Air Busan Resumes Direct Flights Between Busan and Hà Nội, Enhancing Tourism Connectivity and Economic Ties Between South Korea and Vietnam

Published on November 21, 2025

On December 31, 2025, Air Busan officially reinstated non-regular flights four times a week-on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays-along its direct Busan–Hà Nội route, which has been suspended since February 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Resuming this route means more convenient access to Hà Nội from Busan and further development of relations between South Korea and Vietnam in all spheres of life.

Flight Schedule and Aircraft Details for the Busan–Hà Nội Route

The direct flights from Gimhae International Airport in Busan will depart at 8:30 pm (local time), arriving at Hà Nội’s Nội Bài Airport at 11:30 pm (local time). The return flight from Hà Nội will depart at 12:40 am, arriving back in Busan at 7:05 am, with a flight time of approximately five hours. An A321neo aircraft will be used for this route, offering 232 seats, and ensuring a comfortable and efficient travel experience for passengers on both legs of the journey.

Enhancing Vietnam–South Korea Tourism Ties Through Direct Connectivity

The resumption of this direct air link between Busan and Hà Nội comes at a time when tourism between Vietnam and South Korea is steadily growing. Vietnam Airlines and Korean Air have been significant players in strengthening tourism ties between the two nations, and Air Busan’s return to the Vietnam market further enhances this connectivity. The new flights will support both leisure tourism and business travel, providing an added convenience for travelers heading to Vietnam for its cultural experiences or to engage in business ventures.

Tourism Growth: Why Hà Nội Is a Top Destination for South Korean Travelers

Hà Nội, with its rich cultural heritage, historic temples, and scenic landscapes, is a key attraction for South Korean tourists. The city’s proximity to Hạ Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, makes it even more appealing for visitors seeking to explore both the cultural and natural wonders of Vietnam. As South Korean tourists increasingly look for authentic cultural experiences, Hà Nội has become a top destination in Southeast Asia. Air Busan’s direct service to Hà Nội will enhance this influx of visitors and contribute to the country’s tourism growth.

Sa Pa’s Growing Popularity Among Korean Tourists and its Connection to Hà Nội

Sa Pa, often referred to as the “Switzerland of Vietnam,” has become increasingly popular among Korean travelers due to its mountainous beauty and rugged landscapes. The town’s picturesque terraces and cool climate offer a unique experience for those seeking an escape from the typical beach destinations. With improved transportation links between Hà Nội and Sa Pa, Air Busan’s route between Busan and Hà Nội will likely facilitate two-in-one itineraries for travelers wishing to experience both urban life in Hà Nội and the natural beauty of Sa Pa, further driving tourism flows.

Direct Flight Benefits for Local Busan Travelers

The introduction of direct flights from Busan to Hà Nội will be particularly beneficial for local residents. With no current domestic airlines offering this route, Air Busan provides a much-needed direct option for South Korean travelers in the Busan area who have traditionally relied on connecting flights via other major international hubs. This added convenience will make Vietnam a more accessible destination for local tourists and strengthen South Korea’s tourism links with Vietnam.

Impact on Vietnam’s Tourism and Economy

The return of the Busan–Hà Nội flights comes at a time when Vietnam’s tourism industry is rebounding. The direct air link between the two countries is expected to boost tourism in northern Vietnam, driving both leisure travel and business opportunities. In particular, this direct flight service enhances Hà Nội’s accessibility to a wider audience and provides a vital link to the growing South Korean tourism market. The increased flow of Korean visitors is expected to have a positive economic impact, benefitting local businesses, from tour operators to hotels, and increasing spending in local economies.

Air Busan’s Future Expansion and Growing Regional Influence

Air Busan has made it clear that its return to the Vietnamese market is just the beginning of its expansion plans. The airline intends to continue expanding its regional network to support growing travel demand and enhance connectivity between South Korea and Southeast Asia. By increasing its service to Vietnam, Air Busan hopes to position itself as a leading carrier in the regional aviation market, providing reliable and convenient flights for travelers across the region.

The Busan–Hà Nội route also serves as an example of how airlines can drive tourism growth by connecting underserved regions to popular destinations. This not only benefits travelers but also supports economic development, both in Vietnam and South Korea. As Air Busan continues to expand its network, the airline is poised to become a key player in regional tourism and cross-border connectivity.

Looking Ahead: Long-Term Impact on Vietnam’s Tourism Industry

The restarting of flights between Busan and Hà Nội should therefore lead to increased tourism flows for the carriers in the region, especially Vietnam Airlines and Air Busan, as South Korean tourists start seeking easier, more direct access to the variety of destinations that Vietnam has on offer. This will further consolidate tourism relations between both countries and ensure long-term development in aviation and the tourism economy. For Vietnam, tourism infrastructure development and increasing flight routes are vital in maintaining tourism growth momentum through 2025 and beyond.