Thai AirAsia launches new route: daily flights to Hanoi from December!

Thai AirAsia launches new route: daily flights to Hanoi from December!

Recently, Thai AirAsia announced a major step towards expanding its route network. From December 1, 2025, the airline will introduce a new route between Bangkok/Don Mueang, Luang Prabang and Hanoi. This is not only a crucial step for the airline itself, but also a significant contribution to improving connectivity within ASEAN. The connection is offered daily, making it ideal for serving both business travelers and tourists.

The new route will be operated with an Airbus A320 equipped with 180 comfortable economy seats. Interestingly, this will be the first route the airline operates with so-called Fifth Freedom rights - except for its routes to Japan. This regulation allows the airline to transport passengers on an international route between two different countries. CEO Santisuk Klongchaiya has expressed optimism about the new connection, particularly due to the high demand in international tourism between Luang Prabang and Hanoi.

Flight details and planning

Flights are strategically planned to provide an easy and efficient journey. Flight FD1038 departs Bangkok/Don Mueang at 1:55 p.m., makes a stopover in Luang Prabang and arrives Hanoi at 5:15 p.m. The return flight, FD1039, departs Hanoi at 5:45 p.m., landing in Luang Prabang at 6:55 p.m. before returning to Bangkok/Don Mueang, where landing is scheduled for 9:15 p.m. This is a perfect opportunity for travelers who want to explore both Laos and Vietnam.

Additionally, Thai AirAsia currently offers three daily round trips from Bangkok/Don Mueang to Hanoi and four weekly round trips to Luang Prabang. The new route further expands the offering, giving travelers more flexibility and options. Bookings are already possible via the AirAsia MOVE platform and other sales channels.

Background of the aviation industry in the region

To better understand the context of this development, let us look at the air transport industry in the ASEAN region. The industry has undergone significant changes in recent years. While the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in massive revenue losses in 2020 and 2021, the aviation industry is now recovering with a noticeable increase in sales. A full recovery is forecast for 2024, bringing hope for airlines like Thai AirAsia.

In Thailand, air traffic grew in 2022-2025, although the numbers have not yet reached pre-pandemic levels. Air freight, on the other hand, has stagnated, posing a challenge for the industry, while Indonesia has benefited from a growing domestic market and a strong market presence of low-cost carriers (LCC). This development shows the importance of establishing new routes to meet the changing needs of travelers.

Overall, the opening of Thai AirAsia's new route between Bangkok, Luang Prabang and Hanoi shows how dynamic the aviation landscape is in the ASEAN region and how airlines are adapting their strategies to meet the diverse requirements. The anticipation of the new trips is now tangible!

For more information on these developments and more, read the articles from Traicy, AirAsia and ASEAN Insights.