Vietnam Airlines aims to better tap Russian market                                      The national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines is working towards overcoming the challenges left behind from 2014, which was one of the most difficult years for the aviation and tourism industry operating in Russia.  According to representative of Vietnam Airlines in Russia, the country’s aviation market saw a significant drop of 20 percent compared to 2013, with many tourism companies and airlines’ ticket dealers went bankrupt due to low turnovers and fierce competition. In that context, Vietnam airlines in 2014 had to reduce the number of flights to Russia from seven flights per week to five. The average turnover reached only 80 percent of its expectation, while proceeds from ticket sales agents also decreased greatly. Nguyen Huu Tung, branch manger of Vietnam Airlines in Russia said 2015 will continue to be a difficult year for the business. Therefore, the Airline has decided to cancel the Russia – Nha Trang route from February to the end of October while maintaining the number of flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh city. In 2015, Vietnam Airlines will complete its two years project, elevating its position to a four-star airline from a three-star one.  The carrier will also put into operation new aircrafts, including 6 Boeing 787 and 4 Airbus A350, he said, adding that Vietnam Airlines is also remodelling its brand awareness scheme, from changing uniforms, to advertisement, to deliver a more high-class service. Despites the challenges in the Russian market in 2015, Vietnam Airlines in Russia is determined to maintain its goals of effective operation, improved service quality and sustainable growth.-VNA