Welcoming a special flight and the 350 millionth passenger of Vietnam Airlines

Alternate Member of the Party Central Committee and Standing Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Le Hai Binh, welcomes and presents gifts to passengers on the flight

In attendance were Alternate Member of the Party Central Committee and Standing Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Le Hai Binh. Representing Hue City leaders were Standing Vice Chairman of the City People's Council Nguyen Quang Tuan; Standing Vice Chairman of the City People's Committee Nguyen Thanh Binh; and Vice Chairman of the City People's Committee Nguyen Chi Tai.

The 350 millionth passenger traveled on flight VN1541 from Hanoi to Hue, landing at 9 a.m. on July 9th, coinciding with the 65th anniversary of Vietnam’s tourism industry and celebrations for National Tourism Year 2025. Upon arrival, the aircraft was welcomed with a ceremonial water salute, an international aviation tradition reserved for special occasions.

At the ceremony, the 350 millionth passenger was awarded a Platinum-tier Lotusmiles membership card, two round-trip domestic business-class tickets, and a commemorative gift. The ten lucky passengers numbered 349,999,995 to 350,000,005 each received a round-trip domestic economy-class ticket. All passengers on the flight were presented with Vietnam Airlines-branded souvenirs, featuring Hue’s cultural identity as warm greeting from the Ancient Captial.

Lucky passengers receiving their gifts

Speaking at the event, Standing Deputy Minister Le Hai Binh emphasized that tourism is not just an economic sector but also a vital mean of connection. Similarly, aviation is more than just transport, it serves as a “cultural ambassador.” Every journey spreads cultural values, and every destination leaves an impression of a distinctive Vietnam that is friendly, safe, culturally rich, innovative and ever-evolving.

Standing Deputy Minister Le Hai Binh believes that with the collaboration of local authorities, businesses, the aviation industry, media, and the tourism community nationwide, along with open visa policies, professional management, and strong national promotion, they all will tell the story of a Vietnam with “endless beauty” to friends across the globe. He envisions a future in which Vietnam becomes a premier destination in Asia, Vietnam Airlines continues to soar far and wide, and Hue, with its own “endless beauty” of heritage, people, and nature, remains an unforgettable stop for millions of travelers.

Standing Vice Chairman of Hue City People’s Committee Nguyen Thanh Binh affirmed that welcoming the 350 millionth passenger of Vietnam Airlines event was a truly significant milestone. It was also an ideal opportunity for Hue City to promote its image and share its cultural and tourism values with international friends, thereby strengthening Hue’s position on the national and regional tourism map. The event also deepened the partnership between Hue and Vietnam Airlines - a strategic partner in tourism and socio-economic development.

Vice Chairman Binh hoped that in the near future, the continued cooperation of Vietnam Airlines would open new avenues of connection and effective flight routes and help bringing Hue closer to the world.

At the event, Vietnam Airlines, in coordination with Hue City People’s Committee, the National Authority of Tourism, and the city’s Department of Tourism, officially launched the program “Magical Hue Nights – Discover to Fall in Love”. Under this initiative, domestic and international tourists arriving in Hue on night flights with Vietnam Airlines will be eligible for special offers such as up to 80% discounts on accommodation or a complimentary first night at participating hotels. This is a joint effort between Vietnam Airlines and Hue City to stimulate tourism demand and continuously enhance the visitor experience.

* Photos from the event captured by Hue Today Online: