Vietnam Airlines Launches Nonstop Flights to Milan
Vietnam Airlines is set to make aviation history in Vietnam by offering nonstop flights to Italy. Starting July 1, 2025, the airline will operate three weekly flights between Hanoi and Milan on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays using the state-of-the-art Boeing 787 Dreamliner. This route not only marks a significant milestone for Vietnam Airlines but also strengthens its growing network across Europe. The airline currently operates eight European routes and plans to introduce a Ho Chi Minh City to Milan route after 2025.
Expanding Presence in the European Market
A Network of Strategic Routes
Vietnam Airlines, as the national flag carrier, is the sole airline connecting Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to major European cities. These include Paris, Frankfurt, and London. In October, Munich will become the latest addition to its European destinations, further cementing the airline’s stronghold in the region. With the upcoming Hanoi-Milan service, Vietnam Airlines will solidify its position as a bridge between Vietnam and Europe.
Growing Opportunities in Italy
Italy represents a promising market for Vietnam’s aviation industry. Milan, Italy’s second-largest city, serves as a cultural and fashion capital and an increasingly important travel hub. In 2023, nearly 38,000 passengers traveled from Milan to Vietnam, a 1.4% increase compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019. The first quarter of 2024 saw a 24% rise in passengers from Milan, highlighting Italy’s growing interest in Vietnam as a travel destination.
Strengthening Vietnam-Italy Relations
A Partnership Built on Strong Diplomatic Ties
Vietnam and Italy share a deep diplomatic relationship, established in 1973 and upgraded to a strategic partnership in 2013. Italy is Vietnam’s largest trading partner in ASEAN, while Vietnam ranks as Italy’s fourth-largest trading partner in the EU. The growing air connectivity between the two nations underscores their commitment to fostering economic, cultural, and social ties.
Bilateral Trade and Tourism Growth
Italy’s significance in Vietnam’s aviation sector is evident. In 2023, Vietnam welcomed 81,000 Italian tourists, reaching 89% of pre-COVID levels. The first quarter of 2024 saw a 32% increase in Italian visitors compared to 2019. These figures reflect the strong and growing demand for air travel between the two countries.
Connecting Europe and Vietnam
The nonstop flights between Hanoi and Milan will cater to both Italian travelers and passengers from other European nations. Vietnam Airlines aims to provide greater travel flexibility and convenience while boosting tourism and business exchanges. The new route also emphasizes the airline’s role in fostering connections between Vietnam, Europe, and the world.
Conclusion
The launch of Vietnam Airlines’ nonstop service to Milan marks a significant step in expanding its global footprint. This route not only enhances travel options but also deepens the strategic partnership between Vietnam and Italy. With increasing demand for air travel, Vietnam Airlines is poised to strengthen ties between Southeast Asia and Europe, supporting economic, cultural, and political exchanges.
