In an ongoing effort to diversify international tourism markets, Da Nang’s tourism sector, along with local businesses, has been actively engaging in promotional activities and expanding market reach by establishing new flight routes. These initiatives are significantly enhancing the ease of attracting visitors to the city.

Recent data from the city’s Statistics Department reveals that in the first half of 2024, accommodation facilities in Da Nang served approximately 5.1 million visitors, marking a 25.6% increase compared to the same period in 2023. This includes 2.0 million international visitors, up 40.3% year-on-year, and 3.1 million domestic visitors, a rise of 17.7%.

The steady growth in international visitors underscores the city’s tourism sector’s dedicated efforts. Consistent promotional activities in key and target markets have been complemented by strengthened collaborations with airlines to resume pre-existing routes and introduce new ones.

AHT Investment and Exploitation JSC reports that for the summer of 2024 (March 31 to October 26), international airlines will operate an average of 100 flights daily to and from Da Nang. June is expected to be the peak month, with an average of 102 flights per day, a 2% increase over the 2023 summer average. In July 2024, flight operations are projected to increase by 7.37% compared to July 2023, averaging 95 flights per day.

Starting September 2024, Malaysia Airlines will operate the Kuala Lumpur – Da Nang route with a frequency of 7 flights per week. Recently, to enhance connectivity with neighboring countries, local tourism businesses have coordinated with relevant units to host fam trips, surveying tourism services and promoting flight routes for Indonesian travel agencies, including representatives from Citilink Airlines.

Citilink Airlines plans to commence charter flights from Jakarta to Da Nang by the end of 2024. Mr. Joseph, Asia Regional Sales Director of Citilink Airlines, highlighted the growing appeal of Da Nang and Central Vietnam for Indonesian tourists. Citilink Airlines intends to collaborate with travel companies in Da Nang and Central Vietnam to launch the Jakarta – Da Nang route in Q4 2024, initially offering 2 flights per week and increasing frequency as demand stabilizes. Additionally, Hong Kong Airlines has introduced a daily round-trip service on the Hong Kong – Da Nang route, with 7 flights per week.

Gary Zhan, Chairman of Hong Kong Airlines, noted that the new Hong Kong – Da Nang route provides more travel options between the two cities, benefiting young travelers seeking new destinations and business professionals looking to expand their ventures. This route will also extend Hong Kong Airlines’ network in Southeast Asia.

Currently, Da Nang operates 16 regular international flight routes through various airlines. Ms. Nguyen Thi Hoai An, Deputy Director of the Department of Tourism, mentioned that the city has consistently undertaken promotional trips, aiming not only to boost tourism but also to establish new flight routes.

The introduction of new flight routes to Da Nang by airlines signifies positive momentum for the city’s tourism sector. As Da Nang navigates a phase of recovery and growth, these new routes present opportunities to diversify markets.

The entry of new airlines operating existing routes and expanding flights from new markets will further diversify and deepen market reach. Recently, Hong Kong Airlines became the third airline to operate the Hong Kong – Da Nang route, contributing to attracting more visitors from key markets.

“Before COVID-19, China was a major market for Da Nang tourism. To attract visitors, promotional programs are planned in Shenzhen and Guangzhou (China) in Q3 and Q4. Additionally, the city’s tourism sector will participate in trade fairs and work with relevant businesses and units to expedite the reconnection of charter flight routes” Ms. Nguyen Thi Hoai An stated.