Key Takeaways
• Vietnam Airlines will launch non-stop Hanoi to Bengaluru and Hyderabad flights in May 2025, using Airbus A350-900 or Boeing 787-9.
• These routes improve connectivity for business and leisure travelers, aided by Vietnam’s visa-on-arrival policy for Indian citizens.
• Direct flights cut travel time to 4–5 hours, enhancing business opportunities and boosting tourism between Vietnam and southern India.
Vietnam Airlines, the flag carrier of Vietnam 🇻🇳, is making a strong push into the Indian 🇮🇳 aviation market with the launch of new non-stop flights to Bengaluru 🇮🇳 and Hyderabad 🇮🇳. This announcement, made in January 2025, signifies a major milestone in connecting Vietnam to key cities in southern India. These routes are set to take off in May 2025, marking Vietnam Airlines’ growing commitment to strengthen ties between the two nations.
Expanding Routes and Details
Starting May 2025, Vietnam Airlines will operate direct flights from Hanoi (HAN), Vietnam’s capital, to Bengaluru (BLR) and Hyderabad (HYD). This new addition complements its existing services to Delhi (DEL) and Mumbai (BOM), steadily broadening its reach within India. According to reports, these new services will use advanced widebody aircraft, either the Airbus A350-900 or Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. With large seating capacity and modern onboard facilities, travelers can look forward to a comfortable and efficient journey.
The specific schedules for these flights haven’t been shared yet, but industry insiders expect multiple weekly departures. Vietnam Airlines’ use of widebody aircraft suggests its focus on passenger comfort for these medium-haul routes. Similar to its Delhi and Mumbai services, the airline likely aims to provide consistent, quality service on flights to these newly added destinations.
The Importance of Bengaluru and Hyderabad
Bengaluru and Hyderabad are vital additions to the airline’s network, chosen for their economic importance and increasing demand for international air travel. Bengaluru, often called India’s “Silicon Valley,” is a global hub for information technology. On the other hand, Hyderabad, known for its IT and pharmaceutical industries, is another powerhouse of economic activity. By establishing direct connectivity, Vietnam Airlines aims to cater to professionals and businesses in these key sectors.
For leisure travelers, these cities are ideal gateways to southern India, offering connections to cultural landmarks and heritage sites. Meanwhile, direct access to Hanoi creates opportunities for Indian tourists keen to explore Vietnam’s scenic landscapes, rich history, and renowned hospitality.
Responding to Rising Demand
The new services are not just addressing existing demand—they are also aligned with recent developments between Vietnam and India. Bilateral agreements between the two countries have raised the weekly flight limits, paving the way for airlines like Vietnam Airlines to add new connections. This step reflects the significant rise in demand for both business and leisure travel, driven by economic growth on both sides.
Vietnam Airlines’ new routes are part of a broader strategy to match this demand. The airline recognizes India as one of its fastest-growing markets and is quick to act on the expanding travel needs of the region. Additionally, tourism between Vietnam and India is becoming increasingly attractive, helped by Vietnam’s visa-on-arrival policy for Indian citizens. Such policies simplify travel formalities, encouraging more tourists to explore Vietnam.
Impact on Tourism and Business Links
Direct flights between the two countries are expected to have a powerful impact on both tourism and business activities. Business professionals will benefit from quicker and easier commutes, opening doors for stronger trade and collaboration. For many, the reduced travel time will enable day trips for meetings or conferences, eliminating the need for stopovers, which often extend total travel time to 8–10 hours.
Tourism is likely to see considerable growth as well. Vietnam, with its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and diverse cuisine, has been gaining attention as a travel hotspot for Indians. Improved air connectivity combined with convenient visa policies is expected to make Vietnam a top choice for Indian globetrotters. Conversely, Vietnamese tourists might find unexplored opportunities in southern India, from bustling city life to serene countryside landscapes.
Competition and Traveler Benefits
Vietnam Airlines’ expansion comes at a time when competition in this sector is heating up. Low-cost carrier VietJet Air, also from Vietnam, is launching direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City to both Bengaluru and Hyderabad in March 2025. VietJet’s Hyderabad service begins on March 18, operating twice weekly, while Bengaluru flights are set to start on March 19, with three weekly flights. With multiple carriers vying for the Indian market, travelers stand to benefit from more flight options and possibly lower airfares.
This rivalry is good news for passengers, as airlines are likely to focus on offering competitive prices and better in-flight experiences. For Vietnam Airlines, being a premium carrier, its focus will likely remain on providing superior service and comfort, appealing to both leisure and business travelers willing to pay for convenience.
Broader Goals and Expansion
The flights to Bengaluru and Hyderabad are just one element of Vietnam Airlines’ larger international expansion plans. The flag carrier has its sights set on adding new routes to various continents. Planned destinations include Copenhagen in Europe, Los Angeles and Seattle in the U.S., Vancouver in Canada, Darwin in Australia, and Dubai in the Middle East. These expansions reflect the airline’s ambition to strengthen its global footprint while catering to upcoming travel demands.
Vietnam Airlines’ investment in high-capacity planes like the Airbus A350-900 and Boeing 787-9 further supports these plans. Such long-haul aircraft ensure operational efficiency and a seamless travel experience, both of which are critical to competing in international markets.
Role of Indian Aviation Boosts
Vietnam Airlines’ expansion comes as India continues building robust aviation infrastructure. With 149 airports currently operational and a target of 220 airports by year’s end, India is rapidly enhancing its air connectivity. This growth directly benefits international airlines by providing greater access to emerging markets within India.
India’s domestic carriers are also expanding their capacity, highlighted by major aircraft orders from airlines such as Air India. While this development isn’t directly related to Vietnam Airlines, it signifies the immense potential of India’s aviation market. Increasingly, international carriers view India as the central hub for future growth in Asia-Pacific.
Opportunities in Numbers
Economic projections suggest major growth in outbound travel from India, spurred by its rapidly expanding middle class and planned infrastructure expansions. In 2022, outbound trips from India were estimated at 13 million, but this number might balloon to over 80 million by 2040. According to a Mastercard report, Indian travelers are also taking longer holidays—with an average trip length of 10.6 days in 2024 compared to 8.6 days in 2020. More frequent short trips, lasting 2–3 days, are also on the rise.
These trends present a great opportunity for airlines like Vietnam Airlines to tap into India’s travel boom. Direct flights, combined with easy visa procedures, are expected to simplify vacation planning and business dealings alike, driving ticket sales across multiple demographics.
Practical Benefits for Travelers
One of the biggest advantages of these direct routes is the drastic reduction in travel time. Historically, passengers traveling on this route have needed to transit through hubs in cities like Bangkok or Singapore. This not only extended their journey to 8–10 hours but also added layers of complexity. With non-stop flights from Hanoi to Bengaluru and Hyderabad, travel time will now range between 4–5 hours, allowing for quick and convenient trips.
Additionally, for business travelers, the time saved could significantly lower associated costs, such as accommodation and meals for overnight stays. With the option for a same-day return, the convenience is unparalleled for those needing to balance tight schedules.
Conclusion
The new direct flights from Vietnam Airlines to Bengaluru and Hyderabad are setting the stage for a closer relationship between Vietnam and India. These routes, scheduled to begin in May 2025, will strengthen business ties, tourism, and cultural exchanges between the two countries. As per reports, the airline’s deployment of widebody aircraft on these routes ensures a comfortable and efficient travel experience.
At the same time, rising competition from carriers such as VietJet Air suggests an exciting new phase in Vietnam-India connectivity, providing travelers with more choices and competitive prices. Vietnam Airlines’ broader global expansion plans further illustrate the airline’s ambition to rise as a key player in international aviation.
For comprehensive information on Vietnam Airlines’ flights and services, travelers can visit Vietnam Airlines’ official site here. As airlines like Vietnam Airlines work to meet the surge in demand, connections like those between Hanoi, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad stand as a testament to the evolving air travel industry across Asia. For updates on visa policies and travel regulations related to Vietnam, VisaVerge.com’s analysis offers reliable insights into navigating the evolving travel landscape.
Learn Today
Flag carrier → The primary airline representing a country, often regarded as a symbol of national identity.
Widebody aircraft → Large airplanes with a spacious cabin, typically featuring two aisles and designed for medium to long-haul flights.
Visa-on-arrival → A travel policy allowing visitors to obtain a visa at their destination, simplifying the entry process.
Medium-haul routes → Flight paths covering moderate distances, generally lasting 3–6 hours, between destinations.
Connectivity → The degree to which transport links, like direct flights, enable easy travel between various geographic locations.
This Article in a Nutshell
Vietnam Airlines leaps into India’s booming aviation market with new non-stop flights to Bengaluru and Hyderabad from May 2025. Using advanced widebody aircraft, the route slashes travel time, boosting business links and tourism. This expansion underscores Vietnam Airlines’ commitment to India, promising enhanced connectivity, comfort, and vibrant cultural exchanges between the two nations.
— By VisaVerge.com
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