Akasa, IndiGo Launch Mumbai-Hanoi Direct Flights

Indian airlines are expanding their presence in Vietnam, with Akasa Air and IndiGo set to commence direct flights from Mumbai to Hanoi. This move comes after establishing a strong foothold in Ho Chi Minh City, the country's commercial capital.

Akasa Air will start operating four weekly services on the Mumbai-Hanoi route from this week, while IndiGo will launch daily flights from October 25. The development is expected to cater to the growing number of Indian tourists visiting Vietnam, which has emerged as a significant travel destination due to its affordability and vibrant culture.

According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, the number of passengers traveling between India and Vietnam grew to 11.06 lakh in 2025, with 4.09 lakh in the last quarter alone. Hanoi, known for its centuries-old architecture, street-food culture, and rich history, is the latest destination for Indian airlines looking to tap into the increasing demand.

Until now, only VietJet and Vietnam Airlines provided direct flights between Mumbai and Hanoi. However, with Akasa Air and IndiGo entering the market, the monopoly is set to be broken. Akasa Air will operate flights on Mondays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, while IndiGo will offer daily connectivity.

The move is seen as a challenge to Vietnamese carriers, which initially dominated the India-Vietnam expansion. Indian players are rapidly closing the gap, with IndiGo's announcement coming just two days before Akasa Air's debut on the Mumbai-Hanoi route.

Aviation experts believe that the move follows a clear pattern of Indian airlines aiming to capture the surging leisure and diplomatic traffic bound for the Vietnamese capital. Hanoi has witnessed a significant rise in interest from Indian travelers, driven by a growing appetite for short-haul international getaways that offer a blend of rich heritage and affordability.

By securing the first-mover advantage among Indian carriers, Akasa Air is tapping into a market currently underserved by direct domestic capacity. However, IndiGo's daily service is expected to give a strong fight to its competitor. The development is expected to boost tourism and trade between India and Vietnam, with Hanoi emerging as a popular destination for Indian travelers.

The increasing demand for direct flights between India and Vietnam is a testament to the growing economic and cultural ties between the two countries. As Indian airlines continue to expand their presence in Vietnam, it is likely that more destinations will be added in the future, further boosting tourism and trade between the two nations.

In conclusion, the launch of direct flights from Mumbai to Hanoi by Akasa Air and IndiGo marks a significant development in the aviation sector, catering to the growing demand for travel between India and Vietnam. The move is expected to have a positive impact on tourism and trade between the two countries, with Hanoi emerging as a popular destination for Indian travelers.