VietJet Air is set to launch a new international air route connecting Hanoi, Vietnam, with Prague, Czech Republic, via Almaty, Kazakhstan, beginning July 11. The new route aims to bolster tourism, business, and humanitarian connections between the three countries and reinforces Kazakhstan’s position as a key transit hub between Asia, and Europe.
The airline will operate the route twice weekly using Airbus A330 aircraft, operating under “fifth-freedom” traffic rights. This allows VietJet Air to carry passengers between Kazakhstan and the Czech Republic. The launch was officially confirmed on March 19 by the Kazakh Civil Aviation Committee, after nearly a year of discussion.
Prague Airport had previously indicated it was in talks with VietJet regarding the new service. “The possibility of launching a direct air connection between Prague and Hanoi is currently under discussion. A direct connection with Hanoi is a priority for us in the Southeast Asia region,” said Jiří Hannich, a spokesperson for Prague Airport, in late January. “Yet, due to the current negotiations, we cannot comment on their progress or the specific steps taken by individual airlines. The final decision to launch operations on this route rests entirely with the airline. As soon as we receive official confirmation from the airline, we will inform you immediately.”
The approval from Kazakhstan comes at a time of increasing volatility in global energy markets. Rising oil prices, driven by conflict in the Persian Gulf, could potentially impact the airline’s plans for the new route. The development highlights the complex interplay between geopolitical events and the aviation industry.
According to the approval from Kazakhstan, passengers will be transported not only between Prague and Hanoi but also on the Almaty leg of the journey. VietJet recently doubled its contract for new Airbus A330neo aircraft, and these planes may be deployed on the Prague route.
VietJet zdvojnásobil kontrakt na nové Airbusy A330neo, možná se ukážou i v Praze
Kazakhstan’s Civil Aviation Committee stated that the new connection is intended to enhance the country’s appeal to foreign carriers and promote tourism and business. Establishing direct flights to Hanoi has long been a priority for Prague Airport. Bamboo Airways had previously planned to launch flights from Vietnam to Prague in 2020, even selling tickets before the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted those plans. The airline ultimately only used Prague Airport for cargo flights, delivering face masks and other medical supplies.
Bamboo Airways začnou v Česku se dvěma lety týdně mezi Prahou a Hanojí
