Akasa Air on Thursday announced the launch of direct flights between Mumbai and Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, marking its seventh international destination and a significant push into Southeast Asia’s high-demand travel corridor.The airline will operate four weekly non-stop flights starting September 4, 2026, with bookings already open on its website, mobile apps, and leading online travel platforms. The move is expected to strengthen both tourism and business links between India and Vietnam.The expansion comes amid a sharp rise in outbound travel from India to Southeast Asia, with Vietnam emerging as a preferred short-haul destination due to its accessibility, cultural appeal, and competitive pricing. Industry data indicates growing demand for direct connectivity, particularly from metro cities, as Indian travellers increasingly opt for international leisure breaks.Akasa Air said the new route is part of its broader strategy to build a strong international network linking India with key global destinations. Hanoi, known for its historic architecture, centuries-old heritage, and globally recognised cuisine, has seen a steady surge in Indian footfall over the past few years.Anand Srinivasan, Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer of Akasa Air, said the launch underlines the airline’s focus on expanding into high-growth markets. He noted that Vietnam has become one of the most attractive destinations for Indian travellers, and direct connectivity is expected to further accelerate travel demand.The airline is positioning the route as both a leisure and business offering, tapping into increasing economic engagement and cultural exchange between the two countries. With trade ties and tourism flows on the rise, direct air links are being seen as a key enabler of bilateral growth.With the addition of Hanoi, Akasa Air continues to scale up its international footprint while offering more direct, time-saving travel options. The airline said it aims to provide a seamless flying experience, banking on its growing reputation for reliable service and competitive fares.