Vietjet has launched two direct flight routes from Ho Chi Minh City to Melbourne and Sydney, with another direct route to Brisbane expected to commence operations in June.

The airline will operate the new routes on its A330 aircraft, with each route operating three return flights per week.

“The first two routes connecting Ho Chi Minh City to Melbourne and Sydney have proved Vietjet’s strong commitment to provide multiple services for Australians to explore Vietnam and other Asian destinations,” said Michael Hickey, Chief Operations Officer, Vietjet. “Our inaugural flights have seen a full flight capacity both ways, and we are thankful for the great responses from our passengers, partners and the governments of the two countries for making Vietjet’s new milestone memorable.”

Following the launch of the Melbourne service, the airline celebrated with a “vibrant dance performance” at Melbourne Airport.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Vietjet to Sydney Airport,” said Geoff Culbert, Chief Executive Officer, Sydney Airport, “as the airline will be providing a great low-cost option to this sought-after destination. Vietjet’s extensive domestic network will also deliver greater choice for passengers wanting to explore other cities across Vietnam.

“As Australia marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations with Vietnam, it’s fitting that our 50th airline is a Vietnamese carrier,” added Culbert.