Lion lands in HCMC

BANGKOK Thai Lion Air will commence daily flights between Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam starting 28 October.

Vietnam is a growing travel market for both inbound and outbound traffic attracting a variety of low-cost airlines keen to tap  leisure travel potential.

Lion Air’s fares on the Ho Chi Minh City route will compete head-on with Thai AirAsia, Nok Air, Thai Airways International as well as Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air.

However, Vietnam will be a challenging market for the airline given the current extremely competitive environment, but strategically Thai Lion Air needs to have a presence, according to a recent report by Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation.

The airline sets a one-way promotional fare on the Bangkok – HCMC route at THB980. Fare includes airport tax and fees, a baggage allowance of 30 kg, additional sport equipment allowance of 15 kg, seat selection and a snack on board.

Thai Air Asia sells its cheapest fare to Ho Chi Minh City at THB 2775 roundtrip. Vietnam Airlines sells at THB5350 and THAI at THB6,100.  Thai Air Asia’s fare does not include baggage, seat selection and meal service fees.

Bookings on Lion Air are now open for flights, 28 October onwards.