Vietnam’s international aviation network is entering a new growth phase.

Several new direct flight routes launching in 2026 are expected to improve accessibility, strengthen regional connections, and create new opportunities for tourism and MICE across Asia and Europe.

Among the most notable developments is the first-ever direct flight between Hanoi and Tel Aviv, operated by Arkia Airlines. The new route reduces travel time to around 11.5 hours and is expected to support stronger tourism, business, and cultural exchange between Vietnam and Israel.

At the same time, Vietnam Airlines is accelerating its international expansion with:

• The first nonstop Hanoi – Amsterdam route
• A new direct Ho Chi Minh City – Colombo service
• Expanded connections to Copenhagen and Cebu

These developments reflect Vietnam’s growing role as an emerging aviation and tourism hub in Asia.

Why this matters for the travel industry: Direct air links are becoming a major driver for destination competitiveness, long-haul tourism growth, and multi-country travel development.

For B2B travel partners, these new routes could create stronger opportunities in:

• Luxury & FIT travel
• Corporate and incentive groups
• Multi-country itineraries
• Buddhist & cultural tourism
• Expansion into emerging source markets

Flight routes & frequencies:

• Hanoi – Tel Aviv (Arkia Airlines): 1 weekly direct flight
• Hanoi – Amsterdam (Vietnam Airlines): 3 round trips/week from June 16, 2026
• Ho Chi Minh City – Colombo (Vietnam Airlines): 3 round trips/week from October 2026
• Ho Chi Minh City – Copenhagen (Vietnam Airlines): 3 round trips/week
• Hanoi – Cebu (Vietnam Airlines): 3 round trips/week

As direct connectivity continues to expand, Vietnam is strengthening its position as one of Asia’s fastest-growing tourism gateways.

At ASIA DMC, we continue to explore new opportunities to help our partners build more seamless, flexible, and market-driven travel experiences across Vietnam and Southeast Asia.