Class: Vietnam Airlines Business Class
Route: Sydney to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Sydney
Codes: VN786 and VN773
Aircraft: Boeing 787-9
The seat
Aboard the two-class Dreamliner, the 28 Business Class seats are arranged in a 1-2-1 herringbone configuration for direct aisle access. Although there’s no partition between seats, the bulkhead-style shell of the seat offers a feeling of privacy for solo travellers. With its leather foot stool, the seat reclines into a full-flat bed for a decent night’s sleep on the late-night departure from Ho Chi Minh City.
Inside Vietnam Airlines' Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner business-class.
The service
Given Vietnam’s reputation for friendly, hospitable people, it comes as no surprise that all the flight attendants I encounter are softly spoken, quick to smile and attentive. Champagne and fine wine refills are encouraged, as is sampling the signature cocktail menu.
Passengers receive a food and drink menu exclusively for business class passengers.
The dining
Vietnamese flavours, complemented by international favourites, make up the menu. For the main meal service, there is a choice of two appetisers and three mains; I select beef rolls wrapped in betel leaves followed by grilled salmon for supper on the homeward-bound flight. When it comes to breakfast, do not miss the airline’s signature cultural dish, pho bo, the Hanoi-style beef noodle soup. In March, VNA announced that celebrity chef Luke Nguyen will create eight new dishes for Business Class
The entertainment
A 15.4-inch touchscreen pops out of a diagonal resting position, and the Lotustar system features hundreds of options for movies, TV shows and audio, plus games, and noise-cancelling headphones are provided.
There are an eclectic mix of movies, music, radio and television programs to choose.
The lounge
As a member of SkyTeam Alliance, Vietnam Airlines gives Business Class guests access to the joint SkyTeam Lounge in Sydney. In Ho Chi Minh City, the Lotus Lounge is a large retreat of earthy tones with plenty of seating. Shower facilities are a welcome addition for those departing on overnight flights. Along with a selection of hot dishes, the buffet features a DIY pho bo station.
The glam factor
Business guests get Sky Priority for fast-track access through customs and security at certain airports.
The checklist
Pyjamas: No
Designer Amenities: Parfums Charriol
Limousine transfers: No
Celebrity chef: Luke Nguyen named Global Cuisine Ambassador in March 2018
Signature champagne: Champagne Heidsieck & Co Monopole
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