Vietnam Airlines has reported a profit over that which was earlier predicted for the first quarter, seeing revenues of VND5.9 trillion.

Revenues in the first quarter have made up for 25.8% of its 2008 yearlong plan. These figures were achieved by carrying some 2.3 million passengers in the three months to the 31st of March, 2008, reflecting a passenger increase of 14.7%.

In the same period, Vietnam Airlines reported seat occupancy rate of 78.9%. For the full year of 2007 the carrier had earlier reported a rate of 75%.

This early report shows that the carrier is currently on track to achieve its goal of a 14% increase on revenues; and this comes in spite of ever increasing fuel costs.

Vietnam Airlines’ other goal of a 12% increase on passengers for the year is also on track.

Under a government directive issued earlier this year, the airline is getting ready to launch 20% of its shares into foreign investor holdings later in the year.

This article appeared on www.etravelblackboard.com

April 28, 2008