How Will Vietnam Airlines Resumed Hanoi-Moscow Flight Boost Global Connectivity and Tourism?

In a strategic move to strengthen its global presence, Vietnam Airlines has made significant expansions to its international route network in 2025, marking a clear commitment to enhancing connectivity, boosting tourism, and fostering economic ties across key global markets. These initiatives, which include reinstating routes, launching new services, and expanding flight frequencies, highlight the airline’s efforts to meet increasing travel demand and solidify Vietnam’s position as a growing hub for aviation.

Resumption of Hanoi-Moscow Flights to Strengthen Tourism and Trade

One of the most notable developments for Vietnam Airlines is the resumption of direct flights between Hanoi (HAN) and Moscow Sheremetyevo (SVO) on May 8, 2024, after a hiatus of three years due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. This route will initially operate twice a week on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with plans to increase to three weekly flights by July 2026. The reinstatement of this route is particularly significant given that Russia remains a critical tourism market for Vietnam, with a substantial increase in the number of passengers expected in 2024. More than 220,000 passengers are anticipated to travel between the two countries, more than doubling the figures recorded in 2023.

The resumption of this connection aims to aid the recovery of the tourism sector, stimulate trade, and strengthen cultural relations between the two countries. This move demonstrates the airline’s adaptability and responsiveness to market demands while playing a crucial role in connecting Vietnam with key global destinations.

New Direct Route to Beijing: Strengthening Vietnam-China Connectivity

In a further expansion of its international reach, Vietnam Airlines will launch a new direct route from Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) to Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) starting March 30, 2025. This route will operate five times a week, on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays, offering travelers greater flexibility and reduced travel times between southern Vietnam and China. The new service comes in response to growing demand and aims to meet the increasing travel needs between these two nations.

Additionally, the existing Hanoi-Beijing route will be upgraded to daily service to accommodate the surging demand for travel. With this expansion, the airline will operate six direct routes between Vietnam and China, significantly boosting tourism and trade relations. The efficient transport links at Daxing Airport further enhance passenger convenience, allowing travelers to reach downtown Beijing in just 40-50 minutes.

This new route is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening economic ties and increasing the flow of tourists between Vietnam and China, two rapidly growing markets in the region.

Direct Flights to Bali: Enhancing Tourism and Trade with Indonesia

Another significant expansion comes with the introduction of direct flights between Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) and Denpasar Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Bali, Indonesia, starting on June 1, 2025. This route will initially operate four times a week—on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays—with plans to increase to daily service by July 2025. This marks Vietnam Airlines’ second direct route to Indonesia, further enhancing tourism links between the two countries.

The launch of this service aligns with the growing demand for travel between Vietnam and Indonesia, which remains Southeast Asia’s largest travel market. In 2024, passenger traffic between the two countries reached a substantial 800,000, reflecting a 61% increase compared to 2019. This expansion is expected to further fuel tourism growth, benefiting both countries economically by facilitating easier travel and trade.

In addition, Vietnam Airlines has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Association of Indonesian Travel Agents (ASTINDO) to promote bilateral tourism. This partnership is set to enhance two-way tourism promotion, develop collaborative marketing strategies, and increase the airline’s presence in the Indonesian market.

Global Implications of Vietnam Airlines’ Route Expansions

The strategic route expansions by Vietnam Airlines highlight its proactive approach to positioning itself as a key player in the global aviation industry. These new and resumed flights are not just about connecting Vietnam to major global markets, but also about stimulating tourism, trade, and cultural exchanges. With an expanding global network, Vietnam Airlines is contributing significantly to the broader tourism industry, especially in the Southeast Asia region.

For travelers, these new routes offer greater accessibility and flexibility, especially for those looking to visit Vietnam, China, Russia, and Indonesia. The ease of direct flights means less travel time, more convenience, and enhanced travel experiences for passengers.

These expansions also reflect the broader trends in the aviation industry, where increased connectivity is driving economic growth, supporting tourism recovery post-pandemic, and fostering cultural exchanges between nations. As Vietnam Airlines expands its services, it is strengthening its position as a hub for international travel and contributing to the growth of tourism in the countries it serves.

A Bold Step Towards Global Connectivity

Vietnam Airlines’ expansion into new markets and the restoration of key routes reflects its commitment to global connectivity, supporting the growth of tourism and trade. With its strategic approach to expanding its route network, the airline is solidifying its role as a leading aviation provider in Asia and beyond. The launch of direct flights to Moscow, Beijing, and Bali represents a bold step forward in meeting the evolving demands of international travelers.