Vietnam Airlines leads the charge in eco-friendly aviation. It became the first airline from Vietnam to use sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) on European flights. Starting January 1, the airline began using a minimum 2% SAF blend on all departures from European airports. Over time, the company plans to gradually increase this blend. By 2030, it will blend 6% SAF, and by 2035, it aims to reach 20%. Moreover, by 2050, the airline expects to use 70% SAF. For flights to the UK in 2025, the airline will initially use a 2% SAF blend. It targets 10% by 2030 and 22% by 2040.
This initiative directly supports Vietnam’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. In 2024, Vietnam Airlines made history with its first SAF-powered commercial flight, VN660 from Singapore to Hanoi. While SAF is beneficial for the environment, it comes at a significantly higher cost. In fact, SAF costs up to six times more than traditional jet fuel. Consequently, the airline expects an annual operating cost increase of $4.8 million on European routes due to SAF adoption.
Alongside its sustainability efforts, Vietnam Airlines is expanding its European network. By 2025, the airline will offer nine destinations across Europe. For example, a new route from Hanoi to Milan will launch on July 1, with three weekly flights. This service will make Vietnam Airlines the first to offer nonstop flights between Vietnam and Italy. Additionally, the airline plans to add a Ho Chi Minh City-Milan route later in 2025.
Vietnam Airlines will also begin flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Munich in October 2024. Therefore, this expansion highlights the airline’s commitment to both sustainability and growth in Europe.
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