Flight Time to Vietnam: How Long is the Flight from U.S. Cities Like New York and L.A.?

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The flight time from the U.S. to Vietnam depends on your departure city. Nonstop flights from San Francisco take about 16 hours 20 minutes. Flights from New York last around 18 hours 16 minutes. With layovers, flights range from 20 to 37 hours. The average distance is about 8,327 miles.

On the other hand, flights from Los Angeles to Vietnam usually last between 14 to 18 hours. Direct flights are rare, so expect connections, which can extend your travel time. Major airlines offer routes that frequently stop in locations such as Hong Kong or Taipei.

When planning your trip, consider that flight times can vary due to factors like weather and air traffic. Additionally, travelers should take into account the time zone difference, as Vietnam is several hours ahead, affecting jet lag and arrival times.

Understanding flight time to Vietnam helps in preparing for your journey. The next section will cover tips for booking flights and making the most of layover times.

What Determines Flight Time to Vietnam from the United States?

The flight time to Vietnam from the United States varies based on several factors, including departure city, flight route, and layovers.

  1. Departure City
  2. Flight Route
  3. Layovers
  4. Airline Choice
  5. Time of Year
  6. Weather Conditions

Understanding these factors helps travelers anticipate flight durations effectively.

1. Departure City:
The departure city significantly impacts flight time. Major cities, such as Los Angeles (LAX) and New York (JFK), typically have more direct flights to Vietnam. For instance, a direct flight from LAX to Ho Chi Minh City usually takes around 14 to 15 hours. In contrast, a flight from JFK to Hanoi may take approximately 16 to 18 hours, including travel time for layovers.

2. Flight Route:
The flight route determines the total distance and the duration. Direct flights are generally faster than those with stopovers. Flights from the U.S. often stop in places like Tokyo or Seoul. According to a report from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) in 2022, traveling via a layover can add anywhere from 2 to 6 hours to the total flight time.

3. Layovers:
Layovers add significant time to the journey. The duration of layovers can vary widely, from a couple of hours to an overnight stay. Therefore, travelers might find a flight advertised as 20 hours long is simply a result of a long layover at an airport.

4. Airline Choice:
Different airlines have unique flight paths and layover times. For example, major airlines like Vietnam Airlines and American Airlines may offer more direct routes compared to others. Each airline has various schedules, which can impact total travel time.

5. Time of Year:
Seasonal travel patterns can affect flight availability and duration. For instance, peak travel seasons might lead to fewer direct flights, increasing the likelihood of layovers. According to a recent survey by Airlines for America, flight times can be extended by 10% during busy travel months, such as summer and December.

6. Weather Conditions:
Weather can also impact flights, causing delays. Severe weather in either the departure city or transit hubs can lead to longer travel times. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reports that weather-related delays can account for up to 30% of all flight delays during peak storm seasons.

By evaluating these factors, travelers can prepare better and make informed decisions about their journey to Vietnam.

How Does the Distance from Major U.S. Cities to Vietnam Affect Flight Duration?

The distance from major U.S. cities to Vietnam directly affects flight duration. Longer distances result in longer flight times. For example, flights from New York to Vietnam typically last around 16 to 20 hours, while flights from Los Angeles take about 14 to 18 hours.

To understand this, we need to consider a few key components. First, the distance in miles between the city and Vietnam is significant. Flights from New York cover approximately 8,500 miles. Flights from Los Angeles are about 7,500 miles. Second, flight paths may vary. This includes layovers and air traffic, impacting the overall duration.

Next, consider flight speed. Commercial jets commonly travel at speeds of 500 to 600 miles per hour. Therefore, longer distances require more time. Additionally, factors like wind speeds and flight routes influence actual travel time.

In conclusion, the greater the distance from a major U.S. city to Vietnam, the longer the flight duration will be. Smaller distances allow for quicker travel, while larger distances naturally extend the time needed to reach Vietnam.

What is the Impact of Layovers on Flight Times to Vietnam?

Layovers refer to the stops between connecting flights during air travel. These stops can significantly extend overall flight times to a destination, such as Vietnam, due to waiting periods at intermediate airports.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) defines layovers as any scheduled stop at an intermediate airport that is longer than the time needed to change planes. Layovers are often planned in the flight itinerary depending on routes and flight availability.

The impact of layovers includes increased travel duration, potential for missed connections, and passenger fatigue. Layovers can also vary in length, from short stops of a few hours to lengthy waits of 24 hours or more, significantly affecting arrival times.

The U.S. Department of Transportation points out that layovers can also provide opportunities for passengers to explore the layover city, but they may increase overall travel costs.

Layover duration can depend on flight routes, airline schedules, and layover locations. Major cities like Tokyo or Beijing may offer longer layovers due to limited direct flights to Vietnam.

Statistics from the Federal Aviation Administration indicate that flights with layovers can extend travel times by 2 to 8 hours on average. This data illustrates that layovers can alter the typical travel time to Vietnam.

Lengthy layovers contribute to passenger stress, fatigue, and jet lag, while also impacting airlines’ operational efficiency and scheduling.

These effects can influence the travel experience, economic aspects of tourism, and logistical issues for airlines.

For example, travelers may experience extended waiting times that could lead to them seeking accommodations or meals at the layover point.

To address these issues, the World Travel Organization recommends optimizing flight schedules and minimizing layover durations when possible.

Strategies include using direct flight options when available, scheduling shorter layovers, and utilizing airport lounge services for comfort during longer waits.

How Do Seasonal Weather Conditions Influence Flights to Vietnam?

Seasonal weather conditions significantly influence flights to Vietnam by impacting flight schedules, safety considerations, and passenger demand. The effects include variations in weather patterns, potential flight delays, and seasonal pricing trends.

  • Variations in weather patterns: Vietnam experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The rainy season, from May to October, brings heavy rainfall and potential disruptions to flight operations. For instance, Typhoon season can cause cancellations or delays in this timeframe, impacting airport operations and flight schedules.

  • Potential flight delays: Adverse weather conditions such as thunderstorms or heavy fog can lead to delays or diversions. For example, a study by the International Journal of Aviation, Aeronautics, and Aerospace (Smith, 2021) notes that inclement weather can delay an average of 20% of flights during the rainy season.

  • Seasonal pricing trends: Airlines may adjust ticket prices based on seasonal demand influenced by weather. During dry season months, which typically run from November to April, more tourists travel to Vietnam, resulting in higher fares. Conversely, during the rainy season, prices may decrease due to lower demand.

  • Route adjustments: Airlines may change their routes or schedules in response to seasonal weather. During peak monsoon months, some airlines may reduce flights to certain destinations within Vietnam known for severe weather, ensuring better operational efficiency.

These weather-related factors can thus shape the experience and planning for travelers flying to Vietnam. Understanding them can help passengers make informed decisions regarding their travel plans.

How Long is the Nonstop Flight from New York to Vietnam?

The nonstop flight from New York to Vietnam typically takes around 16 to 18 hours. The exact duration depends on various factors, including the specific departure and arrival airports.

Flights from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City usually range from 16 to 17 hours. Conversely, flights to Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi may take slightly longer, averaging 17 to 18 hours.

Several factors can influence flight duration. These include:

  • Weather conditions: Adverse weather can lead to delays and longer flight times.
  • Flight path: Airlines may choose different routes that can increase or decrease travel time.
  • Air traffic: Congestion at airports can affect takeoff and landing times.

For example, a direct flight from JFK to SGN might experience turbulence or detours due to weather, potentially extending the travel time by 30 minutes to an hour.

Additionally, travelers should consider layover times if they opt for connecting flights, which can significantly increase total travel time. Depending on airline schedules, these layovers can vary from a couple of hours to more than 12 hours.

In summary, nonstop flights from New York to Vietnam generally take between 16 and 18 hours. Various factors, including weather, flight path, and air traffic, can affect the duration. For those planning to travel, it is useful to check specific flight information and potential layover options to better estimate total travel time.

What’s the Average Flight Duration from New York (JFK) to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN)?

The average flight duration from New York (JFK) to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) is approximately 16 to 20 hours, including layovers.

  1. Average direct flight time
  2. Common layover cities
  3. Variability due to seasonal factors
  4. Airline options
  5. Time zone differences

The factors influencing flight duration highlight the complexity of air travel and its variability.

  1. Average Direct Flight Time: The average direct flight time from New York (JFK) to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) takes about 16 to 18 hours. However, there are very few direct flights available. Most journeys include layovers, extending overall travel time.

  2. Common Layover Cities: Common layover cities for this route include Tokyo (NRT), Seoul (ICN), and Taipei (TPE). Layovers typically add 2 to 5 hours to the total travel duration. Each additional segment increases the total flight time and can affect travel plans.

  3. Variability Due to Seasonal Factors: Flight times can vary according to the season. Weather conditions, high travel seasons, and flight availability affect overall duration. For instance, increased passenger volume during holiday periods may lead to longer layovers or more congested travel paths.

  4. Airline Options: Multiple airlines operate flights between New York (JFK) and Ho Chi Minh City (SGN). Major carriers include Vietnam Airlines, United Airlines, and Japan Airlines. Each airline has different routing and layover durations, leading to variations in total trip time.

  5. Time Zone Differences: New York and Ho Chi Minh City have a significant time difference. Ho Chi Minh City is typically 12 to 14 hours ahead of New York, depending on daylight saving changes. This time difference can impact passengers’ schedules upon arrival, creating a sense of longer travel duration.

Overall, understanding these components helps travelers anticipate and plan for their journey from New York to Ho Chi Minh City.

What’s the Average Flight Duration from New York (JFK) to Hanoi (HAN)?

The average flight duration from New York (JFK) to Hanoi (HAN) is approximately 15 to 17 hours, including layovers.

Key points regarding flights from JFK to HAN include:
1. Non-stop flights
2. One-stop flights
3. Average layover times
4. Flight frequency
5. Factors affecting duration (weather, air traffic, etc.)

Given these various factors, it is important to understand each point to get a complete picture of flight durations.

  1. Non-stop Flights: Non-stop flights operate directly from JFK to HAN. However, currently, there are no dedicated non-stop flights for this route. Most travelers must connect at major hubs.

  2. One-stop Flights: Many airlines offer one-stop flights from JFK to HAN. Common layover cities include Tokyo, Seoul, and Beijing. These connections typically add 2 to 6 hours to the travel time, depending on the duration of the layover.

  3. Average Layover Times: Average layover times can vary significantly depending on the airline and route. Layovers can range from 1.5 hours to over 12 hours. Longer layovers may provide more flexibility in scheduling but extend total travel time.

  4. Flight Frequency: Flight frequency varies by day and season. Generally, several airlines operate flights from JFK to HAN each day. This includes major carriers such as Vietnam Airlines, Delta, and American Airlines.

  5. Factors Affecting Duration: Various factors can affect flight duration. Weather conditions can lead to delays. Additionally, air traffic in busy airports and the efficiency of airport ground operations can influence total travel time.

Understanding the average flight duration and the factors involved is crucial for planning a trip from New York to Hanoi.

How Long is the Nonstop Flight from Los Angeles to Vietnam?

The nonstop flight from Los Angeles to Vietnam generally lasts around 15 to 18 hours. Flight durations can vary based on factors like air traffic, weather conditions, and the specific routes chosen by airlines.

Most nonstop flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to major airports in Vietnam, such as Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi or Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City, typically average about 16 hours.

For instance, a flight from LAX to SGN might take approximately 16 hours and 20 minutes while a flight to HAN could take around 15 hours and 50 minutes depending on the airline schedule. Airlines like Vietnam Airlines and Korean Air often operate these routes, which can influence overall flight times.

Several factors may influence these flight durations. Wind patterns, particularly jet streams, can accelerate or decelerate flights, affecting total flight time. Seasonal weather conditions, such as storms or turbulence, can also lead to delays or extended flight paths. Additionally, different airlines may offer slightly different times based on their flight itineraries and layovers.

In summary, the average nonstop flight duration from Los Angeles to Vietnam is approximately 15 to 18 hours. Variations occur due to factors like wind conditions, airline routes, and weather, making it important for travelers to check specific flight details. Future travelers may want to explore factors like seasonal pricing, layover options, or alternative nearby airports for their travel plans.

What’s the Average Flight Duration from Los Angeles (LAX) to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN)?

The average flight duration from Los Angeles (LAX) to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) is approximately 16 to 18 hours, including layovers.

  1. Non-stop flights
  2. One-stop flights
  3. Different airlines
  4. Seasonal variations
  5. Time zone differences

The factors influencing flight duration can vary. Understanding these elements can enhance travel planning and offer better insight into scheduling.

  1. Non-stop flights:
    Non-stop flights from LAX to SGN provide the quickest travel option. These flights typically take around 16 hours. Airlines like Vietnam Airlines and American Airlines offer this service. For travelers prioritizing time, non-stop flights are preferred.

  2. One-stop flights:
    One-stop flights usually involve a layover in cities such as Tokyo or Seoul. These flights can exceed 18 hours or more based on layover time. Passengers might choose this option for lower fares or added flexibility in travel times.

  3. Different airlines:
    Different airlines have varying flight times due to their specific routes and scheduling preferences. For instance, Singapore Airlines may have a longer total travel time despite shorter flight legs because of longer layovers.

  4. Seasonal variations:
    Flight durations may change seasonally due to air traffic, weather conditions, or airline schedules. Peak travel seasons often lead to longer travel times with potential delays.

  5. Time zone differences:
    The time zone difference between Los Angeles (UTC-8) and Ho Chi Minh City (UTC+7) affects travelers’ perceptions of flight duration. Despite the actual flight time being consistent, the total travel experience can feel different due to the time zone shift upon arrival.

Understanding these factors helps travelers select the best options for their journey from Los Angeles to Ho Chi Minh City.

What’s the Average Flight Duration from Los Angeles (LAX) to Hanoi (HAN)?

The average flight duration from Los Angeles (LAX) to Hanoi (HAN) is approximately 15 to 20 hours, depending on flight routes and layovers.

  1. Flight duration can vary based on:
    – Number of layovers
    – Length of layovers
    – Airline choice
    – Weather conditions

When considering the factors influencing flight duration, it is important to understand each component that can affect travel time.

  1. Flight Duration Variation:
    Flight duration variation occurs based on different factors affecting how long the total travel time will be. A direct flight will obviously take less time than one with one or more layovers. Moreover, each airline may have different operational efficiency, influencing overall duration.

  2. Number of Layovers:
    The number of layovers directly impacts flight duration. A nonstop flight from LAX to HAN will generally take around 15 hours, while flights with one or more layovers may increase total travel time significantly. Layover cities often include major hubs such as San Francisco, Tokyo, or Seoul.

  3. Length of Layovers:
    The length of layovers can significantly influence the total travel time. Short layovers may result in a flight time close to 20 hours, while long layovers could extend this to 30 hours or more, as travelers must wait for connecting flights.

  4. Airline Choice:
    Airline choice affects not only cost but also duration. Some airlines may offer more efficient routes, making better use of available air traffic. For instance, airlines like Vietnam Airlines or American Airlines may provide quicker connections.

  5. Weather Conditions:
    Weather conditions including storms or heavy air traffic can delay flights and increase total duration. Such variables are sometimes unpredictable, adding an element of uncertainty to travel planning.

In conclusion, the flight duration from LAX to HAN varies significantly based on the specifics of each journey.

Which Airlines Offer the Fastest Flights to Vietnam?

Vietnam’s fastest flights are typically offered by airlines such as Qatar Airways, Vietnam Airlines, and Singapore Airlines.

  1. Qatar Airways
  2. Vietnam Airlines
  3. Singapore Airlines
  4. Cathay Pacific
  5. Emirates

Different travelers might have varied perspectives when choosing airlines based on factors such as layovers, ticket prices, and overall service quality. For instance, direct flights may be valued by those prioritizing time efficiency, while budget travelers might prefer airlines with lower fares, even if they include longer routes.

Examining airlines offering the fastest flights to Vietnam, Qatar Airways provides rapid connections through Doha, allowing for an efficient travel time to various Vietnamese cities. According to their official site, flights from New York to Ho Chi Minh City can take around 20 hours, including layovers. Vietnam Airlines operates a range of direct flights, marking its efficiency for travelers who prefer nonstop routes. For instance, flights from Los Angeles to Hanoi can take approximately 15 hours. Singapore Airlines is also a prominent option, connecting major cities in the U.S. to Vietnam via Singapore, enhancing travel options while maintaining competitive speed.

Cathay Pacific caters to those who may wish for quality service combined with reasonable flight durations, while Emirates often attracts leisure travelers with its extensive network and service amenities, despite longer overall travel times. Each airline’s offerings may cater to different traveler requirements, such as savings versus speed, potentially influencing the choice of carriers when flying to Vietnam.

What Are the Key Factors That Influence Flight Duration Among Different Airlines?

Flight duration among different airlines is influenced by several key factors.

  1. Route Distance
  2. Aircraft Type
  3. Weather Conditions
  4. Air Traffic Control
  5. Airline Operational Procedures
  6. Layovers and Connections
  7. Regulatory Factors

The interaction of these factors can significantly impact flight times, making it essential to understand each one.

  1. Route Distance: The distance between the departure and arrival airports greatly affects flight duration. Longer routes naturally require more time to cover. For instance, a flight from New York to Tokyo spans approximately 6,740 miles, leading to longer flight times compared to a shorter route, such as from San Francisco to Los Angeles, which is about 340 miles.

  2. Aircraft Type: Different aircraft have varying cruising speeds and fuel efficiencies. For example, a Boeing 747 typically flies faster than smaller regional jets. This difference can lead to variations in flight durations on the same route, as larger planes may cover the distance more quickly.

  3. Weather Conditions: Weather plays a crucial role in flight duration. Headwinds, for example, can slow down an aircraft, while tailwinds can enhance speed. The National Weather Service notes that planes flying from east to west may spend more time in the air due to opposing winds.

  4. Air Traffic Control: Air traffic management may lead to delays or diversions that extend flight times. High traffic areas, such as near major international airports, often require adjustments in flight paths or holding patterns, impacting total travel time.

  5. Airline Operational Procedures: Each airline has its operational guidelines which can affect flight durations. For instance, an airline may adopt a policy of flying at slower speeds for fuel conservation, thereby potentially extending flight times compared to competitors who prioritize speed.

  6. Layovers and Connections: Flights with layovers increase total travel time. A direct flight will always be shorter than a connecting flight, which adds time for boarding, taxiing, and waiting between flights.

  7. Regulatory Factors: Government regulations may influence flight operations. For example, some regions require specific flight paths for environmental reasons, which can add time. The FAA frequently updates regulations that impact how and where planes can operate, necessitating adherence and leading to longer flights.

Understanding these factors helps travelers estimate flight durations more accurately across different airlines, leading to better planning and expectations.

What Alternatives Exist for Shortening the Total Travel Time to Vietnam?

To shorten the total travel time to Vietnam, travelers can consider various alternatives.

  1. Direct flights
  2. Stopover strategies
  3. Alternative airports
  4. Time-efficient travel routes
  5. Travel time optimization technologies

These alternatives have different implications and can vary based on individual travel circumstances.

  1. Direct flights: Direct flights eliminate the need for layovers, making travel shorter and more straightforward. Major airlines operate non-stop flights to Vietnam from cities like Los Angeles and New York, reducing total travel time significantly. For instance, a direct flight from Los Angeles to Ho Chi Minh City typically takes about 15 to 16 hours, compared to longer journeys with layovers.

  2. Stopover strategies: Stopover strategies involve choosing flights with layovers that are either short or long enough to explore another destination. While this may extend total travel time, it provides an opportunity for additional experiences. Airlines like Qatar Airways and Emirates often create travel packages that allow a brief stop in cities like Doha or Dubai, making the overall journey more enjoyable.

  3. Alternative airports: Using alternative airports can reduce travel times. For instance, flying out of major hubs like San Francisco or Seattle may offer more direct options to Vietnam than smaller airports. Travelers should compare flight schedules from different airports to identify advantageous routes.

  4. Time-efficient travel routes: Certain travel routes are more time-efficient based on layover locations. For example, flights with layovers in East Asian hubs such as Tokyo or Seoul often have better connections to Vietnam than routes through European cities. Analyzing connection times and flight lengths is crucial for optimizing the overall travel time.

  5. Travel time optimization technologies: New technologies and apps can help travelers find the fastest routes available. Applications provide real-time data on flight delays and optimized connecting flights. Tools like Google Flights and Skyscanner allow users to compare various travel options quickly and efficiently.

By implementing these strategies, travelers can potentially reduce their total travel time to Vietnam while enhancing their overall trip experience.

What Are the Benefits of Taking One-Stop Flights to Vietnam?

Taking one-stop flights to Vietnam offers several benefits for travelers.

  1. Cost-effectiveness
  2. Flexible itineraries
  3. Opportunity for layovers
  4. Better flight availability
  5. Quicker travel for some routes

These benefits arise not just from economic factors but also reflect the diverse needs of travelers.

  1. Cost-effectiveness:
    Taking one-stop flights to Vietnam can be more cost-effective than direct flights. One-stop flights typically have cheaper fares due to increased competition among airlines. A 2020 analysis by the Bureau of Transportation Statistics showed that travelers can save up to 30% on average when opting for one-stop rather than direct routes. For example, a traveler flying from Los Angeles to Ho Chi Minh City might find a significant fare difference when selecting a one-stop option. This factor often leads people to choose connecting flights, especially during peak travel seasons.

  2. Flexible itineraries:
    One-stop flights allow for more flexible travel itineraries. Travelers can choose layover cities based on interests or schedule demands. For instance, a passenger might connect in Tokyo or Seoul, creating an opportunity to explore these vibrant cities briefly. According to a study conducted by Skyscanner in 2021, nearly 62% of travelers appreciated the chance to extend their trips by adding stops. Such flexibility adds an extra layer of experience to the journey.

  3. Opportunity for layovers:
    Taking one-stop flights frequently presents the option of layovers in interesting destinations. Passengers can take advantage of layover excursions or simply enjoy the amenities of major airports. Singapore Airlines, for example, offers complimentary city tours for passengers with long layovers. This feature effectively turns travel time into a mini-vacation, enriching the overall travel experience.

  4. Better flight availability:
    One-stop flights often provide better availability for specific routes. Some airports only connect to certain cities through one-stop services. This situation can ease logistical challenges for travelers intending to reach smaller Vietnamese cities. For example, connecting flights through major hubs like Bangkok or Hong Kong may offer more frequent departures to Vietnam than direct flights from their departure city.

  5. Quicker travel for some routes:
    For certain routes, one-stop flights can be quicker than direct options. Depending on the departure city and the chosen layover city, some one-stop flights may have shorter total travel times. A study by travel consultancy OAG stated that in some instances, connecting flights were faster for flights from the U.S. East Coast to Vietnam than direct alternatives, considering aircraft availability and time schedules. This benefit can enhance overall travel efficiency, making it attractive for business travelers.

How Can Booking Strategies Affect Overall Travel Time to Vietnam?

Booking strategies significantly influence overall travel time to Vietnam by affecting flight availability, layover durations, and travel routes. Strategic planning can minimize travel time, enhance the trip experience, and reduce costs.

First, selecting the right booking platform can improve options. Many travel sites offer filters for non-stop flights. Non-stop flights reduce travel time significantly compared to flights with layovers. A study by the International Air Transport Association (IATA, 2021) highlighted that non-stop flights can save travelers an average of three to six hours of total travel time compared to multi-stop routes.

Next, travelers should book flights during off-peak seasons. Scheduling flights during less busy periods often leads to fewer crowds and potentially shorter layover times. For instance, flights to Vietnam are less crowded from February to April, resulting in a smoother travel experience.

Third, understanding airline routing can impact total travel time. Different airlines may have varied routes to Vietnam. Some airlines offer direct or shorter connecting flights, which can cut hours from travel times. Research by OAG (2022) indicates that choosing a carrier with more efficient routing can decrease travel time by an average of 2.5 hours.

Finally, being flexible with travel dates is crucial. Shifting departure dates by a few days can lead to better flight options and shorter overall durations. According to Skyscanner (2023), flexible travelers can save up to 20% in time and cost by adjusting their schedules to match optimal flight dates.

By considering these strategies, travelers can effectively manage their travel time to Vietnam, making their journey more efficient and enjoyable.

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