Italy and Vietnam have taken a bold step in redefining international connectivity, as Vietnam Airlines inaugurates its first-ever direct flight linking Hanoi and Milan. This historic route not only enhances the airline’s European network but also strengthens Italy’s standing as a global transportation and tourism hub. By removing the barriers of layovers and third-country stopovers, the new service offers unprecedented convenience, positioning both nations to benefit from a surge in travel, trade, and cultural exchange.
The first nonstop flight took off from Milan Malpensa Airport at 12:45 p.m. local time on July 1, 2025, landing at Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport at 4:35 a.m. the following day. The return flight departed Hanoi at 12:45 a.m. and reached Milan at 7:40 a.m., carrying 155 passengers. Passengers on both legs of the journey received commemorative gifts, celebrating the beginning of this pivotal air corridor.
Vietnam Airlines will operate the Hanoi–Milan route three times weekly—on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays—using the Boeing 787 Dreamliner. With a flight time of approximately 12 hours, the aircraft offers travelers a smooth and efficient experience on a long-haul route previously requiring multiple transfers.
Milan as a Gateway to Europe and Beyond
Milan, Italy’s second-largest city and a major economic and cultural hub, serves as the ideal launchpad for this expansion. Its strategic location in Northern Italy gives travelers easy access to nearby tourism hotspots such as Rome, Venice, Florence, and the Italian Alps. As a center of fashion, finance, design, and gastronomy, Milan is a magnet for both leisure and business travelers.
For Vietnamese tourists, the new direct route opens the door to iconic European destinations without transit delays. Similarly, for Italian and European tourists, this direct connection makes it easier than ever to explore the vibrant landscapes, cultural heritage, and natural wonders of Vietnam, including Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, Hue, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City.
A Strategic Boost for Vietnam’s Tourism Sector
Vietnam’s tourism recovery has gained strong momentum in recent years. In 2023, the country welcomed nearly 57,000 Italian visitors—an 80% rebound compared to pre-pandemic levels. With the introduction of this nonstop flight, Vietnam aims to accelerate inbound tourism from Italy and surrounding European nations.
This service is part of Vietnam’s broader goal to attract between 22 to 24 million foreign tourists annually by 2025, as outlined by the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism (VNAT). Direct air connectivity is seen as a critical enabler in meeting these targets, particularly in high-potential markets such as Italy, France, and Germany.
Driving Trade and Cultural Exchange
Beyond tourism, the Hanoi–Milan route plays a significant role in deepening bilateral trade and economic cooperation. The availability of cargo capacity on these long-haul flights supports Vietnam’s growing export ambitions—especially in textiles, agricultural goods, seafood, and electronics.
Italy is Vietnam’s fourth-largest trading partner in the EU. According to the Italian Trade Agency (ICE), bilateral trade between the two countries surpassed €6.2 billion in 2023. With improved logistics and reduced transit times, the new air link is expected to stimulate further investment, supply chain development, and academic exchange programs.
Vietnam Airlines Eyes European Growth
The Hanoi–Milan route is the ninth direct European service operated by Vietnam Airlines. It represents a key component in the airline’s post-pandemic recovery strategy, which includes launching or reinstating 15 international routes over the next few years.
By offering more direct long-haul services, Vietnam Airlines seeks to enhance the overall travel experience, reduce travel time, and respond to rising demand for seamless international connectivity. The airline continues to upgrade its fleet, expand partnerships with European tourism boards, and improve onboard amenities to meet the expectations of today’s global traveler.
With European tourism markets rebounding strongly and Asian destinations experiencing renewed interest, the airline is leveraging its strong brand reputation to position itself as a bridge between continents. Vietnam Airlines also aims to compete effectively with major Middle Eastern and East Asian carriers that have traditionally dominated Europe-Asia travel.
A Symbol of Strategic Partnership
The launch of the Hanoi–Milan direct route is not just a commercial achievement—it symbolizes a strengthening partnership between Vietnam and Italy. Both governments have emphasized the importance of closer cultural, educational, and economic ties, and this air link is a tangible expression of those goals.
Through government support, tourism cooperation agreements, and business collaboration, Italy and Vietnam are laying the groundwork for a new era of bilateral relations. The route will serve as a foundation for joint initiatives across hospitality, trade, education, and innovation.
Conclusion
The direct Hanoi–Milan route by Vietnam Airlines is more than a convenient travel option; it is a bold strategic move that boosts Italy’s global role while solidifying Vietnam’s emergence as a key player in Southeast Asia. With three weekly flights connecting two culturally rich nations, travelers and businesses alike now benefit from improved access, reduced travel time, and greater opportunity.
As tourism surges and global demand for direct long-haul connections grows, the new Hanoi–Milan service promises to reshape how Southeast Asia connects with Europe—paving the way for deeper cooperation, shared growth, and a more interconnected future.
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