Vietnam Airlines Guide 2026: Flight Booking, Policies & Best Deals

Vietnam Airlines is a full-service flag carrier and the largest airline of Vietnam. Headquartered in Hanoi, it operates an extensive domestic and international network connecting travelers to major cities across Asia, Europe, and Australia. As a member of the SkyTeam airline alliance, Vietnam Airlines allows passengers to access hundreds of destinations around the world through partner airlines. As of July 2026, Vietnam Airlines (SkyTeam) serves 21 domestic and 43 international destinations in 24 countries, and departs from 64 airports in 24 countries. 

Vietnam Airlines Fleet Details and History

The history of Vietnam Airlines dates back to January 1956 when it was brought to existence, marking the birth of the civil aviation sector in the country. In its inception stage, the airline had in its fleet just 5 propeller aircraft of IL 14, AN 2 and Aero 45. It took its first domestic flight in September 1956. Soon after that, Vietnam Airlines made a rapid progression in its growth, setting a milestone of expansion and effective operation of different international routes to Asian countries, such as Laos, Cambodia, China, Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines, and Singapore, all the way to becoming a member of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). 

Significant milestones achieved by the airline include becoming an official member of IATA in 2006, and the 10th member of the SkyTeam Alliance in 2010. Today, Vietnam Airlines eyes to become a fully certified five-star international carrier by 2030, ranking among the top 10 most preferred carriers in Asia. 

Vietnam Airlines operates one of the youngest and most modern fleets consisting mainly of Airbus aircraft for short to medium-haul routes, whereas the wide-body Boeing of the airline serves as long-haul international flights to serve passengers. 

 

 Read Also: Lufthansa Airlines | History & Facts

Long-haul, wide-body aircraft:

• Airbus A350-900 - It is used for long-haul global routes and high-density regional flights.
• Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner - These high fuel-efficient planes serve transcontinental and intercontinental flights.
• Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner - These planes are the stretched version of the 787 designed to carry more passengers on high demand routes.

Short to medium-haul narrow-body aircraft:

• Airbus A321-200 - They serve as the backbone of the domestic and regional fleet.
• Airbus A321neo - They are newer and more fuel-efficient versions of A321 models.
• Airbus A320neo - They are narrow-body aircraft designed for short-haul routes.

Vietnam Airlines Destinations and Routes

Vietnam Airlines serves an extensive route network of over 60 destinations across Asia, Europe, Australia and North America by using its major hubs at Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, linking global markets with an extensive domestic network. 

Key Domestic network - 

• Ha Noi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Hue, Phu Quoc, Hai Phong, Dong Hoi, Dien Bien Phu, Thanh Hoa, Con Dao, Quy Nhon, Vinh, Da Lat, Buon Ma Thuot, Da Lat, Pleiku, Tuy Hoa, Rach Gia.

Key International network - 

• Asia-Pacific: Hong Kong, Indonesia (Bali, Jakarta), Laos (Luang Prabang, Vientiane), Macau, Sri Lanka (Colombo), Thailand (Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket), China (Beijing, Hangzhou), and Japan.

• Europe: Major hubs such as Paris and London.
• Americas: Direct routes to the United States.
• Middle East: Saudi Arabia (Jeddah, Riyadh) and United Arab Emirates (Dubai).
• Other regions: Including Australia and various destinations across Asia.

More on this reference guide: Vietnam Airlines flights

Bonus content - Vietnam Airlines has a large codeshare network facilitated through SkyTeam membership and codeshare agreements, allowing passengers to access hundreds of additional destinations operated by Partner Airlines worldwide under a single itinerary.

 

Vietnam Airlines Operating Model

One of the biggest takeaways from Vietnam Airlines operating model is that it operates as a full-service carrier, rather than as a low-cost carrier. The model it operates focuses on providing a complete travel experience that includes various passenger services within the ticket fare and fare class purchased. 

In other words, it uses a hub-and-spoke operating model centered on its main transport nodes at Noi Ban International Airport (HAN) in Hanoi, Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang International Airport (DAD).

Key pillars of Vietnam airlines operating model:

• Global Alliances through which it provides access to over 1,000 destinations via codeshares and partner airlines, thanks to the member of SkyTeam alliance.

• Fleet strategy where the airline brilliantly operates over 100 aircraft, relying on its wide-body planes for long-haul international routes, and narrow-body aircraft for short-haul routes.
• The operating model of Vietnam airlines also includes delegating regional and niche operations to subsidiaries like VASCO for domestic island routes, while managing the planned divestment of its low-cost subsidiary, Pacific Airlines.

Key features of Vietnam airlines operating model:

• Complimentary meals on many flights
• Checked baggage allowance on eligible fares
• In-flight entertainment on wide-body aircraft
• Premium cabin options
• Loyalty rewards
• International airlines partnerships

Vietnam Airlines Cabin Classes

Vietnam Airlines offers three main cabin classes: Economy, Premium, and Business Class, each featuring a different level of comfort and convenience for passengers. Economy is mostly a standard option, Premium one is for extra legroom and Business one features upgraded meals and flat-bed seats. Let's discuss how these cabin classes feature and what it means for passengers.

Business Class

• Seats: Designed for maximum comfort, featuring seats that can fully recline into a flat bed on long-haul flights.
• Amenities: Equipped with reading lights, personal entertainment screens, high-quality headphones, USB charging ports, and other modern features.
• Ground Services: Passengers have access to luxury Lotus Lounge facilities, priority check-in counters, early boarding, and fast baggage handling.
• Dining: Premium meal services are provided, including fine wines and a wide selection of beverages.

Premium Economy Class

• Seats: Offers more spacious seating compared to Economy Class, providing a more comfortable journey.
• Amenities: Includes amenities such as reading lights, entertainment screens, headphones, and USB charging ports.
• Dining: Two meals with additional snacks (on long-haul flights), premium wines, special meals can be pre-ordered 24 hours before flight. Dining is subject to flight duration, route and aircraft configuration.

Note: On specific routes like Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City (operated by Boeing 787 or Airbus A350), passengers may enjoy additional benefits, such as priority check-in/boarding, increased baggage allowance (12kg carry-on and 32kg checked baggage), and priority baggage tagging.

Economy Class

• Seats: Designed with reasonable recline and legroom to ensure comfort and convenience throughout the flight.
• Amenities: Includes pillow and blanket sets, personal items like eye masks, amenity kits (on long-haul flights, tea, coffee, wine, beer, etc.
• Dining: Passengers can pre-order special meals free but LotusDeli is not complimentary. Specific meal menus and services vary depending on the flight duration, route and aircraft configuration.

Note: Seat specifications may vary depending on the aircraft type.

Vietnam Airlines Baggage Policies

The baggage policies of Vietnam Airlines depend on whether you are carrying hand baggage or checked baggage. They also depend on the route network of the airline and the class of service in place. 

Hand (carry-on) baggage

Passengers are not charged for hand baggage but they need to ensure the baggage fits comfortably in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of them.

Weight of carry-on baggage on domestic routes

• For business class passengers, the total weight should not exceed 18 kg, including 2 pieces and 1 accessory.
• For premium economy/economy class passengers, the total weight should not exceed 12 kg, including 1 piece of no more than 10 kg, and 1 accessory.

Weight of carry-on baggage on other routes

Vietnam Airlines provides clear baggage allowances for carry-on and checked luggage, including child travel benefits, route-specific limits, and excess baggage options, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

To/from the US, Australia, Europe (including Russia):

• For business/premium economy class passengers, the total weight of carry-on baggage must not exceed 18 kg, including 2 pieces of less than 10 kg and 1 accessory.
• For economy class passengers, the total weight of carry-on baggage must not exceed 12 kg, including 1 piece of no more than 10 kg, and 1 accessory.

Carry-on baggage for children

• Infants under 2 years may bring one 3 kg carry-on baggage for baby essentials, and one foldable stroller/pram that fits in the cabin baggage compartment.
• Children aged 2 and above may bring one foldable stroller. 
• Eligible strollers/prams will be checked free of charge, if cabin storage is full.

Free Checked baggage

• Maximum dimensions of a checked baggage piece should not exceed 158cm. 
• The weight of the checked baggage for domestic passengers in business class is 1 piece of 32 kg, for premium economy class is 1 piece of 32 kg, and for economy class is 1 piece of 23 kg.

Note: Regulations on free checked baggage vary by routes. More info on this reference guide: Vietnam Airlines Regulations on free checked baggage.

Excess Baggage

• If your checked baggage exceeds the free baggage allowance,  you need to purchase additional checked baggage either as prepared baggage or as excess baggage at the airport. 

Special Baggage Allowance

Special baggage is charged and not included in the free baggage allowance, except for specially described cases. In addition, charges related to special baggage are applied to flights operated by Vietnam Airlines, while policies of other carriers are applied to their operating segments, for trips to or from America.

Prohibited items for carriage in carry-on and checked baggage

• Explosives and items containing explosives
• Flammable substances in the form of gas, liquids, and solids
• Oxidizers, organic peroxides, and related items.
• Corrosives, infectious, toxic substances and related items.
• Radioactive materials, magnetized materials
• Compressed gases, materials that are easily ignited, poisonous, offensive, or irritating substances.
• Organic detergents
• Hair irons with non-removable batteries.

Delayed, damaged and lost baggage

Vietnam Airlines ensures safety and convenience of passengers and extends full assistance in the context of delayed, damaged and lost baggage. Therefore, the airline recommends passengers to contact the airline staff at the lost baggage counter at the arrival airport. Passengers are required to visit Worldtracer to look up and update the baggage pick up address by destination in the itinerary. 

Your PIR will be used to confirm that your baggage was mishandled and for any compensation later on. Moreover, unclaimed baggage will be kept at the airport of arrival by Vietnam Airlines for passengers to get it after contacting the airline. If not picked up, the airline will store the unclaimed baggage for 90 days, inclusive of applicable storage charges. 

Read More: All Nippon Airways Baggage Allowance

Vietnam Airlines check-in details

Vietnam Airlines offers multiple check-in options for passengers helping them begin their journey hassle-free. Depending on the departure airport and your flight, you can go for online check in, though you can also make use of the airline's official mobile app. 

On the other hand, you can opt for airport check-in counters in cases explicitly required by the airline. Eligible passengers can also use mobile boarding passes to speed up security and boarding procedures. It is worth noting that opening and closing times for check in vary by route and airport, so being punctual is essential to avoid unnecessary delays and smoother journeys.

Online check in via web or mobile app

Passengers can check in via Vietnam Airlines website or its official mobile app. The checking in process is the same for either option. The permissible timeframe for this option is from 24 hours to nearly 1 hour before the scheduled departure time. Checking in online involves entering your PNR, electronic ticket number, or frequent flyer number in the check-in section on the website or mobile app. Once finished, save your boarding pass as a PDF on your mobile device to present at the airport. 

Airport Check in 

Locate your check in counter using the electronic boards at the airport, then present your ticket and identification to the staff. Your details will be verified, and a boarding pass will be issued. Process regarding checked baggage will also be done then and there. 

You need to complete immigration processes if traveling internationally. You will have to undergo security screening for hand baggage and personal items. Now, proceed to your departure gate. 

Opening times for airport check in

• Domestic flights: 2 hours up to 40 minutes before the departure.

• International flights: 3 hours up to 50 minutes before the departure.

Note: The counters close 60 minutes before the flight departure for flights at Kuala Lumpur, Charles de Gaulle, Frankfurt, Heathrow, and San Francisco. Also, passengers aged 60 and above, or infants under 2 years, or passengers needing specialised service are required to check in at the airport counter instead of using a kiosk.

Kiosk check-in

It is available in some airports where passengers can purchase additional checked baggage or complete the check-in process at a kiosk. It opens 6 hours up to 60 minutes before the departure for domestic flights, and for international flights, it opens from 6 hours up to 60 minutes before the flight takeoff. 

Note: At certain airports (such as Tan Son Nhat, Noi Bai, Da Nang, Cam Ranh, Can Tho, Narita, Haneda, Kansai, Nagoya, and Fukuoka), you may be able to purchase excess baggage directly at the kiosk.

Vietnam Airlines Flight Cancellation and Refund Policy

Vietnam Airlines offers different refund policies depending on whether the cancellation is voluntary or involuntary (like flight disruptions). As far as voluntary refund is concerned, if you choose to cancel your flight due to personal reasons, the refund is subject to the specific fare rules of your ticket. 

How to request for refund (if done voluntarily)

• For tickets purchased on the Vietnam Airlines website or app: You can perform the refund under the "Manage Booking" section.

• If tickets are purchased at ticket offices or through agents, contact the place of purchase directly for assistance. 
• Once the request is processed, Vietnam Airlines will refund the amount to your original payment method within 15 working days. The exact timing depends on your issuing bank.
• The online refund feature is not applicable for tickets that you have purchased with Cash and Miles, Konbini, or certain bank/convenience store payments. For clarification and further help, please visit a Vietnam Airlines ticket office.

Involuntary Refund (due to flight disruptions)

Vietnam Airlines facilitates involuntary refund in cases where it changes the flight schedule or cancels a flight. In that case, the domestic flights in Vietnam or international flights departing from Vietnam (excluding the US), passengers may be exempt from refund restrictions and fees. It depends on If the airline changes the schedule at least 1 day before departure and the flight is delayed by 4 hours or more. 

Other applicable protections include:

• The flight is canceled and a replacement flight is provided with a departure time difference of 4 hours or more.
• The flight is canceled and no suitable alternative is provided.
• You are denied boarding due to the airline's error.

Refund related to the flights departing from South Korea:

If you request a refund within 24 hours of ticket issuance, you will receive a full refund. And this also includes exemption from no-show fees and refund restrictions. After 24 hours, the standard Fare Rules apply.

For flights to/from the USA:

• Within 24 hours of booking (provided the booking was made at least 1 week before departure): You can cancel for a full refund, exempt from fees and restrictions.
• After 24 hours: Refunds follow the Fare Rules, with exceptions for medical reasons (supported by official documentation) or force majeure events.

Refund for Passenger Service Charges

For non-refundable tickets, you may still be eligible to claim a refund for certain unused passenger service charges (such as security screening fees) for international or domestic flights. You can contact the Contact Center or a ticket office to support this process.

Scenarios where refund restrictions and cancellation fees may not be applicable:

Don't think that Vietnam Airlines can sentence you to a cancellation penalty if you have done so voluntarily. There are certain scenarios where the airline considers exempting passengers from potential cancellation fees. What are they? Read further.

• If Vietnam Airlines changes the flight schedule at least 1 day before departure and the flight is delayed by 4 hours or more.
• If the flight is canceled and a replacement flight is provided with a departure time difference of 4 hours or more.
• If the flight is canceled and no suitable alternative is provided.
• If you are denied boarding due to the airline's error.
• For tickets to/from the USA, if you are unable to travel due to government travel restrictions or medical advice for serious infectious diseases (supported by official documentation), you may be eligible for a full refund.
• If Vietnam Airlines changes the schedule and you do not accept the proposed alternative, or if you have already been involuntarily rebooked once, you may be eligible for a refund without fees.
• If Vietnam Airlines changes the flight schedule and you do not accept the new option, you are entitled to an involuntary refund.

Scenarios where passengers are required to bear cancellation penalties

While Vietnam Airlines has afforded some relaxations for passengers by exempting them from cancellation fees, there are certain unavoidable circumstances where bearing cancellation penalties is unavoidable for passengers. What are the scenarios? Read further.

• If you decide to cancel your flight for personal reasons, the refund and cancellation terms are strictly governed by the Fare Rules of your specific ticket.
• Depending on your fare type (e.g., Economy Lite, Economy Classic, etc.), you may be charged a cancellation fee.
• You can check the exact refund conditions and fees during the booking process or in the "Manage Booking" section on the Vietnam Airlines website or app.
• If the flight disruption (delay or cancellation) does not meet the minimum thresholds (such as a delay of 4 hours or more, or a schedule change made less than 1 day before departure), the standard fare rules and penalties will apply (for Domestic/International flights from Vietnam (excluding the USA).
• (Flight from South Korea) If you request a refund more than 24 hours after the ticket was issued, you must follow the standard Fare Rules, which may include penalties.

Status of cancellation penalty during no-show 

If you fail to present yourself for travel without prior notification (No-show), you will typically be subject to no-show fees and may lose the right to a refund, depending on your fare type.

Vietnam Airlines Seat Selection and In-flight Services

Vietnam Airlines offers flexible seat selection, comfortable cabin options, quality in-flight dining, and onboard Wi-Fi on select aircraft. Whether you prefer extra legroom or premium services, passengers can personalize their travel experience for greater comfort and convenience.

Seat selection

You can select your preferred seats during the booking process, during online check-in, or via the "Manage Booking" section on the Vietnam Airlines website/app. You may also contact an airline office or agent for assistance.

Seat Categories:

Priority Seats:

• A320/321: First 03 rows of Economy Class.
• A350/B787: First 02 rows of Economy Class.
• ATR: Last 03 rows of Economy Class.

Extra Legroom Seats: 

Located at the emergency exit rows. Please note that passengers in these seats must meet specific safety requirements (e.g., age 15+, able to assist in emergencies, etc.).

Preferred Seats: 

Located in the upper half of the aircraft (Aisle/Middle/Window).

Standard Seats: 

Located in the lower half of the aircraft (Aisle/Middle/Window).

In-flight services

Vietnam Airlines enhances your journey with delicious onboard meals, special dietary options, and in-flight Wi-Fi on select aircraft routes.

Meals and Drinks:

• Economy Class: High-quality meals featuring a combination of Vietnamese and international cuisine are served after the aircraft reaches cruising altitude.
• Business Class: A premium dining experience with multiple meal services (Breakfast, Lunch/Dinner, and Mid-day snacks) depending on the flight duration.
• Special Meals: You can pre-order special meals to suit your dietary needs.

In-flight Connectivity

Passengers traveling on certain Airbus A350 aircraft can experience In-Flight Connectivity (Internet service) for work, entertainment, and communication. Please note Wi-Fi is not free for all passengers, but they can enjoy 15 minutes of free messaging on both domestic and international flights. Different Wi-Fi charges are applicable depending on routes. 

Wi-Fi charges for Vietnam-USA routes:

• Messaging throughout the flight: 7 USD
• 1 hour of Internet access: 12 USD
• Full flight Internet access: 25 USD
• Vietnam - Europe/Australia:
• Messaging throughout the flight: 5 USD
• 1 hour of Internet access: 10 USD
• Full flight Internet access: 20 USD

Wi-Fi charges for other routes:

• Messaging throughout the flight: 5 USD
• 1 hour of Internet access: 8 USD
• Full flight Internet access: 18 USD

Vietnam Airlines Loyalty Program

The Vietnam Airlines loyalty program is known as Lotusmiles, a dedicated program for frequent flyers with a history of over 25 years and more than 6 million members.

Benefits for passengers:

• Earn miles: You can accumulate miles by flying with Vietnam Airlines, its partner airlines, or through transactions with various partners such as banks, hotels, telecommunications, and shopping services.
• Redeem miles: Accumulated miles can be used to book Award Tickets, upgrade seat classes, access Business Lounges, or obtain additional checked baggage allowance.

Tier-based Privileges: As you fly more, your membership tier increases (from Silver, Titanium, Gold, Platinum, to Million Miler), offering progressively greater benefits such as:

• Priority services: Priority check-in, priority boarding, and priority seat confirmation.
• Additional baggage: Extra checked baggage allowance.
• Lounge access: Access to Business Lounges.
• Special gifts: Such as bonus miles on your birthday.

Why Fly with Vietnam Airlines?

Flying with Vietnam Airlines is a delight passengers can’t verbalise in words, considering the airline is leaving no stone unturned in making it fantastic and hassle-free by combining modern fleet, comprehensive domestic coverage, and a growing international network with benefits of a full service airline. 

Being a member of the world-renowned SkyTeam alliance allows the airline to enhance its service capabilities and provide a comprehensive travel experience to passengers. Besides, multiple cabin options, and Lotusmiles loyalty program also ground for a practical choice for both leisure and business travelers to prioritize Vietnam Airlines.