Vietnam Airlines has commenced direct air services between Sri Lanka and Vietnam, with the country’s national carrier operating its inaugural flight to Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake on August 16.
The inaugural flight, VN-671, arrived at Bandaranaike International Airport at 11:02 p.m. from Ho Chi Minh City, carrying 164 passengers. The Airbus A320 aircraft was greeted with a traditional water salute upon its arrival at the airport.
A special ceremony was held at BIA to mark the commencement of the new service. Vietnamese Ambassador to Sri Lanka Trinh Thi Tam attended the event as the chief guest.
The launch of the direct flights is expected to strengthen air connectivity between Sri Lanka and Vietnam while facilitating increased travel between the two countries for tourism, business and other purposes.
Following the arrival of the inaugural flight, 172 passengers departed from Katunayake on the return service to Vietnam.
The new direct service is scheduled to operate three times a week, on Sundays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Each flight is expected to take approximately four hours and 30 minutes, providing a direct link between Sri Lanka and Vietnam.