Vietnam Airlines to Resume Hanoi-Luang Prabang-Siem Reap Route, Boosting Regional Tourism

Vietnam Airlines Resumes Hanoi-Luang Prabang-Siem Reap Route

In a significant development for the regional tourism industry, Vietnam Airlines has announced the resumption of its Hanoi-Luang Prabang-Siem Reap route starting from July 1. This route, which was temporarily suspended due to the Covid-19 pandemic, will now be restarted with three weekly flights, offering greater connectivity and convenience for travelers.

Increased Flight Frequency and Future Plans

The flight connecting three countries will initially depart three times a week on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. From October 30, the number of flights will be increased to five per week, providing even more options for travelers. Vietnam Airlines aims to enhance air travel accessibility and strengthen tourism ties between the countries.

Positive Impact on Tourism and Passenger Growth

Vietnam Airlines’ decision to resume the Hanoi-Luang Prabang-Siem Reap route is expected to have a positive impact on the regional tourism industry. The airline has been operating flights to Siem Reap since 2000 and has experienced a steady increase in passenger numbers. In 2019, they transported 400,000 passengers on trans-Indochina routes, including Hanoi-Luang Prabang-Siem Reap and Hanoi-Vientiane-Phnom Penh-Ho Chi Minh City. The resumption of this route will contribute to the recovery and growth of the tourism sector in the region.

Passenger Growth in Phnom Penh and Collaborative Efforts

Cambodia Airports has reported a significant increase in the number of passengers traveling to Phnom Penh this year, with a growth rate of over 20 percent since January. The busiest destinations include Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, and Seoul, indicating a rise in connectivity and traveler interest in Cambodia. Stephen King, Chief Commercial Officer of Cambodia Airports, expressed delight in welcoming athletes and spectators who recently visited the country for the Southeast Asian Games.

In addition to the resumed flights, Cambodia and Vietnam have agreed to explore the possibility of a direct flight between Siem Reap and Phu Quoc Island. This would further enhance travel options and boost tourism between the two destinations. The ministers of tourism and culture, sports, and tourism from both countries discussed this proposal during their meeting and also signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to jointly promote tourism for sustainable development. The focus will be on developing tourism packages and attracting visitors from other countries under the framework of ‘Two Countries, One Destination.’