Vietnam Airlines Promptly Working on Direct Flights to US

National flag carrier Vietnam Airlines is now actively carrying out the project to open direct flights to the US under the guidance of the government, state media said.

 

In order to complete the project, the airline will organize tours to survey the market once again to evaluate ability to open the route, at the same time, study regulations, conditions as well as airport-related issues of the US side.

 

The airline had planned to launch the direct flight to the US - home to an estimated 1.2 million people of Vietnamese origin - in 2006. But for a number of reasons, including a shortage of aircraft, the plan was delayed.

 

According to Vice General Director Pham Ngoc Minh, Vietnam Airlines would be able to receive only one new plane in 2006, less than its expected volume of five to serve long-distance routes. Airbus and Boeing groups have announced that their large aircraft are intended for the two big markets of China and India.

 

In addition, Vietnam Airlines has still not reached full agreement with the US on procedures and stopovers for its flights, according to the official.

 

Vietnam Airlines now flies to 16 domestic and 27 international destinations.