Cebu Pacific has announced the launch of direct flights between Cebu and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, beginning April 7, 2025. The move directly follows Philippine Airlines’ (PAL) announcement of a similar route commencing May 2, 2025, intensifying competition for travelers between Central Visayas and Vietnam’s economic hub.
Cebu Pacific will launch its first direct connection between Cebu and Vietnam with thrice-weekly flights. The Cebu to Ho Chi Minh City service (5J-5780) operates on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, departing Cebu at 8:45 p.m. and arriving in Ho Chi Minh City at 10:55 p.m.
The return flight (5J-5781) operates on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, departing Ho Chi Minh City at 12:05 a.m. and arriving in Cebu at 4:10 a.m. All flights will be operated using an Airbus A320 aircraft.
As Vietnam continues to grow in popularity among Filipino travelers, launching a new gateway to the country via Ho Chi Minh City is an exciting step for Cebu Pacific.
Xander Lao, Cebu Pacific President & Chief Commercial Officer
Lao emphasized the airline’s aim to provide seamless travel for Cebu-based passengers and attract more international visitors to the Philippines.
To promote the new route, Cebu Pacific is offering a limited-time piso fare sale from February 20-24, 2025, for travel between April 7 and July 31, 2025. The one-way base fare excludes fees and surcharges. Passengers can utilize existing Travel Funds or other payment methods, including credit/debit cards and e-wallets.
The new route will provide travelers from Cebu with direct access to Ho Chi Minh City’s attractions, including the Cu Chi Tunnels, Ben Thanh Market, and the Saigon Central Post Office. It will also provide additional travel options to Vietnam.
This expansion by Cebu Pacific increases the airline’s international network to 26 destinations, alongside 37 domestic routes. It complements the carrier’s other flights.
Philippine Airlines had its earlier announcement of the same route last week. PAL’s service, also operating three times a week, will use Airbus A321ceo aircraft. Both airlines are clearly targeting the growing demand for travel between the Philippines and Vietnam. PAL, on their part, stated they aim to help the tourism industry to boost their Vietnamese tourist numbers.
The close timing of the announcements from both airlines suggests a competitive response in the market, likely benefiting travelers with more options and potentially lower fares.
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