“Fly Light to Hanoi”: Connecting the Beauty of Autumn in the Capital with a Green Message from Vietnam Airlines

“Fly Light to Hanoi” applies green solutions across every stage of flight operations. (Photo: VNA)

The “Fly Light with Vietnam Airlines” campaign has now been elevated to a nationwide scale for 2025–2030, reflecting the National Flag Carrier’s long-term commitment to sustainability. While the 2024 campaign centered on protecting marine ecosystems in Con Dao, this year’s theme focuses on promoting environmental awareness and showcasing the gentle beauty of Hanoi’s autumn.

The campaign began with the signature “Fly Light to Hanoi” flight — a sustainable journey where Vietnam Airlines applied a comprehensive set of eco-friendly measures.

At the airport, the airline encouraged passengers to complete online check-in to minimize paper use and replaced printed lounge invitations for economy-class passengers with digital alternatives. For cargo, lightweight containers (ULDs) were used, and passengers were encouraged to pack lighter to reduce aircraft weight, fuel consumption, and emissions.

Nearly 80% of passengers on the “Fly Light to Hanoi” flight completed online check-in and used full biometric verification. (Photo: VNA)

Onboard, Vietnam Airlines replaced single-use styrofoam ice boxes with reusable containers, implemented waste sorting during flight, and introduced biodegradable blanket bags while encouraging passengers to bring their own cups or bottles. The airline also optimized meal planning based on consumption data to reduce food waste and plastic usage.

Passengers were introduced to small yet impactful green actions — packing light, using digital boarding passes, and carrying reusable bottles. According to Vietnam Airlines, almost 80% of travelers on this flight completed online and biometric check-in, significantly lowering weight and fuel consumption, thereby reducing CO₂ emissions.

Passengers received eco-friendly gifts as a reminder of their contribution to a greener journey. (Photo: VNA)

On the technical side, Vietnam Airlines applied sustainable aircraft maintenance practices, including dry washing aircraft, regular engine cleaning, and door seal alignment to improve fuel efficiency.

During the flight, nearly 250 passengers witnessed the symbolic partnership handover ceremony between Vietnam Airlines, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, and EPMA, marking a shared commitment to emission reduction, environmental protection, and the promotion of green lifestyles.

Passengers on “Fly Light to Hanoi” brought personal cups to reduce single-use waste. (Photo: VNA)

Mr. Đinh Văn Tuấn, Deputy CEO of Vietnam Airlines, stated:

“Fly Light to Hanoi demonstrates our continuous and consistent efforts toward sustainable development. Following the positive impact of Fly Light to Con Dao 2024, we aim to make ‘Fly Light’ an annual initiative associated with iconic destinations — a collective step toward a greener planet.”

Symbolic partnership handover of the “Fly Light with Vietnam Airlines” campaign between Vietnam Airlines, the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, and EPMA. (Photo: VNA)

Mr. Đào Xuân Hưng, Editor-in-Chief of the Agriculture and Environment Journal under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, shared:

“Fly Light to Hanoi is a prime example of corporate–community collaboration in promoting circular economy practices and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Through simple yet practical actions — like lighter luggage and less plastic waste — Vietnam Airlines and millions of passengers are helping realize Vietnam’s national green growth goals.”

Alongside the inflight campaign, Vietnam Airlines also launched a plastic collection program at cultural and tourism events within the “Touching Hanoi’s Autumn” series, co-organized with the Hanoi People’s Committee. Collection stations were placed at popular venues, where gathered plastic waste will be recycled into useful items and later donated to schools and disadvantaged children.

The flight crew ready for departure on “Fly Light to Hanoi.” (Photo: VNA)

Notably, “Fly Light to Hanoi” is among the key initiatives that Vietnam Airlines plans to register for The Aviation Challenge 2025 — organized by the SkyTeam Alliance — to honor global efforts in sustainability and emission reduction.

This participation reaffirms Vietnam Airlines’ strong commitment to pioneering sustainable aviation practices and its long-term vision to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2050.