On March 9, 2025, General Secretary To Lam attended the announcement ceremony for the new direct flight route from Ho Chi Minh City to Denpasar, Bali, scheduled to begin operations in June 2025. This initiative, organized by Vietnam Airlines, marks the second route connecting Vietnam and Indonesia and increases the total number of weekly flights between the two nations to 14.
During the ceremony, which took place as part of To Lam's state visit to Indonesia and official discussions at the ASEAN Secretariat, prominent officials gathered to discuss the significance of this new route. Among those present were Nguyen Van Nen, Ho Chi Minh City’s Party Secretary; Le Hoai Trung, Central Party Secretary; and Bui Thanh Son, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Indonesian Ambassador to Vietnam Denny Abdi expressed appreciation for the renewed direct flights by Vietnam Airlines, emphasizing how they would facilitate increased tourist traffic between the two countries. "This connection will not only boost the number of bilateral tourists but will also open up more opportunities for collaboration across different sectors," Abdi stated, underscoring Ho Chi Minh City’s role as Vietnam's economic hub and Denpasar’s popularity as a favored destination for international visitors.
To Lam highlighted Vietnam Airlines’ commitment to the route's future development, aiming to expand collaboration with airlines and partners within the Indonesian market. "Vietnam Airlines will plan to increase the frequency of flights and improve service quality at all touchpoints to accommodate growing passenger demand," he asserted.
The ceremony also featured the signing of memorandums of understandings (MOUs) between Vietnam Airlines and the Indonesian Travel Association (ASTINDO), as well as between Saigontourist Group and Indonesia’s Golden Rama Tourism Company. These agreements aim to strengthen collaborative efforts and increase tourism exchanges.
Starting June 1, 2025, Vietnam Airlines will operate four round-trip flights per week on this new direct route, scheduled on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. From July 2025, this service will expand to seven round-trip flights weekly, using Airbus A321 aircraft known for their comfort and convenience.
The announcement arrives amid growing interest from both countries, with total air travel volume between Vietnam and Indonesia surpassing 800,000 passengers in 2024, reflecting a notable increase of 61% compared to 2019. This growth positions Indonesia as one of the largest travel markets within Southeast Asia, appealing to travelers drawn by its rich culture and natural beauty.
Vietnam Airlines continues to assert its role as the national carrier, actively working to expand its route network and bolster connections between Vietnam and the world. The establishment of this direct route to Bali is indicative of broader efforts to facilitate travel and fortify economic ties between Vietnam and Indonesia, particularly with key neighbors within the region. The decision to strengthen transportation links is seen as part of Laos’ consistent foreign policy, which values independence, cooperation, and development.
Further developments and services, including cultural exchanges and tourism promotions, are expected to emerge from this growing partnership. Both nations are eager to capitalize on this new venture, with the expectation it will lead to prosperous economic and social interactions across diverse industries.
The commitment to the direct route is anticipated to make traveling between these two vibrant destinations more accessible for tourists from both countries, enriching cultural experiences and fostering bilateral relations.