In a strategic move to accommodate the anticipated surge in travel demand during the Lunar New Year holidays, Vietjet has announced the addition of two aircraft to its fleet through a wet-lease arrangement. This expansion brings the airline’s wet-lease fleet total to six, complementing its existing armada of 105 aircraft. The decision directly responds to the growing need for air travel as Asia gears up for one of its most extended annual celebrations.
The airline’s recent fleet augmentation is part of a broader initiative to add nearly 750 flights, translating into 154,800 additional seats, to cater to the peak travel period across Vietnam and the region. This increase in flight capacity is set to benefit a wide array of travellers, mainly Chinese tourists seeking to explore Vietnam during this festive season. Notably, Vietjet initiated a new route from Shanghai to Ho Chi Minh City in December 2023, enhancing connectivity between these dynamic cities. Moreover, the airline is poised to launch a new service from Chengdu to Ho Chi Minh City on February 10, 2024, the first day of the Lunar New Year, offering travellers from Chengdu an unparalleled opportunity to experience the vibrancy of Vietnamese New Year celebrations.
These strategic route expansions include flights to and from Vietnam’s most sought-after tourist destinations, such as Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Phu Quoc, Hue, Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Da Lat. The focus on these routes underscores Vietjet’s commitment to promoting Vietnam as a top destination among Chinese tourists and international travellers.
Over the past two months, Vietjet has proactively broadened its international flight network to include new destinations such as Shanghai, Vientiane, Siem Reap (Cambodia), Busan (South Korea), and several cities across Australia, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide. This expansion enriches the travel options for Chinese and international tourists planning spring journeys.
In 2023, Vietjet soared to new heights with 133,000 flights, ferrying 25.3 million passengers (excluding Vietjet Thailand) – a remarkable 183% increase year-over-year. This growth trajectory is highlighted by adding 33 new international and domestic routes, elevating the total number of routes to 125, including 80 international and 45 domestic routes. Vietjet’s strategic expansions and commitment to enhancing connectivity reflect its vision to become a leading airline in the region, offering travellers unparalleled access to Vietnam’s unique cultural experiences and beyond.
Written by: Christine Nguyen