History

Vietnam’s leading low cost carrier has grown rapidly from its first domestic flight between Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi on Christmas Day 2011. Seven years later the airline has grown to serve 17 domestic airports and operates to more than 30 regional destinations. Originally the airline planned to operate as an AirAsia franchise but regulatory delays caused AirAsia to cancel the deal. Under the stewardship of Vietnam’s first female billionaire, Nguyễn Thị Phương Thảo, Hanoi based VietJet Air has gone from success to success. The airline’s rapid growth has resulted in it requiring 60+ jets with 150+ more on order. In 2014 in partnership with Thai entrepreneur Somphong Sooksanguan, the airline became a 49% owner in a Bangkok based domestic carrier Thai VietJet. In 2017 VietJet Air successfully listed on the Ho Chi Minh City stock exchange to become Vietnam’s first publicly owned airline.

On-Board Service

Compared to American, European and Australian low cost carriers, VietJet Air is far superior. Staff are pleasant, formal and attentive.

Network

As the airline exclusively uses single aisle Airbus and Boeing twin engine jets, their flying range is around three hours from Vietnam. As a result the airline has a comprehensive regional network connecting Vietnam to its neighbours but no long distance flights. Their domestic network is comprehensive. The airline has hubs in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Bangkok.

Price

VietJet Air is cheap, especially if you can book ahead. The airline represents excellent value for money.

Catering

Like most low cost carriers, VietJet Air sells food and drinks on board, but unlike most other discount airlines, this airline’s choice is surprisingly vast and surprisingly delicious.

Entertainment

The only entertainment is the airline’s One 2 Fly inflight magazine, which is a mix of advertising and promotional articles about tourist destinations.

Ground Service and baggage

Check in and baggage services are efficient but the boarding can be haphazard. Priority boarding is sometimes forgotten and the frequently delayed flights can go unannounced, leaving passengers wondering where their flights are.

Premium Classes & Lounges

The airline has no Business Class but has a type of Premium Economy called SkyBoss. SkyBoss passengers can access a lounge (good idea when flights are delayed), receive an extra 10kg in baggage, and their catering is included in the price. For the small amount SkyBoss costs, its money well spent.

Economy Class

For a low cost carrier their Economy Class is quite good, however expect to pay for catering.

Frequent Flyer Programme

Like most discount airlines VietJet Air has no frequent flyer programme, nor intends to offer one.

Corporate Culture

The airline’s President and CEO Nguyễn Thị Phương Thảo seems aware that her airline is judged on its employees and safety record, so she has prioritised both. VietJet Air has been voted “Vietnam’s best place to work” and “Best Employer Brand Asia Awards 2016”. Happy staff means happy customers.

Safety

VietJet Air has a brand new fleet with the average age of airline 3.3 years old in 2018. To date the airline has a near spotless safety record.

VietJet Air- Rating

In 2016 VietJet Air won an award as Best Asian Low Cost Carrier. It is.

www.vietjetair.com