urban Area side offers panoramic views of downtown Ho Chi Minh City, enabling spectators to enjoy a full perspective of the city skyline and the jets as they soar and perform overhead.
Ba Son Area
Located near the river with open spaces and fewer obstructions, the Ba Son area is ideal for viewing low-altitude flights and flare drops.
Mong Bridge – Khanh Hoi Bridge
The two bridges provide wide, unobstructed views of the aircraft as they fly from District 4 over the Saigon River.
Minimal tree cover and clear access make them reliable and accessible vantage points.
Nguyen Huu Canh Street – Thu Thiem Bridge
The bridge and adjacent street are aligned with the expected flight path, making it a solid choice for viewing the full approach and aerial formations.
Two locations designated for the flare-drop performances by fighter jets on April 30, 2025. Photo: Chau Tuan / Tuoi Tre
Additional options for viewing include high-rise buildings and rooftop cafés along Ton Duc Thang, Nguyen Hue, and Le Loi Streets.
These spots may provide limited but still impressive angles of the flight paths and the post-parade regrouping of military units along Le Duan Boulevard.
Preparations for April 30 parade
In the lead-up to the event, Ho Chi Minh City is abuzz with rehearsals and final preparations.
Large LED screens have been installed across key areas, and the full-scale rehearsal on April 27 drew large crowds as 38 formations of military personnel and militia paraded along Le Duan Boulevard, accompanied by a spectacular preview of the aerial show.
Residents gather in front of Bach Dang Wharf in Ho Chi Minh City to watch the aerial fighter jet display. Photo: Chau Tuan / Tuoi Tre
At Bach Dang Wharf Park, from the early morning on April 27, 2025, large crowds of locals and tourists gathered to watch the aerial rehearsal. Many brought binoculars and professional cameras, while children were lifted onto their parents’ shoulders to catch a glimpse of the fighter jets. Along the park, some people even laid out mats and brought breakfast, relaxing as they eagerly waited for the aircraft to appear overhead. Photo: Chau Tuan / Tuoi Tre
Fighter jets perform aerobatic maneuvers over Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Chau Tuan / Tuoi Tre
Choppers carrying the national flag fly over Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Chau Tuan / Tuoi Tre
Tieu Bac - Chau Tuan / Tuoi Tre News