Vietravel Airlines, a Vietnamese airline, launched direct flights to China from Hanoi, marking another milestone in its expansion plans.

The Vietnamese airline, together with its partner, has launched a series of flights to increase travel between China and Vietnam. Photo: Vietravel Airlines

The inaugural flight, code VU1418, departed from Hanoi's Noi Bai International Airport on August 20 and landed at Sanya Phoenix International Airport in Hainan, China, on the same day. On board were more than 130 passengers, of which 80% traveled for tourist purposes.

This new route is expected to serve as the basis for Vietravel Airlines to continue developing regular commercial flights between Vietnam and China. The airline has been working closely with its partners to facilitate increased travel between the two countries.

Vu Duc Bien, General Director of Vietravel Airlines, highlighted the importance of China as one of the largest markets in Asia. He noted that China was one of the first destinations the airline intended to fly to since its establishment. The Chinese government's decision to include Vietnam in a pilot program for outbound group tours further encouraged Vietravel Airlines to explore the potential of this market.

In its business plan for the second half of 2023, Vietravel Airlines aims to expand its fleet, focus on human resource training, and develop both domestic and international flight networks.

Vietnam has witnessed a steady influx of visitors from China. In the first half of 2023, more than 550,000 Chinese tourists visited Vietnam, making China one of the top five foreign source markets.

Since March 15, 2023, Hanoi has consistently ranked among China's top three international tourism markets, receiving an average of 25,500 Chinese tourists per month.

In addition, from August 15, 2023, Vietnam implemented the issuance of electronic visas for all foreign passengers, including Chinese. This move has created a positive environment for airlines and domestic travel companies to expand their flight offerings and develop suitable tourism products.

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