Vietnam Airlines is expanding its European network with a new nonstop route between Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) and Copenhagen (CPH). Starting today, December 15, 2025, this will be the only direct flight connecting Vietnam and Denmark.
To celebrate the launch, the airline is offering instant status upgrades for travelers booking premium cabins during the first two weeks of operation. If you combine this with a status match, you could fast-track your way to top-tier Platinum status. Here is the breakdown.
Key Takeaways
- Route: Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) to Copenhagen (CPH).
- Launch Date: December 15, 2025.
- Aircraft: Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.
- Frequency: 3 flights per week.
- Launch Offer: Earn Gold or Platinum status by flying Business Class (restrictions apply).
- Strategy: Match your status before you fly to unlock higher tiers.
Route Schedule and Details
This new service connects Southeast Asia with Northern Europe without layovers. It also opens up connections to Sweden, Norway, and Finland through Vietnam Airlines’ SkyTeam partner, Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), which uses Copenhagen as a hub.
Flight Schedule (Starting Dec 15, 2025):
| Flight | Route | Departs | Arrives | Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VN39 | SGN - CPH | 22:45 | 06:00 (+1) | Mon, Wed, Fri |
| VN38 | CPH - SGN | 10:50 | 05:00 (+1) | Tue, Thu, Sat |
The flights will use the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, which features lie-flat seats in Business Class and a modern Economy cabin.

The Launch Offer: Fast Track to Status
Vietnam Airlines is running a promotion for the first flights on this route. If you buy a round-trip ticket by December 21, 2025, and travel between December 15 and December 28, 2025, you can earn instant status in the Lotusmiles program.
Here is what you get based on your cabin:
- Business Class: Receive a Lotusmiles Gold card.
- Premium Economy: Receive a Lotusmiles Titanium card.
- Economy: Earn 1,500 to 3,000 bonus qualifying miles.

The Strategy: Match First, Aim Higher
While getting Gold status for flying Business Class is a good deal, there is a way to get even more value. The promotion has a special rule: If you already hold status, you get upgraded to the next tier. This means if you utilize the Vietnam Airlines Status Match before you book or fly, you can reach the Platinum tier (SkyTeam Elite Plus) with a single trip.
How to Maximize This Offer
- Apply for a Status Match: If you have elite status with another airline, apply to match it to Lotusmiles Titanium or Gold via the Vietnam Airlines Status Match site.
- Get Approved: Secure your new Lotusmiles status before your flight.
- Book Your Ticket: Purchase a round-trip ticket on the new CPH route for travel between Dec 15-28.
- Get Upgraded:
- If you matched to Titanium → Book Premium Economy → Upgrade to Gold.
- If you matched to Gold → Book Business → Upgrade to Platinum.
Why aim for Platinum?
Lotusmiles Platinum is the highest tier. It grants you access to First Class lounges (where available), two free checked bags, priority check-in, and SkyTeam Elite Plus recognition worldwide.
Pro tip
Even if you don’t plan to fly this specific route in December, the status match is still the fastest way to get SkyTeam benefits for your 2026 travels.
Is This Worth It?
Good for:
- Travelers based in Scandinavia wanting a direct link to Vietnam.
- SkyTeam flyers looking to secure status for 2026.
- Business travelers who can take advantage of the short promotional window (Dec 15-28).
Bad for:
- Travelers who cannot fly during the specific two-week launch period (the status upgrade promo is very time-limited).
- Those looking for the absolute cheapest economy fare (the value here is in Premium/Business for the status perks).
The Boeing 787-9 is a solid aircraft for this long-haul route (approx. 11 hours). By cutting out connections in hubs like Doha, Dubai, or Bangkok, you save significant travel time.
Search Awards on the New Route
Since this is a new route, award availability might be open for early birds. Use AwardFares to check for Business and Economy seats on VN38 and VN39. As of the announcement, we see great availability in Economy and Business Class during January and February 2026 using SkyTeam programs, such as SAS EuroBonus points.
- Filter by Airline: Select Vietnam Airlines (VN).
- Check Connections: See mixed-cabin awards connecting through Copenhagen on SAS or through Ho Chi Minh City.
- Set Alerts: Get notified if award seats open up for the launch weeks.
Check availability on AwardFares →


Frequently Asked Questions
When does the new route start?
Flights begin on December 15, 2025.
What aircraft is used?
Vietnam Airlines will operate the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner on this route.
How do I get the status upgrade?
You must book a round-trip ticket by Dec 21, 2025, and travel between Dec 15 and Dec 28, 2025.
Can I match my status from another airline?
Yes. You can apply for a status match at vietnamairlines.statusmatch.com. If you match first, the launch offer can bump you to an even higher tier (e.g., Match to Gold + Fly Business = Platinum).
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