Vietjet Air A320 | Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) to Hanoi (HAN) | Full trip report in 4K
Terminal 1, Tan Son Nhat International Airport (IATA Code: SGN) Domestic Departures Hello from Saigon, my most beloved city in Vietnam Today I will leave Saigon (now Ho Chi Minh city) onboard A320 operated by domestic low-cost carrier of Vietjet Air My flight number VJ140 Vietjet Air check-in counters on the right Vietjet Air baggage allowance varies depending on the ticket class and route Generally, hand luggage (carry-on) is limited to 7kg, with specific dimensions (56cm x 36cm x 23cm). Checked baggage allowance varies, with Eco tickets often not including checked baggage, while Deluxe and SkyBoss tickets include 20kg and 30kg, respectively. I fly Economy, so to avoid trouble when boarding I purchased a piece of checked baggage of 20kg in advance My boarding pass with seat 31A Security checkpoint Domestic Departure Hall, Terminal 1 Tan Son Nhat is the largest airport in Vietnam Its capacity is currently being expanded, with the new Terminal 3 increasing the airport’s total capacity to 50 million passengers per year. Previously, the airport’s capacity was around 36 million passengers per year, exceeding its designed capacity of 25 million The new Terminal 3, which is the largest domestic terminal in Vietnam, has a capacity of 20 million passengers annually. The Terminal 3 serves domestic flights of the national carrier of Vietnam Airlines While Terminal 1 is dedicated domestic flights for low-cost carriers such as VietJet Air, Vietravel Airlines, Bamboo Airways.. Terminal 1 handles about 13 million passengers annually. Boarding at gate 18 Hop the bus to the plane At almost airports in Vietnam, passengers often board a bus to reach their planes Instead of boarding with PBB (Passenger Boarding Bridge) due to lack of PBBs Tan Son Nhat International Airport has an apron with 86 commercial aircraft parking positions that are available 24/7 There are plans to further expand the airport, including adding a new runway and a new terminal (T4) with increased capacity, as well as additional aircraft parking and maintenance areas. It is the largest and busiest airport in Vietnam, located in Ho Chi Minh City, approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) from the city center. It serves as a major gateway connecting Ho Chi Minh City with the world, including other continents, and is a popular stopover for flights to Southeast Asia. The airport has a long history, initially built by the French in the 1930s, and later became a significant airbase during the Vietnam War. Vietjet Air planes in striking red-yellow livery Finally, we reach our plane today It is a Airbus A320 with the registration number VNA676 VN-A676 is an Airbus A320-214 (SL) aircraft that is part of Vietjet Air’s fleet It is not associated with Vietnam Airlines (VNA), but is instead a Vietjet aircraft Vietjet took delivery of this A320 aircraft coded VN-A676 from Toulouse Vietjet’s Airbus A320 aircraft typically have a capacity of 180 passengers. This configuration is common for flights within Asia, where Vietjet primarily operates. The seats are arranged in standard configuration of 3-3 The A320 is known for its reliability, low operating costs, and a relatively wide cabin compared to other single-aisle aircraft. Viejet offers 2 category tickets: SkyBoss (equivalent to Business Class and Economy Class) My window seat 31A Vietjet’s Airbus A320 aircraft, configured with all-economy seating, typically offers a seat pitch of 28 to 29 inches. Tan Son Nhat is the base of Vietnam Airlines The seats are approximately 18 inches wide. This configuration provides a basic level of comfort for passengers while maintaining a cost-effective approach to air travel The flight time to Hanoi is about 1 hour and 50 minutes The Airbus A320 is a popular narrow-body, twin-engine airliner known for its efficiency and versatility. It was the first commercial aircraft to feature fly-by-wire controls and a glass cockpit. Introduced in 1988, it has become a mainstay for airlines worldwide, with various models and over 8,600 orders. Cabin manager (purser) announcing Launched in 1984, the A320 entered service with Air France in 1988. Manual in-flight safety demonstrations The A321 was the first stretched variant, followed by the A319 and A318. The A320neo (new engine option) was introduced later, featuring more fuel-efficient engines. The A320’s innovative technologies and efficient design have influenced subsequent aircraft designs. Taxiing The A320 family has become a cornerstone of the Airbus product line and a major player in the commercial aviation market. Advanced aerodynamics and fuel-saving technologies contribute to reduced fuel consumption and lower operational costs. The A320 family includes the A318, A319, and A321, with different fuselage lengths to meet diverse airline needs. The Airbus A320 is a narrow-body airliner with a seating capacity typically between 140 and 180 passengers. It has a range of approximately 3,300 nm (6,112 km) and a maximum takeoff weight of 77,000 kg (169,756 lbs). The aircraft is 37.57 meters long with a wingspan of 35.80 meters. Tan Son Nhat International Airport has two parallel runways. One is 3,048 meters (10,000 feet) long, and the other is 3,800 meters (12,467 feet) long. Both runways are 45 meters (148 feet) wide. Due to their close proximity, they cannot be used simultaneously for takeoff and landing. Due to the busiest airport in Vietnam, so takeoffs and landings are always dense Most aircrafts are always wait for their take off Another Vietjet Air A321 prepare for takeoff Turning on the runway Key Specifications of A320:
Capacity: Up to 180 passengers.
Range: 5,400 km (3,300 nm).
Cruise Speed: 829 km/h (448 knots). Cruising Altitude: 12,130 m (39,800 ft).
Engines: CFM56-5B4/3 or IAE V2500.
Length: 37.57 meters.
Wingspan: 35.80 meters (with Sharklets). Maximum Takeoff Weight: 77,000 kg (169,756 lbs).
Maximum Landing Weight: 66,000 kg (145,505 lbs).
Typical Operating Empty Weight: 42,300 kg (93,253 lbs). The aircraft is used for short to medium-haul flights. Takes off Vietjet Air primarily operates an all-Airbus fleet, including a significant number of A320 family aircraft. They also operate a smaller number of A330-300s for long-haul routes. As of early 2025, they were reportedly operating 115 A320 family aircraft and seven A330-300s. Vietjet has been expanding its fleet, including recent orders for more A330neos and a large order for A320 family aircraft. A320 Family:
The A320 family includes the A318, A319, A320, and A321. Leased and Owned:
Vietjet’s fleet includes both owned and leased aircraft from various lessors. Vietjet has been actively expanding its fleet to meet increasing travel demands. The A330s are used for international routes, including destinations in Australia, India, and Kazakhstan. one2Fly is a travel magazine issued by Vietjet and is a complimentary item It is distributed on both domestic and international flights operated by the airline. While inflight magazines are becoming less common due to the rise of personal devices, some airlines, like VietjetAir, still maintain this form of in-flight entertainment and information. Vietjet Air is a Vietnamese low-cost airline known for its extensive domestic and international flight network, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. Founded in 2007, it became the first privately owned airline in Vietnam to offer both domestic and international flights. Vietjet emphasizes affordable fares, a wide range of services, and a user-friendly booking system. Vietjet’s core business model revolves around providing budget-friendly air travel options, making it accessible to a wider range of travelers. Vietjet operates a large number of domestic routes within Vietnam and has expanded its reach to various international destinations, including Australia, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, and more. The airline operates a modern fleet of Airbus A320s, A321s, and A330s, with an average age of 5.5 years (as of December 31, 2023). Vietjet aims to offer a positive travel experience through its diverse range of services, including online check-in, various ticket classes, and the SkyJoy loyalty program. Vietjet has been actively expanding its international routes, including routes to Japan, South Korea, and other Asian destinations. In short, Vietjet Air is a dynamic and rapidly growing low-cost airline that has played a significant role in expanding air travel accessibility in Vietnam and the broader Asia-Pacific region. Vietjet Air offers several ticket classes: Eco (or Economy), Deluxe, and SkyBoss. SkyBoss is the highest class, offering premium services and amenities, while Eco is the most basic, focusing on affordable fares with limited inclusions. Deluxe falls in between, offering a balance of features and price. Eco (Economy):
This is Vietjet’s basic fare, often the most affordable option. It typically includes a small amount of carry-on baggage (e.g., 7kg) and a personal item, but no checked baggage. Deluxe:
This class offers a step up from Eco, often including checked baggage allowance (e.g., 20kg or 40kg depending on the route and specific fare) Priority seat selection, and potentially other perks like free meals. SkyBoss:
This is Vietjet’s premium offering. It includes priority check-in, extra baggage allowance (e.g., 30kg or 50kg plus a golf set if applicable) Access to lounges at select airports, complimentary meals and drinks on board, and more. Baggage Allowance: Eco typically has the least baggage allowance, while SkyBoss offers the most. Seat Selection: SkyBoss and Deluxe passengers often have priority or free seat selection options. Check-in: SkyBoss passengers enjoy priority check-in. Lounges: SkyBoss passengers, at certain airports, can access VIP lounges. Meals and Drinks: SkyBoss passengers typically receive complimentary meals and drinks, while Eco passengers may need to purchase them separately. Flexibility: Some ticket classes, particularly SkyBoss, may offer more flexibility for changes to flights. Beautiful sunset in the horizon Vietjet Air cabin crew uniforms are designed to reflect the airline’s youthful, innovative, and inspirational spirit. The female flight attendant uniform features a red stylized T-shirt, shorts, a plaid hat, and red shoes, with a vest added for winter. Male cabin crew wear black trousers, business shoes, and a stylish polo shirt. The uniforms are inspired by youth army cadet uniforms and combine modern and traditional styles. The female uniform includes a red T-shirt, shorts (or a vest in winter), a plaid hat, and red shoes. Accessories like bow ties, flying wings, badges, and brown belts complete the look. The male uniform features black trousers, business shoes, and a polo shirt. The uniforms were designed by European designers, drawing inspiration from youth army cadet uniforms. The uniforms aim to project a youthful, dynamic, and modern image while also being practical for cabin crew duties. Vietjet’s cabin crew uniforms have been recognized for their unique style, even earning a place among the top five airlines with the most charming cabin crew, according to a lifestyle and travel website. Vietjet Air operates a vast network of domestic and international routes, connecting Vietnam with destinations across Asia and beyond. They are expanding their reach with new routes to Australia, India, China, and beyond, with a focus on low-cost, convenient travel options. Domestic Routes: Vietjet offers extensive domestic routes, connecting major Vietnamese cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Phu Quoc with each other. International Routes: Vietjet’s international network includes destinations in: Southeast Asia: Thailand (Bangkok), Singapore, Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur), Indonesia, Philippines, Myanmar. Northeast Asia: South Korea (Seoul, Busan), Japan (Fukuoka, Osaka, Tokyo), Taiwan, Hong Kong. China: Beijing, Guangzhou, and other cities. India: Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and other cities. Australia: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth. Kazakhstan: Almaty, Astana. Vietjet is continuously expanding its route network and flight frequencies, including recent additions to China and India. They are strengthening connections within ASEAN and beyond, with a focus on hubs like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Vietjet operates as a low-cost carrier, offering competitive fares and a variety of ticket classes. Vietjet is a member of the IATA and holds the IOSA certificate, with a high technical reliability rate. Vietjet operates a modern fleet of Airbus A320s, A321s, and A330s. Vietjet is also exploring sustainable aviation fuel and other initiatives for a greener future. Descent for landing Approaching Landing Welcome to Noi Bai International Airport (IATA Code: HAN) Noi Bai is the second largest airport in Vietnam after Tan Son Nhat in Ho Chi Minh city Noi Bai International Airport has a current capacity to handle 30 million passengers per year, with two terminals, T1 and T2. Terminal 1, for domestic flights, has a capacity of 15 million passengers per year While Terminal 2, for international flights, has a capacity of 10 million passengers per year, with the potential to reach 15 million. The airport is undergoing expansion to increase its overall capacity and is expected to handle 60 million passengers by 2030 and 100 million by 2050. In 2018, the airport was already handling 28 million passengers, despite having a capacity of only 20 million. Disembarking after 1 hour + 50 minutes of flying Terminal 1 for domestic flights Domestic arrival hall, Terminal 1 Baggage Claim Area The distance between Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) and the center of Hanoi is approximately 27-30 kilometers (17-19 miles). The travel time can vary, but it typically takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach the city center by road, depending on traffic conditions. A variety of transportation options are available, including taxis, public buses, and shuttle buses.
I flown with A320 which operated by Vietjet Air carrier for the first time on the route from Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) to Hanoi. The trip was delayed for 2 hours. It is a familiar matter with low-cost carriers. The reasons vary. Maybe planes come late, technical issues, lack of planes, connecting flights….Here is my full trip report in 4K. Enjoy!
*The information of the flight:*
• Route: Ho Chi Minh city (Tan Son Nhat International Airport- SGN) – Hanoi (Noi Bai International Airport – HAN)
• Carrier: VietJet Air
• Type of Aircraft: Airbus A320
• Flight number: VJ140
• The aircraft registration code: VN-A676
• Ticket type: Economy
• Seat: 31A
• Scheduled time of departure: 2:55 PM
• Scheduled time of arrival: 5:05 PM
• Flight time: About 2 hour + 55 minutes (793 km)
• Fare: From $85.11/one-way, depend on the time of booking and additional services (seating position, checked baggage)
*Key Moments:*
0:00 Intro
0:14 Getting to & Arrival at the airport
1:12 Check-in / Baggage drop off
2:23 Security check
2:32 Domestic Departure Hall and the Airport landscape
4:43 Boarding gate 18
5:53 Hop on the bus to the plane / Close up airplanes
8:39 Get off the bus and reach the plane
10:05 In-flight
11:36 My seat 31A
13:21 Introducing A320 aircraft
14:58 In-flight safety demonstration
16:12 Taxiing
21:38 Turning on the runway
23:39 Takes off
25:44 Introduce Vietjet Air fleet
30:07 Introduce VietJet Air
35:17 VietJet Air ticket classes
42:07 Introduce Vietjet Cabin Crew Uniform
46:40 Vietjet Air routes
53:32 Descent for landing
55:29 Approaching
56:47 Landing
1:00:25 Disembarking
1:02:05 Domestic Arrival Hall
1:02:35 Baggage Claim Area / Exit Airport
*Onboard VietJet Air A320:*
-No reclining seat
-Relatively large legroom
-No plug / USB socket
-No touch screen
-No Wi-Fi on board
-No meals included
-Cabin baggage included (A maximum onboard hand carry-on baggage of 7kg)
-No checked baggage included: But I bought a piece of checked baggage of 20kg in advance)
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