Connecting Colombo and Vietnam: New Flights to Expand Tourism Opportunities

Published on December 11, 2025

Vietnam and Sri Lanka are in discussions to establish direct flights between Colombo and either Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City (HCM City), marking a significant step to enhance bilateral trade, investment, and tourism. This proposal emerged during the third meeting of the Vietnam–Sri Lanka sub-committee on joint trade, held recently by the Ministry of Industry and Trade. Both nations acknowledge the untapped potential in their economies, particularly in the areas of tourism, trade, and investment, and the introduction of direct flights aims to strengthen the growing relationship between the two countries.

Vietnam and Sri Lanka have long shared warm diplomatic relations, but both sides see the establishment of direct flights as a game-changer that could unlock new avenues for collaboration. The move is expected to boost tourism flows between the two countries while facilitating trade and investment, particularly in sectors like textiles, agriculture, and infrastructure. For the tourism sector, the introduction of direct flights is seen as a way to connect travelers more efficiently, increase convenience, and attract more visitors to both countries, particularly from key markets in Southeast Asia, South Asia, and Europe.

Direct Flights: A Gateway to Enhanced Tourism

Tourism is one of the key industries expected to benefit from the proposed direct flight route between Colombo and Vietnam’s major cities, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Both nations are known for their rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant tourist attractions. With direct flights, travel times would be significantly reduced, making it easier for tourists from Sri Lanka to explore Vietnam and vice versa.

Vietnam, known for its stunning beaches, historical sites, and cultural landmarks, is a popular destination for travelers from around the world. From the bustling streets of Hanoi, with its rich history and architecture, to the modern vibrancy of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam offers a diverse array of experiences. The addition of direct flights would provide Sri Lankans with better access to these popular destinations, enhancing the ease of travel and encouraging more people to explore the cultural and natural beauty of Vietnam.

On the other hand, Sri Lanka’s serene beaches, ancient temples, and lush landscapes have long drawn international tourists. Colombo, as the economic and cultural hub of Sri Lanka, attracts a large number of visitors. With direct flights to Colombo, Vietnamese travelers would gain quicker and more convenient access to Sri Lanka’s tourism offerings. Sri Lanka’s warm hospitality, combined with its rich heritage and stunning nature, could offer a compelling destination for Vietnamese travelers looking to explore a new and exciting part of South Asia.

Economic Opportunities and Investment

Beyond tourism, direct flights between Vietnam and Sri Lanka are expected to boost bilateral trade and investment opportunities. Both countries have recognized the potential for collaboration, especially in sectors like manufacturing, textiles, agriculture, and technology. A direct flight connection will enhance logistics, making it easier for businesses to engage in cross-border trade. The ability to transport goods more efficiently between the two nations could reduce costs and increase market access for local businesses.

Vietnam, with its rapidly developing manufacturing sector, can offer Sri Lankan businesses access to a dynamic market for goods and services. Similarly, Sri Lanka’s strategic location in the Indian Ocean makes it an ideal trade partner for Vietnam, especially in areas such as maritime transport, infrastructure development, and agriculture. The direct flights would also help to attract foreign investment to both nations by creating a more direct business connection.

Strengthening People-to-People Ties

In addition to business and tourism, direct flights would also foster stronger people-to-people ties between Vietnam and Sri Lanka. Cultural exchange programs, student exchanges, and business networking events could be enhanced with easier travel between the two countries. Both nations have a rich history of cultural exchange, and the introduction of direct flights could further promote mutual understanding and collaboration. This could lead to greater collaboration in education, arts, and sports, creating long-term benefits for both countries.

Vietnamese and Sri Lankan communities would also be able to reconnect more easily, fostering stronger ties for expatriates, families, and those with cultural or business interests in both countries. For tourism, this could translate into an increase in travel for festivals, business conferences, and family reunions, all contributing to the local economies of both nations.

A Strategic Move for Southeast Asia and South Asia

The potential introduction of direct flights between Colombo and Vietnam is not just a benefit for the two countries but also for the broader Southeast Asia and South Asia regions. The more efficient connection between the two countries will likely encourage further collaboration with other nations in these regions, particularly in areas like tourism, trade, and investment.

The addition of these flights will strengthen the aviation links in Southeast Asia and South Asia, enhancing connectivity between major cities and encouraging tourists from Europe, Asia, and the Middle East to consider these destinations as part of multi-country itineraries. Given Sri Lanka’s proximity to the Middle East and Vietnam’s access to Southeast Asia, direct flights would also contribute to a more connected tourism circuit in these regions.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the Direct Flight Proposal?

Although the discussions regarding the direct flight routes are still in the planning stages, both Vietnam and Sri Lanka are committed to advancing this proposal. If implemented, the new route would significantly reduce travel time between the two countries, making it more feasible for tourists to explore both nations and for businesses to engage in smoother cross-border operations.

As travel and tourism continue to recover in the post-pandemic world, such initiatives between countries could play a critical role in revitalizing the tourism industry and stimulating economic growth. The introduction of direct flights between Colombo and Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City would further cement the relationship between Vietnam and Sri Lanka, benefiting both nations for years to come.

Conclusion: A Bright Future for Vietnam-Sri Lanka Tourism and Trade

The proposed direct flight route between Colombo and Vietnam’s major cities marks a promising future for tourism, trade, and cultural exchange. With enhanced connectivity, travelers from both countries will find it easier to explore the rich offerings of each destination, while businesses will benefit from a more efficient trade route. As the two countries work together to implement this initiative, the broader Southeast Asia and South Asia regions will undoubtedly benefit from the strengthened ties between these two nations.