Travelers in the Asia-Pacific region are about to see a significant boost in air connectivity, as two major carriers—Vietnam Airlines and Shenzhen Airlines—roll out ambitious expansions across key routes in 2025. Both airlines are responding to surging demand and strategic opportunities, with Vietnam Airlines focusing on domestic and regional growth, while Shenzhen Airlines is making its Australian debut with a new nonstop service linking Melbourne and Shenzhen. These moves reflect broader trends in aviation recovery, infrastructure investment, and the deepening ties between Southeast Asia, China, and Australia.
Vietnam Airlines, the nation’s flag carrier, has announced a substantial increase in both domestic and international flights to meet the anticipated travel rush during Vietnam’s National Day holiday on September 2, 2025. According to SGGP, the airline plans to offer nearly 418,000 seats on domestic flights—equivalent to more than 2,100 flights—representing a 30 percent jump compared to the same period last year. The focus will be on high-demand routes connecting Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, as well as popular tourist destinations like Cam Ranh, Da Lat, and Hue.
Internationally, Vietnam Airlines is ramping up its presence on routes linking Vietnam with India, China, Thailand, and Australia. The airline will provide nearly 177,000 seats on international flights, or over 760 flights, marking an 18 percent increase from the previous year. Notably, key domestic tourism routes are already reporting a seat occupancy rate of nearly 60 percent, with forecasts predicting a continued upward trend. International flights to India, China, Thailand, and Australia are also seeing robust demand, with load factors ranging from 60 to 70 percent.
Faced with a global aircraft shortage sparked by engine recalls and manufacturer-mandated inspections, Vietnam Airlines has proactively leased additional planes to ensure it can meet the spike in travel demand. As a representative for the airline told SGGP, this move is a testament to the carrier’s commitment to maintaining reliable service during one of the country’s busiest travel periods. The proactive approach is especially significant given the logistical and supply chain challenges airlines worldwide are grappling with in 2025.
To commemorate the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and Vietnam’s National Day, Vietnam Airlines has also rolled out a special promotional campaign. Passengers who purchase domestic tickets in the Special Economy class on August 19, September 1, or September 2 will receive an e-voucher worth VND290,000 (about US$11). Those opting for Flexible Economy tickets will enjoy a discount of VND198,000 (roughly US$7.50). The promotion applies to tickets issued from August 19 to November 30, for travel between August 19, 2025, and February 28, 2026. Each booking is eligible for one e-voucher, which will be sent via email to the purchaser.
Meanwhile, Australian travelers and businesses are preparing for a new era of connectivity with China, as Shenzhen Airlines gears up to launch its first nonstop flights between Melbourne and Shenzhen on December 23, 2025. According to KarryOn, the new service will operate three times a week using A330-300 aircraft, adding more than 95,000 seats per year on the route. This direct link is expected to strengthen tourism, trade, and educational ties between Australia and the dynamic Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
Shenzhen, often dubbed China’s Silicon Valley, is a global hub for technology, electronics, and manufacturing. The city’s rapid growth and cosmopolitan flair make it a magnet for both business travelers and tourists. As Shenzhen Airlines Vice President Na Na remarked, “The new Shenzhen-Melbourne direct route marks a pivotal milestone in Shenzhen Airlines’ global strategy, serving as a vital air bridge deepening ties between the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and Victoria.” Na Na further emphasized that, “Our close collaboration with Melbourne Airport will efficiently facilitate two-way flows of trade, education and cultural exchanges, delivering a more convenient and comfortable direct service for tens of thousands of passengers.”
Melbourne Airport is no stranger to growth, having recorded its busiest July on record in 2025, with over one million international passengers—a 4 percent increase year-on-year. Domestic travel also surged by 5.4 percent, buoyed by school holidays and a robust local tourism sector. The arrival of Shenzhen Airlines will make it the airport’s 40th international airline and notably, the tenth Chinese carrier to serve Melbourne. This milestone underscores the city’s position as Australia’s premier 24/7 international gateway.
Jim Parashos, Melbourne Airport’s Chief of Aviation, highlighted the significance of this development: “Shenzhen Airlines’ decision to choose Melbourne as its first Australian destination reinforces Melbourne Airport’s position as Australia’s 24/7 international gateway. This announcement is a significant milestone in Melbourne Airport’s international growth story as we continue to bring competition and choice into the market for our passengers.” Parashos also pointed out the appeal of Shenzhen as both a leisure and business destination, noting its vibrant culture and strategic role in global trade.
To keep pace with soaring demand, Melbourne Airport is embarking on major infrastructure upgrades. In 2026, the airport plans to move its drop-off and pick-up zones into the T123 carpark, freeing up space for a much-needed expansion of the international terminal. “Next year, we’ll close our current drop off and pick up zones and move them into the T123 carpark, which will give us space in the forecourt for a much-needed expansion of our international terminal,” Parashos explained. These improvements are designed to enhance the passenger experience and accommodate the influx of new airlines and travelers.
Shenzhen Airlines itself is a formidable player in China’s aviation market, operating a fleet of more than 230 aircraft and serving around 40 million passengers annually across 90 destinations. Its entry into the Australian market is seen as a strategic move to tap into growing demand for direct flights between China and Australia, especially as both countries look to deepen economic and cultural ties post-pandemic.
The expansion efforts by both Vietnam Airlines and Shenzhen Airlines are emblematic of a broader rebound in Asia-Pacific aviation. After years of disruption due to the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing supply chain challenges, carriers are racing to add capacity, introduce new routes, and offer competitive promotions to win back travelers. The focus on seamless international connections, coupled with targeted incentives for domestic travelers, reflects a nuanced understanding of shifting market dynamics in 2025.
For travelers, business leaders, and policymakers alike, these developments signal a renewed confidence in the region’s recovery and a recognition of the pivotal role that air connectivity plays in fostering economic growth, cultural exchange, and personal adventure. As the skies get busier and airports prepare for the next wave of global travelers, the Asia-Pacific is once again proving itself as a powerhouse of mobility and opportunity.
With new routes, upgraded terminals, and enticing promotions, the coming months promise to be transformative for air travel in Vietnam, China, and Australia—setting the stage for deeper connections and bigger journeys ahead.
