Hanoi: Indian airline Akasa Air on September 4 officially launched a direct route between Mumbai and Hanoi, marking its first expansion into Vietnam. The new route operates four flights a week and is the first direct Mumbai-Hanoi service operated by an Indian airline. Hanoi has become Akasa Air's seventh international destination and its second destination in Southeast Asia, after Phuket, Thailand. The launch ceremony at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai was attended by Vietnamese Ambassador to India Trinh Minh Manh and Consul General of Vietnam in Mumbai Le Quang Bien, along with Akasa Air Co-founder and Chief Commercial Officer Anand Srinivasan and Co-founder and Senior Vice President for Strategy Bhavin Joshi.

According to Vietnam News Agency, the establishment of this route signifies a significant step in Akasa Air's international growth strategy. By introducing direct flights between Mumbai and Hanoi, Akasa Air aims to enhance connectivity and foster deeper cultural and business ties between India and Vietnam. This move is expected to facilitate travel for business and leisure passengers, offering a convenient option for those traveling between the two cities.

The decision to choose Hanoi as a destination reflects Akasa Air's strategic focus on expanding its presence in Southeast Asia. By tapping into this region, the airline seeks to explore new markets and cater to the growing demand for travel between India and Southeast Asia. The introduction of the Mumbai-Hanoi route further strengthens Akasa Air's network, providing passengers with more options and flexibility in their travel plans.