Vietnam Airlines has teamed up with leading airline technology provider AirFi in a major technology uplift. The companies have inked a two-year deal adding AirFi’s IFE solution to equip 37 of the airline’s Airbus A321 aircraft. AirFi offers cutting-edge wireless in-flight entertainment (IFE) and a revolutionary in-seat ordering system.
Previously, these aircraft lacked any onboard IFE offering. However, introducing portable AirFi boxes will enable passengers to seamlessly stream content to their personal electronic devices.
More than just entertainment, the new system by AirFi will also facilitate in-seat ordering for hot and cold food, beverages, and duty-free items. This will replace the conventional trolley service. Notably, passengers can pay for specific duty-free goods delivered right to their doorstep post-journey.
The comprehensive integration process has already begun. The anticipated completion date is mid-October, when the system will go live. Subsequently, Vietnam Airlines will manage the technology’s logistics at its three prime airport bases: Hanoi (HAN), Saigon (SGN), and Da Nang Int’l (DAD).
This digital stride enhances the in-flight passenger experience and aligns with the airline’s broader digitalization trajectory. Aiming to be a forerunner, Vietnam Airlines has set its sights on being Vietnam’s first fully digital airline by 2025. Vietnam Airlines’ broader digitalization strategy focuses on Digital Technology, Digital Data, and Digital Culture. Reflecting this ambition, the company recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Visa, ensuring customers enjoy a convenient, secure digital experience throughout their journey.
Shedding light on this significant partnership, Mr. Pham Trung Dung, Deputy Technical Director at Vietnam Airlines, said, “We’re..introducing new products and services that will surprise and delight our passengers. AirFi’s solution promises to deliver a premium experience for travelers while generating increased revenue for the airline, which made for a compelling business case.”
Echoing the sentiment, AirFi’s CEO, Job Heimerikx, added, “We’re immensely proud to have won a contract with the flag carrier in Vietnam, Vietnam Airlines. With the addition of this carrier, AirFi now has a stronger presence in the Asian marketplace than ever before. Our unique business setup gives us strong local relevance in any market so that airlines everywhere can embrace innovative cabin digitalization and onboard sales solutions.”
Local partner Basecare Vietnam, operates AirFi Vietnam.
About AirFi
A globally recognized travel technology firm, AirFi assists airlines in delivering stellar digital entertainment, shopping experiences, and brand exposure to passengers. With its state-of-the-art portable wireless streaming technology, the company has won the trust of over 70 airline and rail operators. Their core mission is to enhance passenger experiences and boost ancillary revenues in the cabin. Learn more at www.airfi.aero.
About Vietnam Airlines
Vietnam Airlines, revered as a Skytrax four-star airline, is Vietnam’s flagship carrier. With 96 routes spanning 22 domestic and 27 international destinations, it boasts one of Asia’s youngest and most modern fleets. Driven by the vision to be acknowledged as a leading five-star Asian airline, Vietnam Airlines emphasizes high-quality services ingrained with Vietnamese