(KPL) Vietnam's largest private airline, Vietjet, has started flights connecting the capital of the Lao PDR with the economic centre of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City.

It is expected to be a route that saves time and cost for traveling between the two countries, as well as providing opportunities for tourism, trade and economic development.

The ceremony was held at Tan Son Nhat International Airport and Wattay International Airport, attended by Deputy Consul General of Laos in Ho Chi Minh City Souvannaseng Amphay, together with Deputy Director of the Department of Civil Aviation of Laos Bounteng Simoun, Deputy Director General of Airports of Laos Sakda Soulisak, Acting Director of Wattay International Airport Keosouly Nuphongsamout, and relevant officials of Lao Airlines and Vietjet.

Four flights will be operated a week on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, where tourists can fly directly from Vientiane to Ho Chi Minh City in less than 2 hours.

The flight departs from Wattay International Airport at 18:45 and arrives at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, Ho Chi Minh City at 20:45. Meanwhile, the flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Vientiane starts at 16:00 and arrives at 17:45 (local time).

Vice President of Vietjet Nguyen Thanh Son said: "The new flight connecting Ho Chi Minh City to Vientiane not only shortens the travel time between Vietnam and Laos, but also expands the air connection of Vientiane to destinations in the region and the world through Vietjet's international flight network. We will continue to offer cheaper tickets on new modern aircraft and our excellence service."

To celebrate the new route, from March 1 to March 8, 2024, Vietjet is giving away special $0 tickets (excluding taxes and fees) for the Vientiane-Ho Chi Minh City route and to destinations in Australia, Republic of Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, India and others. Tourists can get free flight tickets at www.vietjetair.com or the Vietjet Air app and plan travel between April 1 and October 31, 2024.

KPL