Bamboo Airways

Emerging as a vibrant symbol of Vietnamese hospitality, Bamboo Airways has rapidly established itself as a refreshing choice for travelers exploring Southeast Asia. Combining the affordability of budget travel with the comfort of full-service carriers, this airline aims to provide a "more than just a flight" experience inspired by the resilience and grace of the bamboo tree. Since its inaugural flight in 2019, the carrier has focused on connecting major economic centers with tourism hotspots, offering a service style defined by friendliness and high safety standards. With a commitment to quality, Bamboo Airways invites passengers to discover the beauty of Vietnam and beyond with a distinctively personal touch.

Mission and Service Philosophy
Bamboo Airways was founded with a mission to connect potential tourist destinations in Vietnam with major urban areas, often pioneering direct routes that were previously underserved. The airline prides itself on its "Hospitality with a Heart" philosophy, striving to deliver a 5-star oriented service experience. Passengers often appreciate the attentive cabin crew, comfortable seating configurations, and the inclusion of meals or snacks on many flights, distinguishing it from typical low-cost competitors.

Fleet and Network
The airline operates a modern fleet optimized for both efficiency and passenger comfort, primarily consisting of the Airbus A320 and A321 families. These aircraft are well-suited for their extensive domestic network, which includes high-frequency flights between Hanoi and its southern hub in Ho Chi Minh City. Additionally, the carrier provides vital links to popular leisure destinations such as Da Nang, the highland city of Da Lat, and the coastal gem of Qui Nhon.

Safety and Achievements
Safety is the top priority for Bamboo Airways. The airline has successfully secured the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) certification, affirming its adherence to rigorous international safety management standards. Despite being a relatively young player in the aviation industry, the carrier has garnered recognition for its punctuality and service quality, earning titles such as "Asia's Leading Regional Airline" in past travel awards. This commitment to operational excellence ensures that travelers can fly with confidence and peace of mind.

Contact Information

For travelers in the United Arab Emirates, contacting Bamboo Airways is best managed through their international customer service channels and official digital platforms. While the airline concentrates its operations in Vietnam and Southeast Asia, they offer global support for passengers booking from abroad to ensure a smooth travel experience.

For the most up-to-date schedules and to manage your booking directly, visit the Official Website: www.bambooairways.com.

• Official Website: www.bambooairways.com
• International Customer Service: +84 243 233 3233 (Available 24/7; English support provided)
• Email: 19001166@bambooairways.com
• Mobile App: Bamboo Airways (Available for download on iOS and Android)

Social Media

You can also follow the airline for updates and reach out via direct messages on their official social media platforms:

• Facebook: facebook.com/BambooAirwaysFanpage
• Instagram: instagram.com/bamboo.airways
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/bamboo-airways

Local Offices in United Arab Emirates

Currently, Bamboo Airways does not maintain a dedicated local ticket office or walk-in customer service center in the United Arab Emirates. Passengers are advised to use the official website or the mobile app for ticket purchases, check-in, and itinerary changes. For urgent inquiries, please use the international hotline listed above.

24/7 Support

The airline's international hotline (+84 243 233 3233) operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This ensures that travelers in the UAE can receive assistance regardless of the time difference with Vietnam.

Understanding the baggage allowances is a crucial part of planning your trip with Bamboo Airways. The airline offers a tiered baggage policy designed to accommodate different travel needs, from light commuters to international tourists. Policies may vary slightly depending on whether you are flying domestically within Vietnam or on international routes, as well as your specific ticket class.

Carry-on Baggage
All passengers are entitled to carry-on baggage to ensure essential items are close at hand. For Economy Class passengers, the allowance typically includes one main item with a maximum weight of 7kg (15 lbs). Passengers flying in Business Class enjoy a more generous allowance, usually consisting of two items, each weighing up to 7kg. In addition to the main carry-on, passengers may bring one small personal item, such as a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack, provided it fits under the seat in front of you. Ensure that your cabin bag does not exceed standard dimension limits (typically 56cm x 36cm x 23cm) to fit in the overhead compartment.

Checked Baggage
Checked baggage allowances on Bamboo Airways depend heavily on the fare class purchased (e.g., Economy Saver, Economy Smart, Economy Flex, or Business classes).

• Economy Saver: These fares often do not include a complimentary checked baggage allowance or offer a lower weight limit. Passengers can purchase baggage separately if needed.
• Economy Smart/Flex: These tickets generally include a checked baggage allowance, typically starting at 20kg (44 lbs).
• Business Class: Travelers in Business Class benefit from higher limits, usually ranging from 30kg to 40kg, allowing for ample luggage for longer trips.

It is important to check the specific conditions printed on your ticket, as allowances can be based on weight (total weight across multiple bags) or pieces, depending on the route.

Excess Baggage Fees
If your luggage exceeds the free allowance, excess baggage fees will apply. Bamboo Airways recommends purchasing extra baggage weight in advance through their website, mobile app, or authorized agents. Pre-purchasing baggage is significantly more affordable than paying for excess weight at the airport check-in counter. Prepaid baggage can usually be bought in bundles (e.g., 5kg, 10kg, 20kg) up to a certain limit per passenger.

Special Items
The airline accommodates special baggage, such as sports equipment and musical instruments.

• Sports Equipment: Items like golf sets are frequently transported by tourists visiting Vietnam's famous courses. Depending on your fare class and membership status, one set of golf equipment may be transported for free or for a special handling fee. Other equipment like bicycles or surfboards must be registered in advance.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be carried on board if they fit the carry-on dimensions. Larger instruments may require purchasing an extra seat or must be checked as fragile baggage.

Restricted and Prohibited Items
To ensure safety, certain items are restricted.

• Power Banks and Batteries: Loose lithium batteries and power banks must be carried in carry-on luggage only. They are strictly prohibited in checked bags due to fire risks.
• Liquids (International): On international flights, liquids, aerosols, and gels in carry-on bags must be in containers of 100ml or less, placed in a clear, resealable plastic bag.
• Prohibited Goods: Explosives, flammable materials, compressed gases, and sharp objects are forbidden in the cabin. Always verify the latest list of prohibited items on the official website before packing.

Tips for Packing Efficiently
To avoid stress at the airport, weigh your bags at home before departure to ensure they are within the limits. Label all luggage with your name, phone number, and email address both inside and outside. If you plan to buy souvenirs or local products in Vietnam, consider purchasing a fare with a higher baggage allowance or booking extra weight ahead of time to save money.

Pet Travel Policy

Bamboo Airways understands that pets are beloved family members and strives to make their journey as comfortable as possible. The airline permits passengers to transport varying types of pets on both domestic and international flights, provided that specific safety and health regulations are met. Whether you are relocating or taking a holiday, careful planning ensures a smooth experience for you and your furry companion.

Transport Options

In Cabin (Carry-on)
For small pets that can stay with you throughout the flight, the airline offers a cabin transport service. This option is generally available on domestic routes connecting major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

• Carrier Dimensions: The carrier must not exceed 35 cm x 30 cm x 20 cm to fit safely under the seat in front of you.
• Maximum Weight: The total weight of the pet combined with the carrier must not exceed 10 kg.
• Allowed Pet Types: This service is typically limited to dogs and cats.
• Limit per Passenger: One pet carrier per adult passenger is allowed.
• Conditions: The pet must remain inside the carrier at all times during the flight, be odorless, and not disrupt other passengers.

In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)
Larger pets that exceed the weight or size limits for the cabin can travel in the pressurized and temperature-controlled cargo hold as checked baggage. This is also the standard method for transporting birds.

• Container Requirements: Pets must be housed in an IATA-compliant crate made of rigid plastic or fiberglass. The crate must have proper ventilation on at least three sides and a secure locking mechanism.
• Size Limits: The container must be large enough for the animal to stand, turn around, and lie down naturally.
• Weight Limits: Generally, the total weight (pet + crate) should not exceed 32 kg. Heavier items may need to be processed as cargo.
• Temperature: Transport may be refused if extreme temperatures (very hot or very cold) at departure or arrival airports pose a risk to the animal's health.

As Cargo
For very large animals, unaccompanied pets, or flights to destinations with strict import regulations, travel via the cargo terminal is required.

• When Required: Necessary for animals exceeding checked baggage weight limits or for species not allowed in the passenger terminal.
• Special Requirements: Requires separate booking through the Bamboo Airways Cargo division.
• Booking Procedure: Arrangements must be made well in advance, typically at least 24-48 hours before departure.

Required Documentation

To ensure your pet is accepted for travel, you must provide the following documents at check-in:

• Veterinary Passport: An official record identifying the pet.
• Health Certificate: A valid health certificate issued by a veterinarian, typically dated within 24 hours to 7 days before departure (depending on the route).
• Vaccination Records: Proof of valid rabies vaccination and other required shots (distemper, etc.).
• International Certificates: For international travel, quarantine permits and import/export licenses required by the destination country (e.g., UAE regulations for entry).

Service Costs

Fees for pet travel are charged separately from passenger baggage allowances.

• In-Cabin Fee: Varies by route, typically starting from a set base rate for domestic sectors.
• Cargo Hold Fee: Calculated based on the total weight of the pet and crate.
• Note: Prices are higher for international routes and longer distances, such as flights to Da Nang or Qui Nhon.

Preparation Tips

• Acclimatization: Let your pet get used to the carrier or crate several days before the flight to reduce anxiety.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal 4-6 hours before departure; avoid feeding right before the flight to prevent airsickness.
• Hydration: Ensure the pet is hydrated, and equip the crate with a spill-proof water container if traveling in the hold.
• Comfort: Place an absorbent mat and a familiar item, like a small toy or blanket, inside the crate to reduce stress.

Restrictions

• Prohibited Breeds: Brachycephalic (snub-nosed) dog and cat breeds (e.g., Pugs, Bulldogs, Persian cats) are often restricted or prohibited in the cargo hold due to respiratory risks.
• Prohibited Animals: Endangered species, pregnant animals, and pets under 10 weeks old are generally not accepted.
• Exceptions: Service animals assisting passengers with disabilities may travel free of charge in the cabin, subject to specific documentation.

Important: Airline policies regarding pet travel can change. We strongly recommend contacting Bamboo Airways directly or visiting their official website before booking your ticket to verify current fees, breed restrictions, and specific entry requirements for your destination.

Loyalty Program

Bamboo Club is the official loyalty program of Bamboo Airways, designed to enhance the travel experience for frequent flyers. By joining this program, passengers can earn points on every flight and enjoy exclusive privileges ranging from priority services to special partner deals. It is an essential tool for anyone planning regular travel within Vietnam or internationally with the airline.

Membership Tiers

The program consists of four distinct membership levels, each offering increasing benefits as you accumulate qualifying points or flight segments:

• Emerald: The entry-level tier offering immediate membership benefits upon registration.
• Gold: Provides priority check-in at business counters and priority seat selection.
• Diamond: Includes complimentary access to Business Class Lounges and priority baggage handling.
• First: The most exclusive tier offering VIP services, dedicated support, and the highest bonus point accrual rates.

Earning Points

Members can accumulate bonus points through various activities, making it easy to grow their balance:

• Flights: Earn points on eligible routes, such as trips between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
• Bank Partners: Convert points from co-branded credit cards or banking partners into Bamboo Club points.
• Lifestyle Partners: Accumulate points through bookings with partner hotels, resorts, and telecommunication services.
• Shopping: Earn additional points when purchasing products from the airline's affiliated retail partners.

Redeeming Points

Accumulated points can be exchanged for a variety of valuable travel rewards:

• Award Flights: Redeem points for free tickets to destinations like Da Nang or Qui Nhon.
• Seat Upgrades: Use points to upgrade your seat from Economy to Business Class for added comfort.
• Extra Baggage: Pay for excess luggage allowances using points instead of cash.
• Lounge Access: Redeem points for entry into the airline's premium airport lounges before your flight.

Alliance Membership

Bamboo Airways is not currently a member of the three major global airline alliances (Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or oneworld). However, the airline operates with a strategy of independent growth and establishes specific interline or codeshare partnerships to extend its network reach for passengers.

How to Join

Becoming a member of Bamboo Club is simple and free of charge. Travelers can register directly through the official Bamboo Airways website or by downloading the mobile app. Instant registration allows you to start earning points immediately on your very first booking.

Services and Comfort

Flying with Bamboo Airways is designed to be an experience of Vietnamese hospitality rather than just a commute. As a full-service carrier, the airline distinguishes itself by offering a blend of comfort, convenience, and cultural charm. Whether you are traveling on a short hop between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City or embarking on a regional journey, the airline strives to ensure every passenger feels welcomed and relaxed.

Service Classes

Bamboo Airways carefully tailors its cabin offerings to cater to diverse travel needs, prioritizing comfort across its modern fleet.

Economy Class
Far from a basic "no-frills" experience, Economy Class on this airline is generous and accommodating. Passengers enjoy elegant leather seats with ample legroom, typically ranging from 30 to 32 inches. On the carrier's fleet of Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft, the layout follows a standard 3-3 configuration. Unlike many budget competitors, Economy tickets often include a complimentary meal or snack and a beverage, ensuring you don't go hungry during your flight to destinations like Da Nang.

Business Class
For those seeking extra comfort and priority, Business Class offers a premium experience. Seats are arranged in a spacious 2-2 configuration, featuring wide, comfortable recliners with generous pitch and footrests, allowing for significant relaxation. Passengers in this class enjoy priority check-in, exclusive lounge access at select airports, and an increased baggage allowance. The cabin environment is quieter and more personalized, perfect for business travelers or those heading to a relaxing resort in Qui Nhon.

In-flight Dining

One of the highlights of flying with Bamboo Airways is the culinary experience. The airline takes pride in promoting Vietnamese cuisine at 30,000 feet. Even in Economy Class, passengers are often served hot meals, fresh sandwiches, or seasonal fruits, depending on the flight duration. The menu frequently features local favorites such as Pho, sticky rice, and refreshing herbal teas, alongside international options. Business Class passengers enjoy a gourmet dining service with multi-course meals served on proper chinaware, elevating the inflight atmosphere.

Entertainment and Connectivity

To keep passengers entertained, the airline offers Bamboo Sky, a wireless in-flight entertainment system. Travelers can connect their own devices—smartphones, tablets, or laptops—to the onboard network to stream a library of movies, music, TV shows, and games. Since the narrow-body fleet is not equipped with seatback screens, it is highly recommended to bring your personal headphones and fully charge your devices before boarding, especially for flights to the highland city of Da Lat.

Special Services

Bamboo Airways is committed to making travel accessible and convenient for everyone through its "Bamboo Cares" program.

• Families and Children: The airline provides special assistance for families traveling with infants and young children. Special children's meals can be ordered in advance to keep little ones happy during the flight.
• Passengers with Disabilities: Comprehensive support is available for passengers with reduced mobility. This includes wheelchair assistance from the check-in counter to the aircraft seat. Passengers requiring special assistance should notify the airline at least 24 hours before departure to ensure proper arrangements are made.
• Unaccompanied Minors: A dedicated service is available for children traveling alone, ensuring they are supervised and cared for from the moment of handover at the departure airport until they are safely met by their guardian at the destination.

Top Destinations

Bamboo Airways operates a robust domestic network, connecting Vietnam's key economic and tourism hubs with a focus on convenience and service quality. With its primary base in Ho Chi Minh City, the airline ensures seamless travel to major cities and popular resorts across the country, offering high-frequency flights on its most in-demand routes.

Booking a flight with Bamboo Airways is the first step toward a comfortable journey across Vietnam. To secure the best fares, it is generally advisable to book your tickets at least three to four weeks in advance for domestic travel. This is especially important for high-demand routes, such as the busy corridor between Hanoi and the economic hub of Ho Chi Minh City. For peak holiday seasons, planning even further ahead can help you avoid price surges and ensure seat availability.

To catch the best deals and promotions, consider subscribing to the airline's newsletter or following their official social media channels. Bamboo Airways frequently releases special offers for various destinations. Flexibility with your travel dates can also reveal lower prices, particularly for flights to popular tourist spots like the coastal city of Da Nang or the misty highlands of Da Lat. Checking fares mid-week often yields better results than booking on weekends.

Streamline your airport experience by taking advantage of online check-in. This service typically opens 24 hours before departure and allows you to select your seat and receive a mobile boarding pass. This is a great way to skip the long queues at the counter, giving you more time to relax before your flight to Qui Nhon or other beautiful locations. If you have specific preferences, such as extra legroom or a window view, selecting your seat during the online check-in process is highly recommended.

For a seamless travel experience, downloading the Bamboo Airways mobile app is a helpful tip. The app allows you to manage your booking on the go, receive real-time flight updates, and easily access your itinerary. Additionally, while Bamboo Airways focuses on quality service, purchasing travel insurance is always a prudent decision. It provides a safety net for unexpected changes to your plans, lost luggage, or medical emergencies, ensuring you can travel with complete peace of mind.

History and Development

Bamboo Airways was founded in 2017, emerging as a bold newcomer in the Vietnamese aviation market with a vision to redefine air travel. Established by the FLC Group, a major multi-industrial conglomerate, the airline was created to connect under-served tourist destinations directly with domestic and international hubs. From its inception, the carrier aimed to operate under a unique "hybrid" model, blending the affordable pricing structure of low-cost carriers with the premium amenities typical of traditional full-service airlines. After receiving its aviation license, the airline officially took to the skies with its inaugural commercial flight in January 2019, marking the beginning of a new era for travelers in Vietnam.

Rapid Expansion and Fleet Evolution
In its early years, the airline demonstrated an aggressive growth strategy. Starting with a modest fleet of narrow-body aircraft, it quickly expanded its network to cover essential domestic routes, heavily promoting tourism to coastal cities like Qui Nhon. A significant milestone in the airline's history was the introduction of the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner into its fleet. This acquisition made Bamboo Airways the first private carrier in Vietnam to operate wide-body aircraft, signaling its ambition to compete on a global scale. This fleet evolution enabled the launch of long-haul non-stop flights to major international markets, including destinations in Europe and Australia, broadening the connectivity for Vietnamese passengers.

Strategic Restructuring
While the airline initially pursued rapid international expansion, the post-pandemic landscape and changing market conditions necessitated a strategic shift. In late 2023 and continuing into 2024, the carrier undertook a comprehensive restructuring process to ensure sustainable long-term growth. As part of this reorganization, the airline streamlined its fleet by phasing out its wide-body aircraft to focus exclusively on a standardized, efficient fleet of Airbus A320 and A321 planes. This move allowed the carrier to optimize its resources and concentrate on high-demand domestic and regional sectors, particularly the vital economic corridor between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Modern Developments and Innovations
Today, Bamboo Airways is defined by its resilience and commitment to service quality. Despite the industry's challenges, the airline has consistently maintained one of the highest On-Time Performance (OTP) rates in the Vietnamese aviation sector. Modern developments have focused on digital transformation, upgrading mobile app functionalities, and enhancing the passenger experience through its "Bamboo Club" loyalty ecosystem. The carrier continues to strengthen its position by offering frequent connections to popular leisure spots such as Da Nang and Da Lat, reaffirming its core mission of promoting tourism and providing distinctively warm Vietnamese hospitality.