The Skytrax rating is based on comprehensive evaluation programmes conducted across Vietnam Airlines services, including 1,840 onground and inflight service criteria – an increase of 214 criteria compared to 2018. Vietnam Airlines met or exceeded a 4-star rating in 85 per cent of criteria, based on a quality scale from 1 to 5 stars. Areas which obtained particularly high ratings included: arrivals, ticket counters, lounges and website (airport services), cabin safety, tax-free sales, onboard catering and reading materials (onboard product and service).

This is the fourth consecutive year that Vietnam Airlines has achieved this accolade as the airline continues to deliver an outstanding flying experience for all its customers. (Photo: VTV)

Skytrax’s assessment also reveals that Vietnam Airlines areas rated 4.5 – 5 star have increased by 16 per cent compared to 2016, when Vietnam Airlines first received the four-star certification. Achieving a Skytrax 4-star international rating places Vietnam Airlines in esteemed company alongside many of the world’s premium airlines, including Air France, British Airways, Emirates and Korean Air.

In its quest for excellence, Vietnam Airlines continues to take great strides in further enhancing seamless customer travel experiences both on the ground and inflight. It is the first airline in Vietnam to implement telephone check-in, along with existing services including in-town check-in, kiosk check-in and via website. Additionally, the newly-launched Meet and Greet service offers exceptional benefits to passengers who need special assistance at the airport.

The carrier has received its wide-body fleet order of 14 Airbus A350s and will take delivery of three Boeing 787-10s in 2019, while continuing to upgrade its narrow-body fleet with 20 Airbus A321neos scheduled for delivery by the end of 2020. This marks another milestone in the national flag carrier's fleet development and expansion programme as it moves towards Skytrax 5-star status.

Highlights from the Vietnam Airlines inflight experience can be seen across various service aspects. Passengers can enjoy innovative luxurious upgrades such as the expanded entertainment systems on Airbus A350s and Boeing B787s, and a wider selection of inflight meals on both domestic and international flights. Future product enhancement includes blankets and linens on Business class long haul routes.

Skytrax’s assessment reveals that Vietnam Airlines areas rated 4.5 – 5 star have increased by 16 per cent compared to 2016. (Photo: VTV)

Vietnamese cultural touchpoints are also greatly embedded in the products and services. The airline has put its Vietnamese roots and background at the very core of the brand in terms of image, hospitality, inspiration, creativity and innovation, delivering a relaxing and professional flying experience whether travelling for business or pleasure. The airline’s commitment to promoting the richness of Vietnamese culture to foreign travellers can be seen in the “Four seasons of fruit” programme that serves distinctive seasonal fruit inflight, and the authentic Vietnamese delicacies created for Business Class passengers by Vietnam Airlines’ Cuisine Ambassador Luke Nguyen.

Fueled by its ambition to become a digital airline, Vietnam Airlines has partnered with leading technology providers to introduce a number of advanced solutions such as improved flight procedures, a mobile app, wayfinding map and Wi-fi on board, which will equip the airline to address the fast-changing air travel landscape.

Vietnam Airlines is planning on reducing its use of plastics and is presently investing in research to find suitable eco-friendly alternatives. This is an extension of Vietnam Airlines’ pioneering environmental efforts and a testament to the airline’s commitment to leading effective change towards sustainability.

Vietnam Airlines attaches great importance to the improvement of service through extensive training. Key investment in highly specialized training for staff and cabin crew, human resource management and operational performance will provide unparalleled opportunities for Vietnam Airlines to establish itself as one of the leading airlines in Asia-Pacific.