HANOI — Vietnam Airlines, Vietnam's national flag carrier, will launch a new direct air route connecting Hanoi, Vietnam, and Cebu, Philippines, starting on December 1 this year. The route, estimated to operate three times a week (Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays) using the Airbus A321 aircraft, marks Vietnam Airlines' first direct service to Cebu. This signifies a major step forward in the airline's strategy for expansion across the Southeast Asian region.

Strengthening Competitiveness with Convenience and Enhanced Service 

The most significant feature of the new direct route is the dramatic reduction in flight time. Unlike existing transit routes, which typically take 6 to 8 hours, this direct flight will connect Hanoi and Cebu in approximately 3 hours, offering passengers exceptional convenience. Vietnam Airlines plans to apply its 4-star service standard on this route to maximize customer satisfaction.

With the launch of the Hanoi-Cebu route, the total number of weekly flights operated by Vietnam Airlines between Vietnam and the Philippines, including the existing Manila route, will increase to 12. This is viewed as a crucial step that will significantly contribute to the promotion of tourism, trade, and cultural exchange between the two countries, while also supporting Vietnam's international integration.

Mr. Đặng Anh Tuấn, Vice President of Vietnam Airlines, emphasized the significance of the route opening, stating, "This route demonstrates the airline’s resolve to strengthen regional connectivity and uphold Resolution 59-NQ/TW on international integration." The new service is expected to generate stable, two-way travel demand between Vietnam and the Philippines.

Special Fares and the Allure of Cebu 

To celebrate the route launch, Vietnam Airlines has introduced a special round-trip fare. Economy Class tickets start from a minimum of 5.66 million Vietnamese Dong (approximately 212 US Dollars), and Business Class from 24.44 million Vietnamese Dong. These promotional fares apply to passengers who purchase and complete their travel by February 28, 2026. Special benefits, including extra baggage allowance and Lotusmiles bonus miles, will also be offered.

Cebu, the key city in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines, is a popular vacation spot boasting both beautiful beaches and rich historical heritage. Historic tourist attractions, such as the Sto. Niño Church, Magellan's Cross, and the Spanish fort, Fort San Pedro, are located in the city center, offering glimpses of the Spanish colonial era.

In Cebu City, visitors can enjoy shopping and dining at large malls like Ayala Center or SM Seaside Mall, while a variety of marine activities are available on the surrounding Mactan Island. Notably, the Oslob whale shark tours in Southern Cebu and the Moalboal sardine run diving are among the most beloved marine leisure activities for divers worldwide. The opening of this direct route is expected to further increase the number of Vietnamese tourists visiting Cebu.