The seat and route
Melbourne (MEL) to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN). Seat 10A (window and bulkhead) on an Airbus A350-900 aircraft.
7 hours, 40 minutes.
Is there a loyalty scheme?
You can accumulate Lotusmiles points on flights with Vietnam Airlines, a SkyTeam Alliance member. Membership also allows you to earn and redeem miles with Air France, Virgin Atlantic, Delta Air Lines and more. Members can accrue bonus miles when using select banking, hotel and shopping services, and bonus miles can be redeemed against flights, seat upgrades and extra baggage.
Does Vietnam Airlines have a sustainability programme?
Vietnam Airlines is committed to paving the way for a sustainable future. Alongside targeting net-zero emissions by 2050, it is pioneering the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in Vietnam and is committed to in-flight plastic reduction by transitioning to biodegradable packaging.
How was the airport experience?
Being given a quick-access pass to whiz through security was a dream. There’s a priority boarding lane, and we were called to board first; however, the whole plane was invited to board shortly after. I ended up in a long line but it wasn’t stressful.
If you’re taking the same route, it’s worth noting the long walk to Gate 20, the last gate at Melbourne Airport. There are very few power points available at this end of the international terminal, so come with your devices well charged and bring a portable charger in case of delays. There are power points on the console between the Vietnam Airlines seats but you’ll need to remember your international adapter. I didn’t, but a flight attendant kindly lent me her portable charger and insisted I use it until my phone was at 100 per cent.
My bag was labelled “Priority”, so it was waiting for me by the time I arrived at the baggage carousel. I loved this service. I was transiting to the domestic terminal in Ho Chi Minh City and didn’t have any time to waste.
Is there lounge access?
Lounge access with Vietnam Airlines is included for Business Class passengers only. Other passengers flying from Melbourne can purchase access to Marhaba Lounge, located in the international departures terminal between gates 9 and 11 (take the escalator up to Level 3). Marhaba Lounge has free Wi-Fi, showers, massage chairs and a barista. Buffet dining, soft drinks and alcohol are complimentary.
How was the cabin and seat?
The Premium Economy cabin has 40 seats in a 2-4-2 formation. I was in the bulkhead at the window. The seat has an adjustable headrest and footrest and reclines 6 inches ( approx. 15 centimetres), with a spacious pitch of 36 inches (91 centimetres).
The cabin has large overhead bins for baggage but it still feels roomy. Pillows and blankets were waiting on seats when we boarded. Entertainment systems and foldaway tray tables were stowed in armrests.
There was no Wi-Fi when I travelled, but that has since changed. Passengers can now enjoy Internet service (In-Flight Connectivity) on Vietnam Airlines flights operated with Airbus A350 aircraft. There’s a free 15-minute messaging package, after which the service becomes chargeable.
How were the in-flight dining and drinks?
Wine and spirits were offered with lunch, and a warm bread roll was placed on the tray alongside a stir-fried chicken dish with rice, carrots and bamboo shoots, flavoured with lemongrass and a hint of spice. I’d describe it as a mild, tasty introduction to Vietnamese food for those who are new to it. I was also served a salmon potato salad with a creamy mustard seed dressing, a mixed nuts snack pack, fresh fruit and a square of cheesecake with a super-sweet mandarin jelly topping. Tea and coffee were offered (and accepted) regularly.
Dinner was served about two hours before the end of the flight at 5pm (1pm local time). The cabin lights flicked on, and an attendant appeared with a very welcome tray of hot towels. I chose cơm rang hải sản – fried rice with seafood and vegetables – served with a strawberry yoghurt and a warm roll.
What was the in-flight service like?
Before the flight departed, a hot towel was offered with tongs, followed by a glass of water or juice. I was also given a set of slippers in a bag. A lovely little box with an eyemask and earplugs was delivered after the first meal, two hours into the flight. Headphones are provided, but if you want high-quality sound, bring your own.
For in-flight entertainment, passengers can read The Heritage magazine, which showcases Vietnam and other Asian destinations in a mix of English and Vietnamese writing. The electronic entertainment features movies, audiobooks, TV shows, games, a kids’ channel, and access to world newspapers. Personal screens are 10.6 inches (27cm).
I started to watch a movie, but 10 minutes in, the screen went black. Audio, TV and games were also down. After trying the age-old turn-it-off-and-on-again approach, I was offered an iPad instead, which solved the issue beautifully. I chose a Vietnamese film to gain some insight into modern Vietnamese culture before I arrived.
A nice touch: high-end face lotion and moisturiser by French brand GERnétic were available in the bathroom, along with razors, combs, toothbrushes and other essentials.
The service is elegant and attentive; attendants moved quietly through the cabin at all times and were always available when needed.
Is Vietnam Airlines premium economy worth it?
The extra space alone made the flight far more enjoyable; even without the attentive service and high-quality food, I’d say it’s worth the money.
I disembarked before economy passengers, and arrived fresh and ready to begin my wellness programme at The Westin Resort & Spa Cam Ranh.
The writer travelled with support of The Westin Resort & Spa Cam Ranh, and was upgraded to Premium Economy by the airline.
