Vietnam Airlines, the country’s national flag carrier, is gearing up for a busy National Day holiday season. To meet the anticipated surge in travel demand, the airline will offer a remarkable 500,000 seats on nearly 2,500 flights from August 30 to September 4. This represents a significant increase in capacity compared to the same period last year, reflecting the airline’s commitment to accommodating the growing number of travelers during this popular holiday.
The additional flights will primarily serve domestic routes linking major cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Da Lat, Cam Ranh, Hue, and Phu Quoc. Domestic routes will see a 19% increase in capacity, with approximately 330,000 seats available. On international routes, Vietnam Airlines will add more flights between Vietnam and popular destinations like India, China, Thailand, and Australia, with over 150,000 seats available on over 650 flights.
The airline has noted strong booking trends for key domestic tourist routes, with bookings already reaching nearly 50%. International routes to India, China, Thailand, and Australia are also experiencing robust demand, with occupancy rates ranging from 50% to 70%.
Vietnam Airlines’ efforts to meet the travel demand during the National Day holiday are particularly noteworthy considering the global aviation industry’s ongoing challenges, including aircraft shortages due to engine inspections. Despite these challenges, Vietnam Airlines recently added an Airbus A320neo and a Boeing 787-10 to its fleet to enhance its capacity and better serve the increased demand during the peak summer season.
To ensure a smooth travel experience for passengers, Vietnam Airlines recommends booking tickets early to secure preferred flight options and potentially lower prices. The airline also encourages passengers to complete their check-in process in advance through various channels, including phone, website, mobile app, or airport kiosks, to save time and avoid potential delays at the airport.
