Vietnam Airlines launched its first direct Hanoi–Milan route, enhancing Vietnam–Italy ties and expanding its strategic European network.
Vietnam Airlines has officially launched its first-ever nonstop service between Hanoi and Milan, marking a new chapter in the airline’s expansion across Europe. This new route is the ninth direct link Vietnam Airlines operates to the continent, and notably, the very first direct air connection between Vietnam and Italy.
The launch ceremony took place at Milan Malpensa Airport and was graced by the presence of H.E. Võ Thị Ánh Xuân, Vice President of Vietnam, along with senior officials from the Lombardy regional government and the airport authority—highlighting the significance of this milestone in bilateral relations.
The inaugural flight, VN72, departed Milan at 12:45 PM on July 1 and landed in Hanoi at 4:35 AM the following day (local time). Earlier, flight VN73 had taken off from Hanoi at 12:45 AM, carrying 155 passengers who arrived in Milan at 7:40 AM. Onboard, Vietnam Airlines hosted a special welcome celebration, with floral tributes for the crew and personalized gifts for travelers, creating a warm and memorable first journey.
The Hanoi–Milan route will be serviced by Boeing 787 wide-body aircraft, with three round-trip flights weekly and a flight time of approximately 12 hours each way. Milan, as Italy’s second-largest economic center and a gateway to southwestern Europe, is set to become a strategic hub in Vietnam Airlines’ European network—offering streamlined access for passengers traveling between Vietnam and the broader region.
This new route is expected to significantly boost travel and trade between the two countries. In 2023, Vietnam welcomed nearly 57,000 Italian visitors—a strong post-pandemic rebound. By offering nonstop service, Vietnam Airlines eliminates the need for third-country layovers, enhancing travel efficiency and paving the way for even greater growth in Italian arrivals.
Mr. Dang Ngoc Hoa, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Vietnam Airlines, stated: “The Hanoi–Milan route doesn’t just shorten the distance between our two nations—it creates new momentum for tourism, business, and cultural exchange. Italy is one of Europe’s most promising markets, and this route is a key part of our strategy to help Vietnam reach its goal of 22 to 23 million international visitors by 2025.”
“We are extremely proud of the work that has led Vietnam Airlines to choose Milan as its new gateway to Italy and Southern Europe. This decision aligns perfectly with SEA’s strategy to enhance high-quality connectivity, with a particular focus on long-haul routes,” said Mr. Armando Brunini, CEO of SEA Milan Airports. “Malpensa is now the first Italian airport to offer a direct flight operated by the Vietnamese national carrier, which has added Italy as the third continental European country in its network. Vietnam Airlines becomes the 30th Asian airline in our international airport’s client portfolio. This achievement underscores the growing importance of the Asian market, which is now our leading non-European market by traffic volume, with over 3 million passengers and a 24% growth—driven in part by a 30% increase in direct connectivity. The Milan airports managed by SEA connect 195 destinations in 83 countries through 90 airlines.”
With this new connection, Vietnamese travelers can easily reach iconic Italian cities such as Rome, Florence, and Venice—home to some of the world’s most treasured cultural heritage. Meanwhile, Italian tourists can explore Vietnam’s renowned destinations, from Hanoi and Ha Long Bay to Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City.
More than a transportation link, the Hanoi–Milan service represents Vietnam Airlines’ mission to help expand the country’s cultural reach and international presence. Each flight is a step toward bringing Vietnam closer to the world. As global integration deepens, Vietnam Airlines continues to grow its international network—embodying a modern, dynamic Vietnam that connects with the world through sustainable, forward-looking air travel.