In a move to boost tourism and enhance ties, direct flight services connecting Kerala and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam were successfully launched from the Cochin International Airport on August 12.
Spearheaded by Vietnamese airline Vietjet, the new flight service marks a significant milestone, resulting in additional 45 flights connecting Kochi to Southeast Asian destinations, Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) said in a statement.
The launch of this new flight service, VJ1811, comes days after Vietnamese Ambassador Nguyen Thanh Hai during his meeting with Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan promised to start a direct flight service between Ho Chi Minh City and Kochi. Following this meeting, Vijayan said that the direct flight service would enhance ties between Kerala and Vietnam, boosting tourism and overall development in the state.
Vietjet Vice President (Commercial) Jay L Lingeswara, who inaugurated the direct flight service, conveyed his appreciation for the enthusiastic response from travellers of both nations. While CIAL, on the other hand, stated that the inaugural flights operated at maximum capacity owing to increasing demand for direct connectivity between Kochi and Vietnam.
According to CIAL, the flight, operational four days a week—Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays—follows a specific schedule. Departing from Ho Chi Minh City at 19:20 hours, it's slated to touch down at Cochin International Airport at 22:50 hours. The return flight, VJ1812, will take off from Kochi at 23:50 hours, arriving in Ho Chi Minh City at 06:40 hours.
"This service marks a historic milestone for CIAL as it establishes the first direct air link between Kerala and Vietnam, creating a significant avenue for business and leisure travel," CIAL added.
This move also complements CIAL's existing flight services to various Southeast Asian destinations, solidifying its position as a crucial hub for international travel. Moreover, the partnership between CIAL and Vietjet is seen as a testament to the dynamic nature of aviation and a celebration of their shared commitment to providing seamless, convenient, and reliable air travel experiences.
The new flight service has opened a gateway for travellers and fortified the bridge between two vibrant cultures and economies.
(With inputs from PTI)