AirAsia Launches Direct Bangkok–Hai Phong Flights: Affordable Gateway to Northern Vietnam’s UNESCO Gems

Published: July 17, 2025
Category: Industry News | Southeast Asia Travel | Airline Routes

AirAsia continues to expand its Southeast Asian footprint with the launch of a new direct route between Bangkok (Don Mueang Airport) and Hai Phong, Vietnam. This four-times-weekly service, operating on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, significantly boosts affordable air access to northern Vietnam’s emerging destinations—especially the UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay, just an hour away by road.

For travel professionals, consolidators, and corporate planners, this development offers not only cost-effective fare options but also a strategic link connecting Thailand and Vietnam’s rising tourism corridors.

A Strategic Route Connecting Thailand and Vietnam

The new Bangkok–Hai Phong flight route comes at a pivotal time as travel across Asia rebounds strongly in 2025. With promotional fares starting at just THB 1,790 one way, this connection makes cross-border travel more accessible to budget travellers, short-haul business flyers, and weekend adventurers alike.

More importantly, Hai Phong provides a gateway to culturally rich, less saturated destinations, enabling agents to package unique Vietnam experiences beyond the standard Hanoi-Ho Chi Minh circuit.

Promotional Fare Window:

Booking period: July 16–27, 2025
Travel period: July 28–October 24, 2025
Starting Fare: THB 1,790 one way (subject to availability)

Hai Phong: Vietnam’s Coastal Hub Near Ha Long Bay

Located along Vietnam’s northeastern coast, Hai Phong blends colonial-era architecture, traditional cuisine, and vibrant port-city life. It has increasingly positioned itself as a rising tourism hub, offering a more authentic alternative to Vietnam’s mainstream hotspots.

The biggest draw? Ha Long Bay—a UNESCO World Heritage marvel known for its limestone cliffs, emerald waters, and island-hopping adventures—is just a 50-minute car ride from Hai Phong International Airport. This new air route simplifies access for travellers arriving from Thailand and beyond.

Vietnam Travel Demand Soars in 2025

AirAsia’s route launch reflects a broader market shift: increasing traveller interest in offbeat, immersive travel experiences in Southeast Asia. Corporate travel planners and B2B agents now see value in promoting lesser-known, high-reward destinations like Hai Phong.

The route was inaugurated with ceremonial welcomes at both airports, symbolising renewed cross-border ties and tourism partnerships.

AirAsia’s Expanding Vietnam Footprint

With this addition, AirAsia now serves six Vietnamese cities directly from Bangkok, offering a robust flight network to support rising demand:

Vietnam DestinationFlights Per WeekHanoiUp to 21Ho Chi Minh CityUp to 25Da NangUp to 21Nha Trang7Phu Quoc7Hai Phong (NEW)4

Additionally, Chiang Mai–Hanoi operates with 7 flights weekly, underlining Thailand’s growing importance as a regional air hub for Southeast Asian travel.

Opportunities for B2B Travel Agents and Operators

For consolidators, agents, and MICE planners, the Bangkok–Hai Phong route offers:

By connecting two emerging tourism zones, this route helps redistribute tourist flow and creates a compelling case for alternative itineraries that balance cost, convenience, and cultural value.

Conclusion: Building Tomorrow’s Regional Tourism Networks

As Southeast Asia evolves into a more interconnected airspace, direct routes like Bangkok–Hai Phong represent a vital tool for reshaping tourism flows in 2025. They open new revenue streams, empower agents with more options, and promote sustainable growth in lesser-known regions like northern Vietnam.

With competitive pricing, cultural richness, and a UNESCO gem at its doorstep, this new air link is a win-win for travellers and travel businesses alike.

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