Vietnam Airlines Business Class Short-Hop Flight Review
On a chilly December 23, 2024, Vietnam Airlines' Airbus A321 aircraft, registration VN-A601, embarked on a flight from Saigon to Singapore, providing passengers with a comfortable and enjoyable journey.
The aircraft featured a 2-2 layout, offering 16 Business Class seats and 168 Economy Class seats. Business Class travelers were seated at 3A, enjoying a 45-inch seat pitch, approximately 10 inches of recline, and extendable foot and leg rests.
While the Vietnam Airlines A321 does not have personal seatback screens for in-flight entertainment, passengers, including Business Class travelers, can access entertainment via a "Scan & Play" system. By scanning a QR code at their seat, they can stream content on their personal devices, serving as the main in-flight entertainment hub on the A321.
Business Class passengers were treated to an exceptional hospitality experience, with Minh Chau being particularly remarkable. The flight's meal service was an Oriental Fish selection with a casserole of fried rice, peas, carrots, and a seafood medley of fish and prawns. The meal was complemented by tender eggplant, a thick savory sauce, a fresh garden salad, a fruit bowl for dessert, and a selection of breads with butter and jam.
Before takeoff, Business Class passengers were offered a traditional pre-flight drink, with options including alcohol or a honey-based concoction. During the flight, passengers could choose from a variety of beverages, including soft drinks, fruit juices, and alcohol. Each passenger was provided with a warm blanket on the flight.
Unfortunately, amenity kits were not offered to Business Class passengers due to the flight's short duration. However, the lavatory on the VN A321 was standard, tidy, clean, and minimalistic. Business Class passengers benefited from access to a separate lavatory.
Vietnam Airlines operates two separate lounges at Tan Son Nhat Hub, offering complimentary access to Business Class passengers, SkyTeam Alliance First/Business passengers, and LotusMiles Gold/Platinum/Million Miler members. The lounge offers food, shower facilities, and a view of the apron.
During the flight, Business Class passengers were offered an extra meal during the meal service, making the journey even more enjoyable. The flight offered an early lunch service shortly after passing 10,000 feet.
For those looking to experience Vietnam Airlines' Business Class, a round-trip package is available for approximately SGD 727. It's important to note that while the in-flight entertainment experience is digital, some Business Class flights might offer upgraded displays depending on the aircraft.
[1] ["Scan & Play" system serves as the main in-flight entertainment hub on the A321, Vietnam Airlines, 2024] [2] [Personal seatback screens not present on A321, recent passenger reports, 2024] [3] [Minimal in-flight entertainment and services due to short flight durations, customer feedback, 2024]
- For travel enthusiasts and lifestyle aficionados, news about the Scan & Play system serving as the main in-flight entertainment hub on Vietnam Airlines' Airbus A321 might be of interest, especially for those planning a trip within the near future.
- Home-and-garden enthusiasts may find the lack of amenity kits on Vietnam Airlines' Business Class for flights under a certain duration a topic worth discussing, particularly when considering travel options that offer a more complete in-flight experience.