Vietravel Airlines

Vietravel Airlines distinguishes itself as Vietnam's first travel airline, launched with a vision to seamlessly connect transport with immersive tourism experiences. Born from the legacy of a leading travel holding company, the carrier took to the skies in early 2021, aiming to serve as a cultural ambassador that introduces passengers to the heritage and beauty of Vietnam right from the boarding gate. With a youthful spirit and a customer-centric approach, the airline focuses on linking major cities and leisure destinations, offering a unique blend of aviation and hospitality.

Features and Advantages

Vietravel Airlines operates with a clear mission to promote tourism and facilitate discovery. One of its primary advantages is its strategic network, which links the bustling city of Hanoi with the coastal beauty of Da Nang. From its primary hub in Ho Chi Minh City, the carrier offers convenient connections to the island paradise of Phu Quoc. The airline also serves international travelers with routes to vibrant capitals like Bangkok, creating a convenient bridge between Southeast Asian neighbors.

The carrier utilizes a modern fleet of Airbus A321 aircraft, selected for their reliability, fuel efficiency, and passenger comfort on short to medium-haul flights. This choice reflects the company's commitment to operational excellence and safety. Passengers can expect a service style that goes beyond standard transportation, often incorporating elements of storytelling and local culture, delivered by a cabin crew trained to be travel guides in the sky.

Despite being a relatively young entrant in the market, the airline has quickly garnered attention for its specialized approach. It has been recognized for its efforts in revitalizing tourism and providing affordable yet quality travel options to emerging destinations like Qui Nhon. With a focus on punctuality and a "touring airline" philosophy, it creates a comprehensive travel ecosystem for explorers.

For travelers in the United Arab Emirates, contacting Vietravel Airlines primarily involves using international communication channels, as the airline does not currently maintain a physical local office in the region. The most effective way to manage bookings, check flight status, or seek assistance is through their digital platforms or by contacting their global support center in Vietnam.

Official Website

www.vietravelairlines.com

Contact Information

• Official Website: www.vietravelairlines.com
• Customer Service (International): +84 1900 6686 (Please note that international calling rates from the UAE may apply)
• Email: customercare@vietravelairlines.vn
• Mobile App: Vietravel Airlines (Available for download on iOS and Android platforms)

Social Media

Travelers can also follow the airline for updates or reach out via messaging on their official social media profiles:

• Facebook: Vietravel Airlines
• Instagram: @vietravel.airlines
• TikTok: @vietravel.airlines
• YouTube: Vietravel Airlines

Local Offices in United Arab Emirates

Currently, there are no representative offices or dedicated ticket counters for Vietravel Airlines within the United Arab Emirates. Passengers requiring in-person assistance should consult the airline's website for online support or contact the headquarters directly.

Customer Support Availability

The airline's hotline is available to support passengers with inquiries regarding reservations and flight changes. As there is no local 24/7 toll-free number for the UAE, it is recommended to use the email service for non-urgent matters or call the international hotline for immediate assistance.

Carry-on Baggage Allowance

Vietravel Airlines allows passengers to bring essential items on board to ensure a comfortable journey. The standard carry-on allowance depends on the ticket class purchased:

• Economy Class: Passengers are generally entitled to 1 piece of carry-on baggage with a maximum weight of 7 kg (15 lbs).
• Premium/Optimal Fares: Some higher-tier fares may allow for a generous limit of up to 12 kg (26 lbs), subject to specific ticket conditions.

For all cabin classes, the maximum dimensions for carry-on luggage must not exceed 56 cm x 36 cm x 23 cm. In addition to the main carry-on bag, passengers may typically bring a small personal item, such as a handbag, laptop bag, or camera bag, provided it fits under the seat in front of you.

Checked Baggage Policy

Vietravel Airlines has transitioned to a piece-concept policy for checked baggage to streamline the travel experience. Baggage allowances are often not included in the cheapest "Economy Saver" fares and must be purchased separately or as part of a bundled fare.

• Standard Allowance: A standard purchased baggage block typically consists of 1 piece weighing up to 23 kg.
• Maximum Weight: For safety reasons, a single piece of checked baggage must not exceed 32 kg. If your bag exceeds this weight, you will be required to repack it into separate bags.
• Dimensions: The total dimensions (Length + Width + Height) of any checked bag should not exceed 158 cm.

Travelers can pre-purchase baggage packages in increments (e.g., 23 kg per piece) via the airline's website or agents up to 3 or 4 hours before departure. Purchasing baggage at the airport usually incurs a significantly higher fee.

Excess and Special Baggage

If you plan to travel with more luggage than your allowance permits, excess baggage fees will apply. These are charged per piece or per kilogram depending on the route and are best settled in advance.

Sports Equipment and Special Items:

• Golf Sets: The airline offers special handling for golf equipment. A standard set (including clubs, balls, and shoes) up to 23 kg can often be transported for a specific fee.
• Bicycles and Surfboards: Large sports items like bicycles and surfboards are accepted but are considered oversized baggage. Bicycles must be properly packed with handlebars turned and tires deflated. A handling fee applies to these items.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be carried on board if they fit within the cabin baggage dimensions. Larger instruments must be checked in as special baggage or require the purchase of an extra seat for cabin transport.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

To ensure flight safety, strict regulations apply to what you can carry:

• Lithium Batteries & Power Banks: Loose lithium batteries and power banks are strictly prohibited in checked baggage. They must be carried in your hand luggage.
• Liquids (International Flights): For international routes, such as those connecting to Bangkok, liquids in carry-on bags must be in containers of 100 ml or less, placed in a single transparent, resealable plastic bag with a total volume of no more than 1 liter.
• Prohibited Items: Explosives, flammable substances, sharp objects (knives, scissors), and weapons are not allowed in the cabin.
• Smelly Items: Strong-smelling products like durian, jackfruit, and fish sauce are generally prohibited in the cabin and may be refused in checked baggage unless packed in sealed, smell-proof containers according to specific airline guidelines.

Tips for Efficient Packing

To make your journey with Vietravel Airlines smoother, consider these packing tips:

• Weigh Before You Go: Use a portable luggage scale to ensure your bags are within the 7 kg (carry-on) or 23 kg (checked) limits to avoid unexpected fees at the airport.
• Secure Valuables: Always keep travel documents, money, jewelry, and electronic devices in your carry-on bag. Never put fragile or valuable items in checked luggage.
• Label Your Bags: Attach a durable luggage tag with your name, phone number, and email address to all checked bags. Removing old barcode tags from previous trips helps prevent routing errors.
• Pre-book Allowances: If you suspect you might go over the limit, purchase extra baggage allowance online before your flight. It is much cheaper than paying at the check-in counter.

Traveling with animals requires careful attention to airline regulations, as policies can vary significantly between carriers. Vietravel Airlines generally maintains a strict policy regarding the transport of live animals. Unlike some full-service carriers, the airline typically does not accept household pets, such as dogs, cats, or birds, for transport either in the passenger cabin or as checked baggage on its commercial flights. This policy applies to all standard domestic routes, including flights between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, as well as international connections.

Guide Dogs for Visually Impaired Passengers

The primary exception to the airline's no-pet policy is specifically for **Guide Dogs** accompanying passengers with visual impairments. Vietravel Airlines recognizes the essential role these specially trained animals play and strives to facilitate a smooth journey for passengers who rely on them. These guide dogs are transported free of charge, distinct from standard baggage allowances, provided they meet strict identification and health conditions. Passengers should note that this exception generally does not extend to emotional support animals or other types of service pets without specific accreditation for visual assistance.

Requirements for Assistance Animals

To travel with a guide dog on flights to destinations like Da Nang or Phu Quoc, passengers must prepare the necessary documentation and strictly follow the airline's notification procedures.

• Advance Notification: Passengers must inform Vietravel Airlines of their intent to travel with a guide dog at least 5 days before the scheduled departure. This allows the airline sufficient time to make the necessary arrangements for the animal's acceptance.
• Identification and Accreditation: You must provide valid identification or an accreditation certificate for the guide dog from a recognized training organization. The animal must be trained to obey commands and behave appropriately in public settings.
• Health Documentation: A valid veterinary health certificate and vaccination records (including rabies) are required. For international flights, such as those to Bangkok, additional quarantine permits or import licenses may be necessary depending on the destination country's regulations.

Onboard Guidelines

For the safety and comfort of all passengers on board, specific rules apply to guide dogs during the flight:

• Restraints: Guide dogs must be harnessed or leashed at all times. In many cases, the airline requires the dog to wear a muzzle during the flight to comply with safety protocols.
• Seating: The animal must sit on the floor at the passenger's feet. Guide dogs are not permitted to occupy a passenger seat.
• Behavior: The owner is responsible for the animal's hygiene and behavior. The dog must not obstruct aisles or emergency exits.

Important Recommendation: Since policies regarding assistance animals can be subject to operational changes, it is strongly advised to contact Vietravel Airlines' customer support or visit their official offices well before booking your trip to Qui Nhon or any other destination. Verifying the latest requirements ensures a hassle-free check-in experience.

Loyalty Program Overview

Vietravel Airlines rewards its frequent flyers through VietravelPlus, a comprehensive loyalty program integrated with its parent company, Vietravel Holdings. This unified system allows travelers to earn recognition and benefits not just from flying, but also from booking tours and using travel services across their extensive ecosystem. Designed to enhance the travel experience, the program offers a seamless way to accumulate value whether you are taking a quick domestic trip or an international vacation.

Membership Tiers and Benefits

The VietravelPlus program is structured into several distinct tiers, with each level unlocking progressively valuable privileges for members:

• Member: The entry-level status granted immediately upon registration, allowing members to start accumulating points on all eligible transactions.
• Silver: Offers increased earning rates and priority assistance when booking services through the airline's network.
• Gold: Provides significant travel perks such as priority check-in counters at airports like Ho Chi Minh City.
• Platinum: Grants access to business class lounges, priority boarding, and additional baggage allowances.

Earning Points and Stars

Members can accumulate value in two ways: "Points" for redemption and "Stars" for tier qualification, making every interaction count:

• Flight Activity: Earn points based on the fare value of tickets purchased for routes such as Hanoi to Da Nang.
• Travel Packages: Accumulate credit when booking holiday tours and hotel stays through Vietravel's extensive agency network.
• Partner Network: Earn rewards through transactions with affiliated dining, shopping, and lifestyle partners.
• Spending Thresholds: Tier qualification (Stars) is generally calculated based on every 100,000 VND spent on eligible services.

Redeeming Rewards

The points accumulated in your VietravelPlus account can be exchanged for a variety of practical travel benefits:

• Ticket Discounts: Use points to directly reduce the cost of future flight bookings to destinations like Phu Quoc.
• Tour Vouchers: Redeem points for discounts on travel packages and excursions offered by the parent company.
• Partner Offers: Exchange points for dining vouchers and shopping discounts within the "Win Together" partner ecosystem.
• Upgrade Awards: Use accumulated value to access better seat options or additional service bundles on select flights.

Alliance and Partner Ecosystem

Vietravel Airlines operates independently and is not currently a member of major global alliances like Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or oneworld.

• Win Together: Instead of a traditional airline alliance, it utilizes a proprietary partner network connecting tourism, transport, and lifestyle brands.
• Interline Partners: The airline collaborates with select regional carriers to facilitate travel to international hubs like Bangkok.

How to Join

Becoming a member of VietravelPlus is straightforward and free of charge for all travelers:

• Online Registration: Sign up instantly via the official Vietravel Airlines website or the VietravelPlus portal.
• Mobile App: Download the Vietravel app to register, track your points, and access digital membership cards on the go.
• Automatic Enrollment: Accounts are often automatically created when you book a tour or flight, with activation details sent via SMS or email.

Cabin Classes and Seating

Vietravel Airlines operates primarily as a leisure-focused hybrid carrier, utilizing a modern fleet of Airbus A321 aircraft. The airline currently offers a single-class Economy configuration tailored to provide a comfortable and efficient journey. While there are no separate Business or First Class cabins, the airline structures its service around flexible fare tiers. Passengers can choose from various ticket types—ranging from budget-friendly non-refundable options to flexible fares that include priority check-in and increased baggage allowances.

The cabin features a standard 3-3 seat configuration with soft leather upholstery, designed to maximize personal space on short and medium-haul flights. For travelers seeking extra comfort, the airline offers the option to select priority seats located in the front rows or emergency exit rows. These seats provide significantly more legroom and allow for quicker disembarkation upon arrival in destinations like Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi.

In-Flight Dining

True to its mission of connecting travelers with culture, Vietravel Airlines takes pride in its culinary offerings. The airline introduces passengers to the "Taste of Vietnam" through a curated menu of local specialties. While a light snack and bottle of water may be included with certain premium fare bundles, a wide selection of hot meals, savory snacks, and beverages is available for purchase on board.

Travelers can look forward to iconic dishes such as Banh Mi (Vietnamese baguette), sticky rice with savory toppings, and signature Vietnamese iced coffee. On longer international routes, such as flights to Bangkok, the menu helps set the mood for a Southeast Asian adventure before you even land.

Entertainment and Amenities

Vietravel Airlines identifies as a "touring airline," and its in-flight entertainment focuses on storytelling and travel inspiration. Instead of seatback screens, the airline provides a high-quality in-flight magazine that serves as a comprehensive travel guide, offering tips and cultural insights about destinations like Da Nang and Phu Quoc. The cabin crew is also trained to share information about local attractions, acting as aerial tour guides.

Special Services

The airline is committed to making air travel accessible to everyone. Special assistance is available for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair services which can be requested at the time of booking or at least 24 hours before departure. Families traveling with infants are provided with priority boarding to ensure a stress-free settling-in process.

For parents whose children need to travel alone, an Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service is available for children aged 6 to under 12 years old. This service ensures that young travelers are supervised by airline staff from check-in at Qui Nhon or other airports until they are handed over to their designated guardian at the destination.

Vietravel Airlines operates a focused network that primarily connects Vietnam's most popular tourism hubs and major economic centers. Centered around its hub in Ho Chi Minh City, the carrier facilitates convenient travel between key domestic cities like Hanoi and Da Nang, while also linking Vietnam to Thailand's vibrant capital.

Securing your flight with Vietravel Airlines is a straightforward process designed to get you ready for your adventure in Vietnam and beyond. To find the most competitive fares, it is generally recommended to book your tickets at least 3 to 4 weeks in advance. Prices can fluctuate significantly during peak travel seasons, such as the Tet holiday or summer vacation months, especially for popular routes connecting the airline's hub in Ho Chi Minh City to major destinations like Hanoi. Keeping an eye on the airline's official website for early-bird specials is a smart strategy for budget-conscious travelers.

For those looking to maximize savings, signing up for the airline's newsletter or following their social media channels can provide access to exclusive deals and promotions. Flash sales are occasionally offered for beach destinations, so if you are planning a getaway to Da Nang or the island paradise of Phu Quoc, being flexible with your travel dates can lead to significant discounts. utilizing the Vietravel Airlines mobile app is also highly encouraged; it not only helps you track fare changes but also serves as a convenient travel companion for managing your itinerary on the go.

To ensure a smooth journey through the airport, take advantage of the online check-in service. This feature typically opens 24 hours before your scheduled departure and allows you to bypass long queues at the counters. During this process, or at the time of booking, you can also explore seat selection options. whether you prefer a window seat to admire the views of Qui Nhon upon approach or an aisle seat for quicker access, choosing your spot in advance ensures greater comfort onboard.

Finally, adding travel insurance to your booking is a recommended precaution for any trip. This provides peace of mind regarding flight cancellations, lost luggage, or unexpected medical needs. Combined with a digital boarding pass stored on your mobile device, these preparations ensure that your experience with Vietravel Airlines is as relaxing and enjoyable as the destination itself.

Founding and Vision

The story of Vietravel Airlines is unique in the Vietnamese aviation market, as it was born not purely as a transport carrier but as an extension of a tourism giant. Established in 2019 by Vietravel, Vietnam’s leading tour operator, the airline was conceived with a specific mission: to complete the travel ecosystem by owning the transportation link in the tourism chain. The company aimed to be the country's first "touring airline," focusing on connecting key tourist destinations and providing a cultural experience from the moment passengers step on board. After a rigorous preparation period involving licensing and fleet acquisition, the airline received its Aircraft Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam in late 2020.

Launch Amidst Challenges

Vietravel Airlines took to the skies for its first commercial flight in January 2021, a time when the global aviation industry was facing unprecedented challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite these headwinds, the carrier successfully launched its operations, initially focusing on the domestic market to serve local travel demand. Its debut flight connected the hub of Ho Chi Minh City with Hanoi, marking the beginning of a network designed to link the country's two largest economic and cultural centers. The airline's resilience during its early years demonstrated a strong commitment to revitalizing Vietnam's tourism industry.

Fleet Evolution

From the outset, the airline adopted a strategy of operating a unified and efficient fleet. It launched with the Airbus A321ceo, a narrow-body aircraft renowned for its reliability and passenger capacity in the medium-haul segment. This choice allowed the carrier to offer a comfortable single-class configuration suitable for both business and leisure travelers. Over time, the airline has maintained a focused fleet strategy, optimizing its aircraft utilization to support high-frequency routes between major cities and popular vacation spots like Da Nang and Phu Quoc.

Network Expansion and Milestones

Following its stabilization in the domestic market, Vietravel Airlines began to expand its horizons. A significant milestone was achieved when it successfully inaugurated international operations, connecting Vietnam with major regional hubs. The launch of the route to Bangkok was a key step in its international strategy, catering to the high demand for travel between Vietnam and Thailand. Domestically, the airline continued to strengthen its presence by adding emerging tourist destinations such as Qui Nhon to its network, fulfilling its promise to make diverse Vietnamese landscapes more accessible.

Modern Developments

Today, Vietravel Airlines continues to innovate by integrating digital solutions and enhancing its in-flight services to reflect local culture. It stands out by offering passengers a distinctive blend of aviation and tourism storytelling, often featuring local guides and regional cuisine on board. As a young and dynamic player, the airline focuses on sustainable growth, aiming to expand its fleet and route network further to connect Vietnam with more international markets in Northeast and Southeast Asia.