Introduction to Vietnam Airlines and Its Position in the Domestic Aviation Market
Vietnam Airlines was founded in 1956 and was officially equitized in 2015. The airline is currently the only full-service carrier in Vietnam to achieve Skytrax 4-star status. Its fleet consists of modern aircraft such as the Airbus A350, Boeing 787 Dreamliner, and A321neo. The airline operates over 30 domestic routes and dozens of international routes.
With its national status, Vietnam Airlines has advantages in high flight frequency and an airport network covering the entire country. From major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang to smaller destinations like Con Dao, Dien Bien, or Rach Gia, the airline offers direct flights.
Vietnam Airlines Fare Structure: Understanding It Correctly to Avoid Losing Money
Main Fare Classes
Not all Economy tickets are the same. Vietnam Airlines divides multiple fare classes within the same cabin, and this directly affects the price as well as the usage conditions.
Economy (Y, M, B, H, Q, V, T, L, K):
- Y, M, B class (flexible tickets): The highest prices in Economy class. Allows free date changes and refunds with low or no fees. Full Lotusmiles mileage accumulation.
- H, Q, V class (standard tickets): Average price. Ticket changes incur a fee of 200,000 - 400,000 VND ($8 - $16). Non-refundable or high refund fees.
- T, L, K class (promotional tickets): Cheapest prices. Name changes and refunds are not allowed. Very low or no mileage accumulation.
Premium Economy (W, E class): An intermediate class between Economy and Business. Wider seats, greater seat pitch, and improved meals. Suitable for flights over 3 hours or for passengers needing more comfort without paying Business class prices.
Business Class (J, C, D, I class): The most premium service. Seats that recline to fully flat 180 degrees on A350/B787. Meals from a dedicated menu, private airport lounges. Suitable for business travelers or those with means.
Types of Fares
- Regular domestic tickets: Listed prices, applicable year-round. Most flexible.
- Promotional tickets: Discounted fares offered periodically, usually with conditions like no changes or refunds.
- Group tickets: Applicable for groups of 10 or more people. 10-20% discount compared to individual tickets.
- Combo tickets: Flight tickets combined with hotels. More economical than booking separately.
Taxes and Fees: What Percentage of the Actual Ticket Price Do They Account For?
Many people only look at the initially displayed ticket price and are surprised when the total payment is higher. Below are the additional fees you must pay:
- Booking fee: 30,000 VND - 50,000 VND ($1.20 - $2)
- VAT: 10% of the ticket price
- Airport service fee: 60,000 VND - 100,000 VND ($2.40 - $4) depending on the airport
- Aviation security fee: 20,000 VND ($0.80)
- Payment fee (if paying online): 0 - 20,000 VND ($0 - $0.80)
Tip: For a Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh City ticket priced at 1,200,000 VND ($48), total taxes and fees are about 280,000 VND ($11.20). The actual total payment is ~1,480,000 VND ($59.20). Always check the "price details" section before paying.
Vietnam Airlines Domestic Fare Table Updated 2026
Ticket prices vary depending on the booking time, travel date, and fare class. The table below shows reference prices for round-trip Economy tickets.
| Route | Base Fare (VND) | Total Payment (VND) | Flight Time | Daily Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh City | 1,200,000 - 3,500,000 ($48 - $140) | 1,480,000 - 3,780,000 ($59.20 - $151.20) | 2h00 | 25-30 flights |
| Hanoi - Da Nang | 800,000 - 2,500,000 ($32 - $100) | 1,080,000 - 2,780,000 ($43.20 - $111.20) | 1h20 | 15-20 flights |
| Ho Chi Minh City - Da Nang | 800,000 - 2,500,000 ($32 - $100) | 1,080,000 - 2,780,000 ($43.20 - $111.20) | 1h15 | 15-20 flights |
| Ho Chi Minh City - Phu Quoc | 700,000 - 2,200,000 ($28 - $88) | 980,000 - 2,480,000 ($39.20 - $99.20) | 1h00 | 10-15 flights |
| Hanoi - Nha Trang | 900,000 - 2,800,000 ($36 - $112) | 1,180,000 - 3,080,000 ($47.20 - $123.20) | 1h45 | 8-12 flights |
| Hanoi - Hue | 800,000 - 2,500,000 ($32 - $100) | 1,080,000 - 2,780,000 ($43.20 - $111.20) | 1h10 | 5-8 flights |
| Ho Chi Minh City - Hai Phong | 1,000,000 - 3,000,000 ($40 - $120) | 1,280,000 - 3,280,000 ($51.20 - $131.20) | 2h00 | 4-6 flights |
| Hanoi - Da Lat | 900,000 - 2,800,000 ($36 - $112) | 1,180,000 - 3,080,000 ($47.20 - $123.20) | 1h40 | 4-6 flights |
Note: Prices vary depending on the booking time, travel date, and fare class. The prices above are for reference for round-trip Economy tickets and do not include checked baggage (except for fare classes that include it).
Comparing Vietnam Airlines with Budget Airlines: Who is Actually Cheaper?
Many travelers only look at the basic fare and assume Vietnam Airlines is more expensive. But when calculating the total actual cost, the story is different.
Comparison of Total Actual Costs (Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh City Route)
| Comparison Factor | Vietnam Airlines | Vietjet Air | Bamboo Airways |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Fare | 1,200,000 VND ($48) | 499,000 VND ($20) | 699,000 VND ($28) |
| 20kg Checked Baggage | Free (most fare classes) | 150,000 - 250,000 VND ($6 - $10) | Free (most fare classes) |
| Hot Meal | Free | 50,000 - 100,000 VND ($2 - $4) | Free |
| Seat Selection | Free (online check-in) | 20,000 - 100,000 VND ($0.80 - $4) | Free |
| Drinks | Free (varied selection) | 15,000 - 30,000 VND ($0.60 - $1.20) | Free |
| Total Actual Cost | ~1,480,000 VND ($59.20) | ~1,000,000 VND ($40) | ~1,080,000 VND ($43.20) |
When to Choose Vietnam Airlines Over a Budget Airline?
- Long flights (>2 hours): Free meals and wider seats provide comfort. If you fly from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, the difference is noticeable.
- Traveling with young children: Better family support services, baby bassinets, and children's meals available.
- Need flexibility for changes/refunds: Higher fare classes of Vietnam Airlines allow free changes. This is important if your schedule is uncertain.
- Accumulating miles: Lotusmiles has higher value than budget airline programs. Miles can be redeemed for international tickets or upgrades.
- Connecting international flights: Vietnam Airlines has partnerships with many international airlines like Delta, Air France, and ANA. Domestic + international tickets often have promotional prices.
Warning: Promotional tickets of Vietnam Airlines (T, L, K class) often do not include checked baggage. Read the terms carefully before booking.
Strategy for Booking Cheap Vietnam Airlines Tickets: Real Data
Best Time to Book
Based on price data from the last 3 years, there are specific time frames that can help you save significantly.
Within the year:
- January - March (after Lunar New Year): Lowest prices, travel demand drops sharply.
- September - November (excluding National Day on Sep 2): Low season, nice weather in the North and Central regions.
- June - August (summer): High prices, especially for beach destinations like Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, Da Nang.
- December - January (New Year and Lunar New Year): Highest prices of the year.
Within the week:
- Tuesday and Wednesday are usually 15-20% lower than the weekend.
- Friday and Sunday are the most expensive days.
Within the day:
- Early morning (6am-8am) and late night (9pm-11pm) flights are often 10-15% cheaper.
- Peak hour flights (9am-5pm) have the highest prices.
Booking window:
- Domestic: 45-60 days before departure is the best price window.
- International: 60-90 days before departure.
Regular Promotional Programs
- "Fly with Vietnam Airlines": 10-30% off on selected routes, usually in March and September.
- "Weekend Deals": Discounts on round-trip tickets for weekend travel. This program is usually announced every Thursday.
- "Savings Combo": Flight + hotel at a package price. Save 15-25% compared to booking separately.
- Lotusmiles Member Program: Redeem miles for tickets, upgrades. Gold and Platinum members receive special offers.
Smart Booking Tools and Tips
- Use the "Flexible Dates" mode on the Vietnam Airlines website to view prices by day. This feature displays ticket prices for the entire month, helping you choose the cheapest day.
- Book round-trip tickets instead of two one-way tickets. Save 10-20%.
- Subscribe to receive promotional notifications via email. Vietnam Airlines usually sends notifications 1-2 weeks in advance.
- Use the Vietnam Airlines mobile app. The app often has exclusive offers for users.
Tip: If you are flying to destinations like Phong Nha, combine your flight tickets with cave exploration tours. Refer to the article Phong Nha zipline: the honest guide to flying over the Son River for more details.
Detailed Baggage Regulations: Avoid Unexpected Fees
Carry-on Baggage
- Economy: 1 main piece (56x36x23cm) + 1 accessory (handbag/laptop). Maximum total weight 7kg.
- Premium Economy: 1 main piece + 1 accessory. Maximum total weight 10kg.
- Business: 2 pieces + 1 accessory. Maximum total weight 18kg.
Warning: 28-inch suitcases are not allowed on board. The maximum size for carry-on baggage is 56x36x23cm (equivalent to a 20-22 inch suitcase). If you bring a larger suitcase, you will have to check it in at the airport with a higher fee than if purchased in advance.
Checked Baggage
- Economy (standard fare classes): 20-23kg (depending on fare class).
- Economy (promotional fare classes): May not include baggage. Check carefully when booking.
- Premium Economy: 30kg.
- Business: 40-50kg (depending on route).
Special Items
- Sports equipment (tennis rackets, golf clubs): Surcharge of 300,000 - 500,000 VND ($12 - $20).
- Musical instruments: Must be notified 48 hours in advance.
- Strollers: Free of charge.
- Pets: Surcharge of 500,000 - 1,000,000 VND ($20 - $40), must be booked at least 48 hours in advance.
Ticket Change, Refund, and Cancellation Policies: What to Know Before Booking
Ticket Change Conditions by Fare Class
| Fare Class | Date/Route Change | Name Change | Refund |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flexible Economy (Y/M/B) | Free + fare difference | Allowed (fee 200,000 VND / $8) | Refundable (fee 300,000-500,000 VND / $12-$20) |
| Standard Economy (H/Q/V) | Fee 200,000-400,000 VND ($8-$16) + fare difference | Not allowed | 50% refund fee |
| Promotional Economy (T/L/K) | Fee 500,000 VND ($20) + fare difference (if any) | Not allowed | Non-refundable |
| Premium Economy | Free + fare difference | Allowed (fee 200,000 VND / $8) | Refundable (fee 300,000 VND / $12) |
| Business | Free + fare difference | Allowed (free) | Refundable (fee 200,000 VND / $8) |
Change/Refund Procedure
- Change tickets online via website/app (free for higher fare classes).
- Change tickets via the hotline 1900 1800 (service fee 20,000 VND / $0.80).
- Change tickets at the airport ticket counter (at least 3 hours before departure).
- Processing time: 15-30 minutes (online), 1-3 working days (refunds).
Tip: If you have a non-refundable promotional ticket, consider buying travel insurance. Insurance costs 30,000 - 50,000 VND ($1.20 - $2) and provides compensation for trip cancellation or delay.
Real Flight Experience: What Makes the Difference?
Seat Quality
- A350/B787 (long-haul routes): Economy seats are 18 inches wide with a 32-inch pitch. Features 9-12 inch touchscreen entertainment screens and USB charging ports.
- A321 (short-haul routes): Seats are 17.5 inches wide with a 30-inch pitch. No entertainment screens on most domestic aircraft.
- Comparison with budget airlines: Seats are 1-2 inches wider, seat pitch is 2-3 inches larger. This difference is noticeable on long flights.
Meals and Drinks
- Domestic routes (<2 hours): Sweet bread, bottled water, coffee, or tea.
- Domestic routes (>2 hours): Hot meal (rice or pho) with a variety of drinks.
- International routes: 2 meals (depending on flight length) with complimentary wine and beer.
- Special meals: Diet, Halal, Kosher, vegetarian. Must be ordered 24 hours in advance.
In-flight Services
- In-flight Entertainment (IFE): 9-12 inch touchscreen on A350/B787. Not available on domestic A321s.
- Wi-Fi: Available on some A350/B787 aircraft (fee $5-$10).
- USB charging ports: Available on most new-generation aircraft.
- Blankets/pillows: Free on long flights.
Detailed Check-in Guide
Online Check-in
- Opening time: 24 hours before departure.
- Closing time: 60 minutes before departure (domestic), 90 minutes (international).
- How to do it: Vietnam Airlines website or app. Enter booking code and last name.
- Note: Passengers with checked baggage still need to go to the bag drop counter.
Airport Check-in
- Counter opening: 2 hours before departure (domestic), 3 hours (international).
- Counter closing: 40 minutes before departure (domestic), 50 minutes (international).
- Self-service kiosks: Available at Noi Bai (Hanoi), Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City), Da Nang.
Airports Served by Vietnam Airlines
- Northern Region: Noi Bai (Hanoi), Cat Bi (Hai Phong), Van Don (Quang Ninh), Dien Bien, Tho Xuan (Thanh Hoa), Vinh (Nghe An).
- Central Region: Da Nang, Phu Bai (Hue), Cam Ranh (Nha Trang), Chu Lai (Quang Nam), Phu Cat (Quy Nhon), Pleiku (Gia Lai), Buon Ma Thuot (Dak Lak), Tuy Hoa (Phu Yen), Dong Hoi (Quang Binh).
- Southern Region: Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City), Phu Quoc (Kien Giang), Can Tho, Lien Khuong (Da Lat), Rach Gia (Kien Giang), Ca Mau, Con Dao (Ba Ria - Vung Tau).
Tip: If you are flying to Con Dao, book your tickets early as flight frequency is limited (1-2 flights/day). This is an advantage of Vietnam Airlines over budget airlines. See more in the article Con Dao vs Phu Quoc: Why Vietnam’s Prison Archipelago Wins for Real Escapes.
Frequently Asked Questions about Vietnam Airlines Ticket Prices and Booking
Q: How much are Vietnam Airlines domestic tickets?
Ticket prices range from 700,000 VND to 3,500,000 VND ($28 to $140) depending on the route, time, and fare class. The total payment is usually about 250,000 - 300,000 VND ($10 - $12) higher than the listed price due to taxes and fees.
Q: How can I buy cheap Vietnam Airlines tickets?
Book 45-60 days in advance, choose to fly on weekdays (Tuesday-Wednesday), and select early morning or late night flights. Subscribe to promotional notifications via email and use the "Flexible Dates" function on the airline's website.
Q: Are Vietnam Airlines tickets refundable?
It depends on the fare class. Flexible Economy tickets (Y/M/B) are refundable with a fee of 300,000 - 500,000 VND ($12 - $20). Promotional tickets (T/L/K) are non-refundable. See the detailed change/refund policy table in the article.
Q: Does Vietnam Airlines have any student discounts?
Yes, there is a "Student" program offering a 10-15% discount for university students. A valid student ID must be presented during check-in. Applicable to selected domestic routes.
Q: Should I buy travel insurance when booking a Vietnam Airlines ticket?
You should buy it if your ticket is non-refundable or has high cancellation fees. Travel insurance costs 30,000 - 50,000 VND ($1.20 - $2) and provides compensation for trip cancellation/delay or lost baggage. It can be purchased when booking online.
Q: How many kg of checked baggage does Vietnam Airlines allow?
Economy is usually 20-23kg, Premium Economy is 30kg, and Business is 40-50kg. Some promotional tickets do not include checked baggage. Check carefully when booking.
Q: Can I bring a 28-inch suitcase on a Vietnam Airlines flight?
No. The maximum carry-on baggage size is 56x36x23cm (equivalent to a 20-22 inch suitcase). A 28-inch suitcase must be checked in. Oversized baggage fees at the airport are higher than if purchased in advance.
Q: Does Vietnam Airlines fly directly to Con Dao?
Yes. Vietnam Airlines operates direct flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Con Dao (VCS) with a frequency of 1-2 flights per day. This is an advantage of Vietnam Airlines over budget airlines.