History

Vietnam Airlines is a state owned enterprise headquartered in Vietnam’s capital Hanoi operating a comprehensive domestic and international network hubbing from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). In 1996 the airline was created when numerous aviation assets were merged into a single enterprise although its origins can be traced to the Vietnam Civil Aviation company which dates back to 1956. Air Vietnam was the flag carrier of South Vietnam while Vietnam Civil Aviation represented the North. As communist run Vietnam opened up in the 1990’s the airline replaced aging Soviet built aircraft with Boeings and Airbus’s and throughout the last decade the airline has rapidly modernized and improved. In 2005 the airline adopted a distinctive new logo incorporating the lotus flower and greatly improved aircraft interiors. In 2010 the airline joined SkyTeam and in 2012 the airline will partially privatize. Vietnam Airlines has 40% market share for international flights and 80% of the domestic market. Passengers are primarily tourists and ex-patriot Vietnamese who fled following the Fall of Saigon in 1975.

On-Board Service

Vietnam Airlines flight attendants are predominantly women who are beautifully attired in a traditional Vietnamese dress and look extremely elegant. Many crew both domestically and internationally do not speak foreign languages but are skilled at anticipating passengers wants. Service is warm, friendly and formal with crew being very attentive and always smiling politely.

Network

Vietnam Airlines has an extremely comprehensive domestic network linking Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City-Saigon to practically every destination in the country. Most international flights are based in Ho Chi Minh-Saigon. The airline’s international growth has been surprisingly careful and they concentrate on proven tourist routes. The airlines network to China, South Korea and Japan is comprehensive while other locations are covered less well. Oddly enough the airline does not fly to America but has plans to when more aircraft join the fleet.

Price

Domestic flights in Vietnam are beyond the budgets for most locals but tourists will find them standard. Vietnam does have an import tax on aviation fuel which is applied to domestic flights which adds to the price. Internationally Vietnam Airlines prices are very favourable, especially when the superiority of service is taken into account and the airlines extremely generous baggage allowances. The distinctive flavour of Vietnam that passengers experience during a flight means holiday makers truly begin their journey when they step on board, unlike other airlines. Vietnam Airlines is definitely good value.

Catering

Passengers used to no-frill no-catering flights will enjoy Vietnam Airlines as all flights, even short domestic routes, are fully catered for free. On domestic flights catering can range from tea/coffee and muffin on very short flights to a full hot meal on longer evening flights. Internationally the airline is very generous with meal sizes large, tasty and served with plenty of alcohol. Unsurprisingly, meals have an Asian theme on all flights. Thanks to the French occupation of Vietnam, they know how to make a crusty bread roll, unlike almost every other Asian carrier.

Entertainment

Larger aircraft have state of the art video-on-demand individual seat back entertainment units which show current Hollywood movies together with subtitled Vietnamese films. Audio channels come in a variety of languages. Smaller aircraft, including their turbo prop domestic services do not have video or audio. The airlines ‘Heritage’ in-flight magazine is an interesting read with a selection of tourism and historical articles mostly about Vietnam.

Ground Service and baggage

Vietnam Airlines flights can take a long time to check in as ex-pat Vietnamese generally all seem to take their maximum baggage allowance and more for every flight as gift giving is an essential custom. Outside Vietnam check-in is done by contractors who often show their frustration at the slow check-in process. Bargaining over the price of excess baggage can be done with management who probably pocket the money. The airline can be expected to give you at least 10kg more than your ticketed baggage allowance so don’t resist buying souvenirs.

Premium Classes & Lounges

Vietnam Airlines has been rapidly improving over the years and this is no more visible than in their premium services. The airline has three classes. Business, Deluxe Economy and Economy. Deluxe Economy is comparable to Business Class on airlines like Jetstar, Delta or AirAsiaX. Business Class is relaxingly appointed but even on their longest routes they do not have lie flat beds. The airlines meal service is excellent, served on attractive cutlery and fine linen. The airlines Golden Lotus Lounges have an international rather than Vietnamese feel and are generally quiet and casual. Outside Vietnam the airline uses partner lounges and does not operate its own. Last minute upgrades can be negotiated at the check-in counters with managers.

Economy Class

An Economy Class experience is very good. For larger build passengers on longer flights taking advantage of Deluxe Economy is a good idea. Flights are pleasant, interiors are modern and service is good. Together with the generous baggage allowance, Vietnam Airlines is definitely superior to any discount carrier and most competitors. At peak times, flights can be crowded.

Frequent Flyer Programme

Vietnam Airlines is part of SkyTeam so a membership of any of their frequent flyer programmes will earn points. The airline has its own Golden Lotus loyalty programme which has not been developed very extensively and even staff do not seem to fully appreciate the possibilities of the scheme. Unless you plan frequent trips to Vietnam there is little point in joining. There are definitely better SkyTeam programmes to join, such as Korean Air or Delta’s.

Corporate Culture

Vietnam Airlines is overseen by the government in a very hands on way that most Westerners would find hard to believe. The government is very protective of its investment in the airline and will not allow it to be pushed into unprofitability by no-frill competitors as is happening in Malaysia, Thailand and elsewhere. Paying commissions is a normal part of the business process in Vietnam and this extends to the airline as well. Managers and middle management are typically friendly and respectful and good to work with. When dealing with Vietnam Airlines it is important to remember things are done the Vietnamese way, which many Westerners may feel uncomfortable with. Vietnam Airlines is not a ruthless company but has a win-win mentality. Every transaction should make everyone a winner.

Safety

Vietnam Airlines has a good safety record and has had only two fatal accidents in its history, both with old Soviet era aircraft, last century. The airlines modern fleet is well maintained and Vietnam Airlines has partnered with several international maintenance companies to improve its performance. Most of Vietnam Airlines pilots are ex-military so are highly skilled professionals.

Vietnam Airlines - Rating

A rapidly improving airline that charms passengers with a distinctive Vietnamese flavour and represents excellent value.

www.vietnamairlines.com