These targets were announced by the airlines’ General Director Pham Ngoc Minh at a press briefing in Hanoi on January 8.

Minh warned that 2009 will be a particularly difficult year for the aviation transportation market due to a decline in the number of passengers and fiercer competition with its rivals. However, Vietnam Airlines will work harder to avoid any financial losses.

Throughout 2009, the firm will continue to improve its personnel training programme, purchase new planes and provide better services.
Regarding ticket prices, Minh said his firm will offer fares based on customers’ incomes, as well as fares to allow low income earners to fly with Vietnam Airlines.

Last year, Vietnam Airlines faced difficulties caused by a hike in fuel prices, which lasted until the end of the third quarter. During the first half of 2008, the company posted a loss of VND83 billion (US$4.8 million). However, it went on to record annual profits of 240 billion (US$14.1 million).

The carrier conducted 67,200 safe flights, carrying over 8.8 million passengers and gaining 53.9 percent of the market share.