Vietnam Airlines Now Competes With EVA Air and China Airlines on Hanoi–Taipei Route While Challenging ANA, JAL, Korean Air, Asiana and More Across Northeast Asia With Massive New Flight Routes Expansion: Full Story Here

Written By: Tuhin Sarkar

Tuhin Sarkar

Tuhin Sarkar is a Senior Journalist at Travel and Tour World with more than 10 years of experience in travel and tourism journalism. A post-graduate in Journalism and Mass Communication from Jadavpur University, he combines strong research, industry knowledge and storytelling expertise to produce engaging, insightful and impactful travel news and fascinating feature stories.

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July 12, 2026 2:19 PM

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Vietnam Airlines now competes directly with EVA Air and China Airlines on the Hanoi–Taipei route, while simultaneously challenging ANA, JAL, Korean Air, Asiana and more carriers across Northeast Asia with a massive new flight routes expansion. As a result, the airline is strengthening its regional presence and offering passengers greater flexibility. Moreover, the expanded schedule connects Hanoi and Da Nang with key destinations including Taipei, Osaka, Tokyo and Seoul, supporting tourism, business travel and trade. Consequently, the move intensifies airline competition, boosts connectivity and positions Vietnam Airlines for stronger long-term growth across one of Asia’s most competitive aviation markets.

Vietnam Airlines is expanding its Northeast Asia network with more flights from Hanoi and Da Nang to Taipei, Osaka, Tokyo and Seoul. The move places the carrier in stronger competition with leading regional airlines, including EVA Air, China Airlines, Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, All Nippon Airways (ANA), Japan Airlines (JAL), VietJet Air, Jeju Air, Jin Air and T’way Air, as demand for travel across East Asia continues to grow.

Vietnam Airlines Strengthens Its Position Across Northeast Asia

Vietnam Airlines is significantly increasing capacity on several of its busiest Northeast Asian routes, reinforcing its presence in Taiwan, Japan and South Korea through additional frequencies from Hanoi and Da Nang. The expansion reflects sustained passenger demand for leisure, business and visiting friends and relatives travel, while enabling the national carrier to improve connectivity during the upcoming winter schedule.

From Hanoi, the airline will increase flights to Taipei from seven to 11 weekly services and raise Osaka frequencies from seven to 11 weekly flights between 26 October and 30 November before introducing twice-daily operations from 1 December. From Da Nang, services to Seoul Incheon have already increased to 14 weekly flights, while Tokyo Narita and Osaka Kansai have expanded to 11 and five weekly services respectively.

Vietnam Airlines is significantly expanding its Northeast Asia operations by introducing additional flights from its two key hubs, Hanoi and Da Nang, as demand for regional travel continues to grow. The airline’s latest schedule enhancements focus on some of Asia’s busiest international markets, offering passengers more flexibility while reinforcing Vietnam’s position as an increasingly important aviation gateway.

The expanded network includes higher frequencies to Taiwan, Japan and South Korea, three of Vietnam’s strongest international aviation markets. The move reflects the carrier’s broader strategy to increase connectivity, improve customer choice and support the continued recovery and long-term growth of tourism and business travel across the region.

More Flights From Hanoi Improve Links With Taiwan and Japan

Vietnam Airlines will substantially increase services from Hanoi to Taipei, responding to consistent passenger demand between Vietnam and Taiwan. The route, which currently operates seven weekly flights, will expand to 11 weekly services, providing travellers with greater scheduling flexibility and improved travel options throughout the week.

The airline is also strengthening its Hanoi–Osaka operation by increasing frequencies from seven to 11 weekly flights between 26 October and 30 November. Beginning on 1 December, the service will be upgraded further to twice-daily operations, creating one of the strongest links between northern Vietnam and Japan’s Kansai region.

Da Nang Receives Significant International Flight Growth

Central Vietnam is also set to benefit from a substantial increase in international connectivity as Vietnam Airlines expands services from Da Nang. The city has become an increasingly popular destination for both leisure and business travellers, making additional capacity an important step in supporting sustained tourism growth.

Flights between Da Nang and Seoul Incheon have already increased to 14 weekly services, effectively providing passengers with two flights every day. The higher frequency strengthens one of Vietnam’s busiest international routes while offering more convenient departure times for tourists, corporate travellers and those visiting family and friends.

Tokyo and Osaka Services From Da Nang Continue to Expand

Japan remains one of Vietnam Airlines’ most important overseas markets, and the airline is reinforcing this position by increasing services from Da Nang to major Japanese cities. Flights to Tokyo Narita have risen to 11 weekly services, offering passengers more travel choices while improving onward connections within Japan.

The airline has also expanded flights between Da Nang and Osaka Kansai to five weekly services. Although operating at a lower frequency than other Japanese routes, the increase represents another step in broadening international access to central Vietnam and supporting growing travel demand between the two countries.

Rising Demand Continues to Drive Capacity Growth

The latest expansion reflects strong passenger demand across Northeast Asia, where travel has continued to recover steadily. Business travel, tourism, education and family visits have all contributed to increasing passenger numbers, encouraging airlines to restore and expand international schedules.

Vietnam Airlines has been gradually rebuilding its international network while carefully matching capacity with market demand. Increasing flight frequencies allows the carrier to improve connectivity without immediately launching entirely new destinations, making efficient use of aircraft while responding to changing travel patterns.

Tourism Industry Expected to Benefit From Additional Services

The additional flights are expected to deliver important benefits for Vietnam’s tourism sector. Easier access from Japan, South Korea and Taiwan can encourage higher visitor numbers, longer stays and greater spending across hotels, restaurants, attractions and local businesses.

Da Nang is likely to be among the biggest beneficiaries due to its growing popularity as a coastal tourism destination. Increased international flights provide visitors with more direct travel options while reducing dependence on connecting services through other Vietnamese airports.

Business Travel Gains From Greater Schedule Flexibility

Corporate travellers are also expected to benefit from the expanded schedules, particularly on routes linking Vietnam with major commercial centres including Taipei, Osaka, Tokyo and Seoul. More frequent departures allow businesses to plan shorter trips while offering greater flexibility when arranging meetings and regional travel.

The increase to twice-daily flights between Hanoi and Osaka from December represents a particularly important improvement for business passengers. Morning and evening departures create more convenient itineraries while supporting stronger economic cooperation between Vietnam and Japan.

Stronger Regional Aviation Network Supports Economic Growth

Improved air connectivity plays an increasingly important role in supporting international trade, investment and tourism. Additional flight frequencies strengthen relationships between Vietnam and some of Asia’s largest economies, making travel easier for companies, investors and government delegations.

The expanded services also enhance Vietnam’s role within the wider Asia-Pacific aviation network. As airlines continue rebuilding international capacity, stronger connectivity helps airports attract more passengers while supporting long-term economic development across multiple sectors.

Hanoi and Da Nang Continue to Strengthen Their International Roles

Hanoi remains Vietnam Airlines’ principal international gateway in northern Vietnam, serving numerous destinations across Asia and beyond. The latest frequency increases further strengthen the capital’s position as an important hub for travellers connecting between Vietnam and Northeast Asia.

Meanwhile, Da Nang continues to establish itself as one of Vietnam’s leading international aviation centres. Growing demand for direct international services has encouraged airlines to increase capacity, helping the city compete more effectively as both a tourism destination and a regional business centre.

Outlook for Vietnam Airlines’ Northeast Asia Operations

The additional flights demonstrate Vietnam Airlines’ confidence in the continued strength of regional travel demand. Rather than focusing solely on network expansion through new destinations, the airline is investing in increased frequencies on established routes where passenger demand remains consistently strong.

As the winter travel season approaches, higher capacity is expected to improve travel options for holidaymakers, business travellers and visiting friends and relatives. The expanded schedules also position Vietnam Airlines to accommodate future growth while maintaining its role as Vietnam’s national carrier and one of Southeast Asia’s leading international airlines.

EVA Air Competes Strongly on the Hanoi–Taipei Market

Taiwan’s EVA Air remains one of Vietnam Airlines’ strongest competitors on the Hanoi–Taipei route, serving one of the busiest air corridors between Vietnam and Taiwan. The airline has built a strong reputation for premium service and extensive onward connections through Taipei, attracting both business travellers and passengers connecting to North America and other Asian destinations.

Vietnam Airlines’ decision to increase frequencies provides passengers with greater scheduling flexibility while strengthening its ability to compete against EVA Air’s established presence. More departures also improve connectivity within Vietnam, making Hanoi a more attractive gateway for international travellers.

China Airlines Continues to Challenge Vietnam Airlines on Taiwan Services

Taiwan’s flag carrier China Airlines also operates extensively between Vietnam and Taipei, making the route one of the most competitive international sectors in the region. The airline benefits from a loyal customer base, a comprehensive international network and strong corporate travel demand linking Taiwan with Vietnam’s manufacturing and technology sectors.

By expanding services to 11 weekly flights, Vietnam Airlines is increasing its market presence without introducing a new destination. The additional capacity gives passengers more departure options while strengthening competition on fares, schedules and customer convenience.

VietJet Air Adds Low-Cost Competition Across Multiple Routes

VietJet Air represents Vietnam Airlines’ largest domestic competitor across several Northeast Asian markets, operating international services to Taiwan, Japan and South Korea with a low-cost business model. Its competitive pricing continues to attract leisure travellers, younger passengers and price-sensitive customers seeking affordable international travel.

Vietnam Airlines differentiates itself through its full-service product, including baggage allowance, complimentary meals and premium cabin options. Nevertheless, the increase in flight frequencies demonstrates the carrier’s intention to remain highly competitive despite growing low-cost airline expansion.

Korean Air Maintains a Powerful Presence Between Vietnam and South Korea

South Korea’s flag carrier Korean Air remains one of the dominant airlines serving Vietnam, particularly on routes connecting Seoul Incheon with Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang. The airline benefits from extensive long-haul connections via Seoul, making it a preferred option for travellers continuing to North America, Europe and other Asian destinations.

Vietnam Airlines’ expansion to 14 weekly flights between Da Nang and Seoul Incheon strengthens its position on one of Asia’s busiest leisure travel markets. The additional services provide passengers with increased flexibility while improving the airline’s competitiveness against Korean Air.

Asiana Airlines Continues to Compete Before Integration

Asiana Airlines continues to operate services between South Korea and Vietnam, maintaining competition despite its ongoing integration into Korean Air following the merger process. The carrier has traditionally attracted both leisure and corporate travellers with its established network and service standards.

Although industry consolidation may reshape competition over time, Vietnam Airlines continues strengthening its own schedule to capture growing demand. Higher frequencies enable the airline to compete more effectively regardless of future structural changes within the South Korean aviation market.

Jeju Air Expands Budget Competition on South Korean Routes

South Korea’s largest low-cost carrier, Jeju Air, has steadily expanded services to Vietnam, particularly targeting holiday destinations such as Da Nang. Competitive fares and frequent promotional campaigns have made the airline increasingly popular among Korean tourists travelling to Vietnam’s beaches and resort cities.

Vietnam Airlines counters this competition by offering premium service levels alongside greater schedule flexibility. Increasing flights to twice daily on the Da Nang–Seoul route ensures the airline remains an attractive choice for both leisure and business passengers.

Jin Air Strengthens Low-Cost Travel Between Korea and Vietnam

Jin Air continues expanding its Vietnam operations as demand for affordable travel between the two countries grows. The airline primarily focuses on leisure passengers travelling to Vietnam’s coastal destinations, where tourism demand remains consistently strong throughout the year.

Vietnam Airlines’ larger network and premium service offering provide important competitive advantages beyond ticket pricing. Additional frequencies allow passengers greater flexibility while supporting stronger inbound tourism into central Vietnam.

T’way Air Remains an Important Competitor

Another significant South Korean low-cost carrier, T’way Air, operates multiple Vietnam routes and continues increasing its presence in Southeast Asia. The airline competes aggressively on fares while serving the expanding tourism market between South Korea and Vietnam.

Vietnam Airlines’ network strategy focuses on balancing competitive pricing with service quality and connectivity. Higher frequencies strengthen customer choice while helping maintain market share against rapidly expanding budget airlines.

All Nippon Airways Supports Competition and Connectivity

Japan’s largest airline, All Nippon Airways (ANA), maintains an important presence in the Vietnam market through both direct services and partnership arrangements. Its strong domestic Japanese network provides passengers with extensive onward connections beyond Tokyo and Osaka.

Although ANA and Vietnam Airlines cooperate through selected partnerships and codeshare arrangements, they also compete for passengers travelling between Vietnam and Japan. Vietnam Airlines’ expanded Osaka services enhance its ability to capture growing demand while improving convenience for travellers.

Japan Airlines Continues to Serve Key Vietnam Routes

Japan Airlines (JAL) remains another leading competitor between Vietnam and Japan, particularly among premium and corporate travellers. The airline benefits from its extensive domestic Japanese network and international connections, making it attractive for passengers travelling beyond Japan.

The increase to twice-daily Hanoi–Osaka flights positions Vietnam Airlines more competitively within one of Asia’s most important aviation markets. More frequent departures allow travellers to select schedules that best suit business meetings, holidays and connecting journeys.

Growing Competition Benefits Passengers Across Northeast Asia

The increasing competition among full-service and low-cost airlines ultimately benefits passengers through greater flight choice, improved schedules and more competitive fares. Airlines are also investing heavily in customer experience, digital services and onboard products to attract travellers within an increasingly competitive regional market.

Vietnam Airlines’ latest expansion reflects confidence in sustained travel demand rather than short-term seasonal growth. By strengthening frequencies on proven routes, the airline is reinforcing its role as Vietnam’s national carrier while positioning itself for continued long-term expansion across Northeast Asia.

The expansion has been driven by rising demand for travel between Vietnam, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan, where tourism, business activity and family travel continue to increase. The answer from Vietnam Airlines is to deploy additional flights on proven international routes instead of relying solely on new destinations. The reason is straightforward: higher frequencies improve passenger convenience, strengthen network connectivity and allow the airline to compete more effectively with established carriers such as EVA Air, China Airlines, ANA, JAL, Korean Air and Asiana. This strategy also supports Vietnam’s tourism industry while reinforcing the airline’s position in Northeast Asia.

Travel demand between Vietnam, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan continues to grow as tourism, education, trade and investment strengthen economic ties across Northeast Asia. Airlines are responding by increasing frequencies rather than relying solely on new destinations, creating stronger connectivity and more resilient regional aviation networks.

Vietnam Airlines’ latest capacity increase reflects this broader industry trend, ensuring passengers enjoy improved flexibility while supporting tourism growth and economic cooperation throughout the region. As competition intensifies among Asia’s leading carriers, travellers are expected to benefit from better schedules, enhanced services and greater travel options in the years ahead.

Vietnam Airlines’ latest network expansion marks a significant milestone in its strategy to strengthen international connectivity across Northeast Asia. By increasing flight frequencies from Hanoi and Da Nang to Taipei, Osaka, Tokyo and Seoul, the carrier is responding to sustained market demand while positioning itself against some of the region’s most established airlines. The decision places Vietnam Airlines in direct competition with EVA Air and China Airlines on Taiwan services, while also challenging ANA, Japan Airlines, Korean Air, Asiana Airlines and several low-cost carriers operating between Vietnam, Japan and South Korea.

The enhanced schedule provides travellers with more departure choices, greater flexibility and improved connections for both leisure and business journeys. More frequent services also strengthen Vietnam’s role as an important aviation gateway, making it easier for international visitors to access the country’s major cities and tourism destinations. For business travellers, the expanded timetable supports tighter schedules and more efficient regional travel, while tourism operators are expected to benefit from stronger inbound visitor flows.

From an industry perspective, the expansion reflects a broader trend across Asia, where airlines are increasing frequencies on high-demand routes rather than focusing exclusively on launching new destinations. This approach allows carriers to maximise aircraft utilisation, improve customer convenience and defend market share against growing competition. As Northeast Asia remains one of the world’s busiest aviation regions, Vietnam Airlines’ latest investment demonstrates confidence in long-term passenger demand and reinforces its ambition to remain a leading full-service airline. Ultimately, passengers stand to benefit the most through increased competition, improved service options, stronger connectivity and a wider range of travel choices across one of Asia’s fastest-growing international aviation markets.