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Vietjet's zero-fare sale backs new Europe, Central Asia and Maldives routes

Vietjet's zero-fare sale backs new Europe, Central Asia and Maldives routes
Aviation · 2026
Photo · Catherine Hayes for Travelmao
By Catherine Hayes Aviation Editor Oct 8, 2026 4 min read

Vietjet has unveiled a three-day fare promotion running from 8 to 10 October 2026, offering millions of Eco-class tickets from USD0 (excluding taxes and fees) and a 20% discount on Deluxe base fares. The sale coincides with the airline's aggressive international expansion, which includes new services to Prague, Czech Republic, and Almaty, Kazakhstan, as well as a forthcoming link from Ho Chi Minh City to the Maldives via Colombo, Sri Lanka.

The promotion applies across Vietjet's entire domestic and international network, with bookings available through the carrier's website and mobile app. Travel is valid from 8 October 2026 to 30 September 2027, subject to blackout dates. This is a classic low-cost carrier tactic to stimulate demand and fill seats during the shoulder season, and it gives travel agents a clear window to lock in competitive fares for their clients.

Network expansion: Europe and Central Asia

On 10 October 2026, Vietjet will launch two new routes from Hanoi: one to Almaty, Kazakhstan, and another to Prague, Czech Republic. These services mark Vietjet's entry into Central Asia and its continued push into Europe, complementing its existing long-haul operations. The Hanoi–Almaty route will operate with a frequency that supports both leisure and business travel, while the Prague service is expected to tap into the growing Vietnamese diaspora and tourism flows between Southeast Asia and Central Europe.

Later in October, the airline will add services connecting Ho Chi Minh City with Clark in the Philippines and Chiang Mai in Thailand. These additions strengthen Vietjet's position in the Asia-Pacific region, offering more point-to-point options for leisure travellers and expanding the carrier's network density in secondary cities. For travel advisors, these new routes open up fresh itinerary possibilities, particularly for multi-destination trips combining Vietnam with the Philippines or Thailand.

Maldives service via Colombo

Vietjet's new service to the Maldives, launching on 5 December 2026, will operate three times weekly, enhancing connectivity to South Asia. The routing via Colombo, Sri Lanka, is a strategic move that allows passengers from Sri Lanka to connect to the Maldives or Vietnam, while also offering a convenient option for travellers from Vietnam to reach the Indian Ocean archipelago. This route is particularly relevant for the luxury travel segment, as the Maldives remains a top-tier honeymoon and high-end leisure destination.

The airline's focus on the Maldives aligns with broader industry trends, as seen in Maldivian's recent ancillary suite launch, which aims to personalise the travel experience. Vietjet's new service will complement such efforts by providing more capacity and fare options for both leisure and business travellers.

Onboard experience and ancillary revenue

Vietjet continues to differentiate itself through its onboard product, offering a range of Vietnamese and international dishes served by its cabin crew. The airline also promotes cultural and artistic performances at 10,000 metres, a unique selling point that appeals to travellers seeking a memorable journey. For travel professionals, these elements can be highlighted when selling Vietjet, particularly for groups and incentive travel where the experience is a key factor.

The zero-fare promotion is a clear signal that Vietjet is willing to use aggressive pricing to drive load factors and market share. As the airline expands its network, it will be interesting to see how competitors respond, especially on routes where Vietjet is introducing new capacity. For agents, the key takeaway is to book early to secure the best fares, as these promotions typically sell out quickly.

Vietjet's expansion comes at a time when the aviation industry is seeing a resurgence in international travel, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region. The carrier's ability to open new routes and stimulate demand with promotional fares will be closely watched by industry analysts. With the addition of Prague, Almaty and the Maldives, Vietjet is positioning itself as a serious player in the long-haul low-cost segment, a space that has seen mixed success globally.

For travel advisors, the new routes and the promotional fares present an opportunity to offer clients competitive pricing on a growing network. The airline's commitment to enhancing the passenger experience, from culinary options to in-flight entertainment, also provides a strong selling point. As Vietjet continues to evolve, its strategy will likely influence other LCCs in the region, making it a carrier to watch in the coming months.

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