Vietnam Airlines is set to make history as it launches nonstop service to Milan, marking it as the first and only airline in Vietnam to offer direct flights to Italy. This new route, which will operate three times a week—on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays—will commence on July 1, 2025. Passengers will travel aboard the state-of-the-art Boeing 787 Dreamliner, enhancing the overall travel experience. With the introduction of this service, Vietnam Airlines will now operate a total of nine routes to various European destinations, showcasing its expanding presence on the continent.
The announcement of the Hanoi to Milan route aligns with Vietnam Airlines’ strategy to diversify its international offerings. Following this initial launch, the airline has plans to introduce a route connecting Ho Chi Minh City to Milan after 2025, further expanding its footprint in the European market. Currently, Vietnam Airlines is the sole carrier providing service between both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to key European cities such as Paris, Frankfurt, and London. The addition of Milan to its network this October will position the airline as a critical player in connecting Southeast Asia with Europe.
Vietnam and Italy share a longstanding diplomatic relationship that dates back to 1973, which was elevated to a strategic partnership in 2013. This relationship has fostered strong economic ties, making Vietnam Italy’s largest trading partner within the ASEAN region, while Italy ranks as Vietnam’s fourth largest trading partner in the European Union. Over the years, bilateral trade has seen steady growth, reflecting the mutual interest in enhancing economic cooperation.
Italy is becoming an increasingly significant market for Vietnam’s aviation sector. In 2023, Vietnam welcomed approximately 81,000 tourists from Italy, reaching about 89 percent of the pre-COVID levels. This is a promising indicator of the potential for growth in travel between the two nations. Moreover, data from the first quarter of 2024 shows that Italian visitors to Vietnam increased by 32 percent compared to the same period in 2019, illustrating a strong rebound in interest and a potential shift in travel patterns toward Vietnam as a favored destination.
Milan, as Italy’s second-largest city, is renowned for its status as one of the world’s leading fashion capitals. The city attracts millions of international travelers, and in 2023, around 37,800 passengers journeyed from Milan to Vietnam, reflecting a 1.4 percent increase compared to 2019. Furthermore, the first quarter of 2024 saw a substantial 24 percent rise in the number of travelers from Milan to Vietnam compared to the same period in 2019. These figures underscore the city’s importance as a hub for business and tourism, making the new route highly anticipated by both Vietnamese and Italian travelers.
The launch of nonstop flights from Hanoi to Milan will not only facilitate easier travel for passengers from Italy but is also expected to attract travelers from neighboring European countries. This new service represents Vietnam Airlines’ ongoing commitment to enhancing its global network and providing greater flexibility for passengers. By bridging the gap between Vietnam and Italy, the airline is not only catering to the demands of leisure and business travelers but is also playing a vital role in strengthening economic, social, and political ties between the two nations. This expansion of services will foster greater connectivity between Vietnam and Europe, paving the way for increased trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges.
As the aviation industry continues to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, Vietnam Airlines’ strategic move to launch this new route is indicative of the growing demand for international travel and the airline’s readiness to meet this demand. By establishing a direct link to Milan, the airline is poised to enhance its competitive edge in the European market, ensuring that it remains a key player in international aviation. The future looks promising for both Vietnam Airlines and the travelers looking to explore the vibrant culture, rich history, and scenic landscapes of Vietnam, as well as for those traveling from Vietnam to experience the unique offerings of Italy.
