Vietjet, PAL & Loong Air Expand Asia Routes: New Flights Set to Boost Regional Travel Demand

Vietjet Launches Daily Danang–Kuala Lumpur Route

Vietnam’s low-cost carrier Vietjet is set to further enhance its Southeast Asian footprint with the launch of a new daily nonstop service between Danang and Kuala Lumpur, beginning October 26, 2025.

This strategic addition strengthens air connectivity between central Vietnam and Malaysia’s capital, catering to growing demand from business travelers, leisure tourists, and trade partners. It marks Vietjet’s third direct route to Malaysia, reinforcing its position as a key player in Southeast Asia’s aviation market.

The new service complements Vietjet’s 2025 expansion plan, which includes 12 new international routes across Asia. It also aligns with Vietnam's broader tourism push to promote emerging hubs like Danang.

🇯🇵 PAL Resumes Seasonal Manila–Sapporo Flights for Winter 2025

Philippine Airlines (PAL) is reintroducing its nonstop seasonal service from Manila to Sapporo, Japan, just in time for the winter travel surge. Flights will operate from November 24, 2025, through March 27, 2026, with thrice-weekly departures every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.

The route will be served by PAL’s Airbus A321neo, configured with 168 seats (12 in business class and 156 in economy). Travellers can expect inflight Wi-Fi, onboard entertainment, and a smooth ride to New Chitose Airport, the gateway to Hokkaido’s snow-covered landscapes.

This seasonal connection is ideal for winter enthusiasts heading to Sapporo’s ski resorts, hot springs, and cultural festivals like the Sapporo Snow Festival in February.

Expanding Japan–Philippines Aviation Links

The new Sapporo service complements PAL’s strong presence in Japan, where it already operates routes to Tokyo (Narita & Haneda), Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka. Through its Cebu hub, PAL also serves Osaka and Tokyo directly.

With Japan remaining one of the top outbound destinations for Filipino travellers—especially during winter—this route supports increased tourism, bilateral trade, and cultural exchange.

For travel agents and consolidators, this seasonal route offers a valuable selling point for premium Japan winter holiday packages.

🇨🇳 Loong Air Debuts Xi’an–Kuala Lumpur Flights

China’s Loong Air has entered the China–Malaysia aviation corridor with the launch of a new Xi’an–Kuala Lumpur route, further strengthening business and tourism ties between the two nations.

The inaugural flight recently touched down at KLIA Terminal 2, and services are scheduled three times weekly—on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays—using the Airbus A320 (174 seats).

The route enables smoother travel between northwest China and Malaysia’s capital, supporting demand from both Chinese outbound travelers and Malaysian inbound groups, including corporates, tour operators, and diaspora travelers.

Saudia and Vietnam Airlines Codeshare to Enhance Middle East Access

In a move that further boosts Asia–Middle East air access, Saudia and Vietnam Airlines have entered a new codeshare partnership. The agreement connects Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Jeddah and Riyadh, offering passengers a seamless booking experience and more flexibility across both carriers' networks.

This strategic alliance supports Saudi Vision 2030, aiming to draw 150 million international visits by enhancing connectivity from Asia to the Kingdom.

For consolidators and corporate planners, this codeshare unlocks new itinerary options for pilgrimage travellers, business executives, and diaspora passengers.

Aviation Takeaway for B2B Travel Professionals

The latest updates from Vietjet, PAL, Loong Air, and Saudia–Vietnam Airlines showcase a clear trend: airlines are racing to rebuild and expand their regional networks in response to surging travel demand across Asia.

For B2B travel agents, consolidators, and aviation professionals:

• Tap into new flight routes for value-based packaging (especially for winter & business travel)

• Re-engage clients seeking new or underserved destinations (like Sapporo, Xi’an, Danang)

• Partner with airlines offering codeshare flexibility for complex itineraries

These developments also reflect growing airline competition in price-sensitive markets, with value carriers and national flag carriers alike focusing on route diversity and connectivity.

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