Vietnam Airlines’ Hanoi–Cebu flights to boost tourism, business

Insider Spotlight

• Vietnam Airlines launches first direct Hanoi–Cebu service
• Three-hour flights boost two-way tourism and regional connectivity
• New route strengthens airline’s Southeast Asia growth strategy
  

Vietnam Airlines has officially inaugurated its direct service between Hanoi and Cebu, marking a major expansion of the flag carrier’s Southeast Asia network and creating a faster link between two of the region’s most in-demand leisure destinations.

Why it matters

The new service deepens cultural and economic ties between Vietnam and the Philippines while offering travelers more seamless access to top resort and heritage attractions.

Flight VN643, operated by an Airbus A321 with about 100 passengers, departed Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport at 10:50 p.m. on Dec. 2 and arrived at Cebu International Airport at 3:30 a.m. on Dec.3. 

The airline held welcome activities at both airports and gave commemorative gifts to passengers aboard the inaugural flight.

What’s new

This is Vietnam Airlines’ first direct connection between the Vietnamese capital and Cebu, a destination known for its white-sand beaches, cultural landmarks and diverse outdoor experiences. 

The three-hour direct flight substantially shortens travel time for both Vietnamese and Filipino passengers.

Flights from Hanoi to Cebu will operate every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday, while return flights from Cebu to Hanoi will run every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

The big picture

The route strengthens Vietnam Airlines’ push to grow its international footprint, especially in Southeast Asia, a market benefiting from rising tourism demand and expanding commercial links.

The service is expected to boost outbound travel from Vietnam to Cebu while bringing more Filipino travelers to Hanoi, a gateway to destinations such as Ha Long, Ninh Binh and Sapa.

Dang Anh Tuan, executive vice president of Vietnam Airlines, said: "The Hanoi to Cebu service represents more than just a new route. It strengthens cultural and economic connections between Vietnam and the region, creating new opportunities for travel and collaboration. Vietnam Airlines is dedicated to providing safe, and high-quality services that promote tourism and foster closer ties between the two countries."

Zoom out

The launch supports broader tourism and aviation development efforts between Vietnam and the Philippines, reinforcing regional connectivity and opening new avenues for trade, travel and cultural exchange. —Ramon C. Nocon | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma